Small businesses are the lifeblood of local economies and the fabric that weaves together the unique character of our communities. As we celebrate National Small Business Day, it’s important to recognize the vital role these entrepreneurs and their enterprises play in creating jobs, driving innovation, and giving our hometowns their distinct personalities.
Beyond just economic impact, small businesses foster vital connections within our neighborhoods. They are the local gathering spots where community members come together, the sponsors for our kids’ sports teams, and the donors supporting countless charitable causes improving our hometowns. Small businesses aren’t just employers and revenue generators – they are active partners invested in the wellbeing of the communities they serve.
At Penn Community Bank, we’re honored to support the local small business owners who energize our region with their passion, hard work, and commitment to our shared future. In their honor, here are five ways we can all support the small businesses that do so much for our communities:
- Shop local as often as possible for goods and services. From grabbing a coffee to hiring a contractor, make it a priority to choose small businesses first. Look for small retailers, restaurants, service providers, and more rather than defaulting to big box stores or chains. Even shifting just a portion of your spending to local small businesses can make a big impact.
- Leave positive online reviews for your favorite small businesses. Word-of-mouth is critical for small operations, so share your great experiences online by leaving reviews on sites like Yelp, Google, Facebook and more. Positive reviews help raise awareness and give props to businesses going the extra mile.
- Engage and follow your favorite small businesses on social media, then interact with their posts by liking, commenting, and sharing. This increases their visibility and allows you to stay up-to-date on special events, promotions and new offerings. A simple share goes a long way in an increasingly digital world.
- Patronize small businesses outside of your local community while traveling to support entrepreneurs everywhere. When you visit new places, look for local restaurants, shops, tours and more to infuse revenue into those communities rather than corporate chains.
- Become a vocal advocate for small businesses by sharing their importance with friends and community leaders. Attend local meetings, write elected officials, and encourage robust small business initiatives to create a supportive environment.
- Consider becoming a small business owner yourself and joining this vital economic force. With the proper planning and resources, entrepreneurs can pursue their dream of owning their own business.
By supporting our local small businesses today and every day, we’re investing in the success, spirit, and future of our communities. Thanks to all the hardworking small business owners making our hometowns vibrant places to live, work and play!
