Why Aren’t We Supporting More Small Businesses?
In a world where convenience reigns, we often overlook the value that small businesses bring to our communities. The allure of big-box retailers and e-commerce giants is undeniable – quick clicks, lower prices, and endless variety at our fingertips. But in our pursuit of convenience, are we losing something valuable?
Small Businesses Are the Heartbeat of Local Communities
Take a moment to think about the local bookstore, bakery, or dry cleaner in your neighborhood. These aren’t just places to buy goods and services; they are vital threads in the fabric of your community. When you step into a small business, you’re not just another customer; you’re a neighbor, a friend, a lifeline. You’re greeted with a smile, and over time, they learn your name, your preferences, and what makes your day a little better. That personal touch is something you can’t algorithmically replicate.
Unlike large corporations, small businesses often serve as hubs of connection. They sponsor local sports teams, host community events, and create jobs for people who live nearby. The economic impact goes far beyond your transaction – every dollar spent at a small business has a multiplier effect, circulating within your community and fostering growth.
I grew up in a small business household. My dad owned a small automotive repair shop. We help thousands of people in Northeast Indiana with new tires, brakes, alignments, shocks, struts, and a whole host automotive repairs. As a family we all had a touch on the business – answering phones, sweeping up the floors, book keeping, cleaning tools, delivering cars, and helping customers in any way possible. Every point of sale mattered to our family – it’s how we paid our mortgage, put clothes on our backs, put food on the table, and helped pay the employees of the business too. This gave me such an appreciation and admiration for all small businesses.
Why It Matters More Than Ever
The reality is stark: 9 out of 10 small businesses fail. These entrepreneurs are not just chasing profits; they’re chasing dreams, often putting everything on the line to bring something unique and valuable to their town. Supporting them isn’t just a financial decision; it’s an investment in the diversity and vibrancy of your community.
Big box stores and online marketplaces make it easy to forget that there are real people behind every small business. These owners pour their hearts, souls, and savings into their shops. For them, every customer isn’t just another sale – it’s a lifeline, a vote of confidence, and a reason to keep going.
How Can We Make a Difference?
So, what can you do? It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. Start small. The next time you’re thinking of grabbing a coffee or picking up a book, choose the local café or indie bookstore instead of the chain. Explore the new boutique down the street or swing by the weekend farmer’s market. Not only will you find unique products and services, but you’ll also contribute to keeping the heart of your town beating.
Here’s a simple challenge: dedicate one Saturday each month to supporting small businesses. Get out of the house, put your phone away, and take a stroll around your town. You might be surprised at what you discover – new shops, hidden gems, and even friendships waiting to be formed. When you choose small businesses, you choose to invest in people, relationships, and the local economy.
The Future of Small Business Depends on Us
The pandemic taught us that small businesses are incredibly vulnerable. Many have shuttered, unable to compete with giants who have endless resources and online convenience. Now, more than ever, they need our support. They need us to show up, to buy that cup of coffee, to choose the small bookstore over the online retailer.
Imagine your town without those unique, quirky places – no more chats with the barista who knows your order, no more handpicked gifts from the shop down the street. Supporting small businesses ensures that our communities remain rich in character, diversity, and charm.
So, the next time you’re searching for something to do, think local. Visit that new bakery, try a small business you’ve never been to, and make it a point to keep these vital enterprises alive. After all, when small businesses thrive, we all do.
#shopsmallbusiness #smallbusinesssaturday
Ryan Stemen, MBA 