When you support small businesses, you’re doing more than making a purchase. You’re investing in your community, helping your neighbors succeed, and keeping local character alive. From the coffee shop on the corner to the independent insurance agency downtown, small businesses are the backbone of our neighborhoods.
You don’t need to wait for Small Business Saturday or special promotions to make a difference. Supporting small businesses year-round is easier than you think, and the impact goes far beyond a single transaction.
Below are five simple ways to support the small businesses in your community every day.
DINE IN, NOT JUST TAKEOUT
Your favorite local restaurant relies on more than just food sales. When you dine in, you’re:
- ►Creating a lively atmosphere that attracts other customers
- ►Supporting servers and kitchen staff with tips and hours
- ►Giving the business a chance to showcase their full experience
- ►Building relationships with owners and staff who remember you
Takeout is convenient, and it definitely helps. But sitting down for a meal shows you value the whole experience the restaurant has created. Plus, there’s something special about being a regular at a place where they know your name.
LEAVE ONLINE REVIEWS
Online reviews are marketing gold for small businesses. A single five-star review can be the deciding factor for someone choosing between your local shop and a big-box chain. It takes just a few minutes to:
- ►Leave a Google review describing what you loved
- ►Rate them on Facebook or Yelp
- ►Share specific details (friendly service, quality products, fair prices)
Be genuine and specific. Mention the employee who went above and beyond or the product that exceeded expectations. Small business owners often read every review, and your words mean more than you know.
FOLLOW AND SHARE THEIR SOCIAL PAGES
Social media can feel overwhelming for small business owners juggling a million responsibilities. When you follow and engage with their content, you’re helping them reach more people without spending a dime on advertising. Easy ways to make a big impact:
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- ►Follow their pages on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn
- ►Like and comment on posts to boost their visibility
- ►Share their content with your network when it’s relevant
- ►Tag them when you post about your experience
You’re essentially becoming a mini-marketing team, spreading the word to friends and family who trust your recommendations. And it costs nothing but a few seconds of your time!
BOOK LOCAL SERVICES IN ADVANCE
Whether you need a haircut, car repair, or event catering, planning ahead helps small businesses manage their schedules and cash flow. Last-minute bookings can be tough for small teams to accommodate, and cancelled appointments leave gaps that are hard to fill. When you book in advance:
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- ►Small businesses can staff appropriately
- ►You get the time slot you want
- ►They can order supplies or materials with confidence
- ►You build a track record as a reliable customer
Show up on time (or give notice if you need to reschedule). Small business owners remember customers who respect their time, and that goodwill goes both ways.
CHOOSE A LOCAL INSURANCE AGENT
This one’s close to home for us: where you buy your insurance matters. When you work with a local, independent insurance agent, you’re supporting a small business owner in your community.
Independent agents aren’t corporate employees. They’re local entrepreneurs who live and work right alongside you.
They offer something the big, direct-to-consumer companies can’t: personal service from someone who knows your community. They understand local risks, building codes, weather patterns, and most importantly, what matters to you. And if a claim arises and you’re face-to-face with the stress of an unexpected situation, your independent agent is both a trusted advisor and neighbor, helping guide you through the process with clarity and comfort.
Small Actions, Big Impact
You don’t need to overhaul your entire shopping routine to support small businesses. Small, consistent actions add up. Eat lunch at the family-owned deli instead of the chain. Leave a review for the plumber who showed up on time. Recommend your independent agent to your gym buddy. Share your hairstylist’s post about their go-to products.
These simple choices keep money circulating in your community, create jobs for your neighbors, and preserve the unique character that makes your hometown special.
Ready to support a local small business that supports you?
Connect with a Badger agent near you! Our partner agents provide personalized insurance protection backed by over 135 years of experience. From auto and home to business coverage, they’ll take the time to understand your needs and find the right protection.
