As I step into the historic streets of Downtown Bozeman. The crisp, fresh air and aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the friendly chatter of local shop owners. It's a symphony of authenticity, a testament to the beauty of small businesses. In a world dominated by corporate giants and faceless transactions, there's something truly magical about immersing oneself in the unique stories and passionate endeavors that small businesses have to offer. I invite you to embark on a journey with me, as we explore the countless reasons why supporting small businesses is not just an act of economic significance but a personal endeavor that has the power to transform lives – both ours and those of the resilient entrepreneurs who pour their hearts into their craft.
What is a small business?
Let’s get on the same page with our definitions of “Small Business.” According to the Small Business Administration, a small business is defined as “an independent venture with fewer than 500 employees.”
I disagree with this definition because it fails to capture the true essence of what a small business represents in our communities. They are the lifeblood of our neighborhoods, the heartbeat of our local economies. If I were to continue using the Small Business Administration's definition then brands like Everlane, Glossier and Milk Bar would be considered a small business. I have a hard time considering them small businesses when I think about how large their existing customer bases are, how much revenue they likely earn and the partnerships they have.
If I had to define small business, it would be this. Small businesses are:
- The embodiment of passion and pride fueled by owners and employees who believe in their product or service
- Not merely defined by numbers but 30 or less employees
Here are some interesting facts about small business in the United States.
- 33.2 million small businesses in the US
- 81.7% of small businesses have no employees. That means the owner does wear many hats!
- Amex sponsors an annual Small Business Saturday after Thanksgiving to encourage consumers to support local businesses. This sponsored holiday start in 2010 and has become a must do between Black Friday and Cyber Monday. I love to go shopping in Downtown Bozeman as many small businesses have exclusive sales for walk-in customers.
- 12.9 million jobs have been created over the past 25 years thanks to Small Businesses
4 Reasons Why You Should Shop Small
1. Supporting the Local Community
When you choose to shop small, you are actively contributing to the well-being and vitality of your local community. Unlike large corporations, small businesses are deeply rooted in the neighborhoods they serve. They often source their products locally, collaborate with nearby artisans and suppliers, and reinvest a significant portion of their revenue back into the local economy. There still are “mom and pop” businesses but there is a growing number of millennials who are opening small businesses across the nation. I think it is rewarding to see a local business thriving and become a popular destination amongst the town. In Bozeman, we have quite a few of those like Jam! or Plonk. Moreover, the impact of your purchase becomes tangible, as you can witness the direct benefits it brings to the people and places around you.
2. Connecting with Owners and Employees
One of the most delightful aspects of shopping small is the opportunity to establish genuine connections with the owners and employees behind the businesses you frequent. I always appreciate seeing a familiar face when I go somewhere and I know that feeling is reciprocated as a store owner or employee. The biggest difference between small businesses and corporations is the staff’s energy. With small businesses, the dedicated staff often embody the spirit of passion and pride in their products or services. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and their commitment to customer satisfaction is unparalleled. I find their enthusiasm is because of this passion and pride but also because more is at risk. Connecting with the owners and employees also brings an opportunity to share constructive feedback. You can share how your experience has been visiting the store or using their service, what would be helpful for you as a customer, really whatever. Please remember to be kind when providing feedback! The whole point of providing it is for them to grow as a business. It can help refine their offerings and enhance their customer experiences, ensuring a continuous cycle of improvement.
3. Greater Sense of Meaningful Purchases:
When you choose to support small businesses, each purchase carries a deeper sense of meaning and purpose. This pairs closely with the first reason for supporting the local community. It's not merely a transaction; it's an intentional act that contributes to the betterment of your community. By consciously diverting your spending from large corporations to small businesses, you are taking an active stance in shaping the local economic landscape and fostering a diverse marketplace. Every dollar spent at a small business signifies your endorsement of their values, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit. It represents a conscious choice to prioritize quality, individuality, and community impact over mass-produced uniformity.
4. Discovery of New & Exciting Products
Shopping with small businesses opens the door to a world of discovery, where you can unearth hidden gems and encounter unique products that can't be found anywhere else. Unlike larger retailers, small businesses often curate their stores with a personal touch, showcasing an eclectic mix of wholesale items from beloved brands and locally sourced treasures. Stepping into a small business is an adventure in itself, as you never quite know what delightful surprises await you. To me, this is where the fun comes in. You get to stroll the store like a kid in a candy shop browsing all of the items. From handcrafted artisanal goods to one-of-a-kind creations, these businesses have an uncanny ability to captivate your senses and bring excitement through their carefully curated offerings.
Shopping with small businesses goes beyond the act of consumption. It becomes an opportunity to support your local community, connect with passionate owners and employees, and find a deeper sense of purpose in your purchases. By embracing the small business movement, you become an active participant in shaping a more vibrant, interconnected, and meaningful community for everyone. Now, get out there and support your community!