Government News

Small businesses contribute to their communities in numerous ways, from providing job opportunities to putting money into the economy through paychecks and taxes. Thriving small businesses can be a significant force in improving the lives of citizens. Local government agencies can engage with entrepreneurs to help small businesses overcome obstacles and flourish. Help small businesses in your community with these four tips.

1. Establish a small business council

In a small business council, your agency partners with local business leaders to discuss local challenges and brainstorm initiatives that can help solve them. Invite entrepreneurs from different industries—retail, construction, hospitality, service, technology and others—to meet once a month over a meal to share ideas or recent struggles. Thank these leaders for their time and help them feel a sense of camaraderie with a government promotional product, such as a Team Performance Polo or Carefree Poplin Shirt imprinted with a special small business council logo.

2. Promote a “shop local” campaign

A “shop local” campaign can be an effective way to help small businesses in your area. Some ideas for an effective campaign could include:

• Advertising: Yard signs, banners and local magazine, newspaper, radio or TV ads can help spread the word and encourage shopping at local retailers.
• Planning a community market: Give shoppers an opportunity to learn about small businesses in the area they might not know about. Do this by organizing a community market where local vendors come together.
• Going high-tech: Help business leaders launch a website or an app where customers can search for local businesses, receive discounts or earn rewards.

3. Host a hiring fair

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, 40% of small businesses reported problems hiring staff at the end of March 2022. Your agency can help local small businesses find the right team members by hosting a hiring fair at a local church, community center or school gym. The event gives business leaders the opportunity to set up tables to talk with potential employees and accept resumes. Your agency can distribute flyers or cards with services that job seekers may be interested in, including skills training or workshops. Another good idea is to offer government promotional products, like a MaxGlide® Pen or Wrist Lanyard Keychain, with your logo and website that directs them to additional resources.

4. Provide training and expertise

Do small business leaders in your community have questions or need advice? Your agency can help provide guidance or training for specific skills and topics to help their business run more smoothly. Host in-person or virtual learning sessions and workshops on a variety of topics, including:

• Tech skills, like web design or development
• Local growth opportunities
• Available community sponsorships
• Zoning or enforcement regulations

Your agency can also collect feedback from local business leaders to see what kinds of topics they’d like to learn about for future workshops.

Strengthen your local economy and help small businesses thrive

By taking entrepreneurs’ feedback, offering advice, promoting local shopping and helping businesses hire the right team members, your agency can help small businesses succeed.