When people think of small business, they might picture a cozy coffee shop or a family-owned restaurant in the heart of town. But being a small business owner is so much more than simply providing goods or services. It’s about playing an active role in the community, contributing to the local economy, and creating a place where people feel connected.
In my own journey, I’ve run restaurants and, more recently, started a landscaping business. Along the way, I’ve learned that small business owners have an incredible opportunity—and responsibility—to support and uplift their communities. Here are some ways we can all make a difference in the places we call home.
1. Creating Jobs and Boosting the Local Economy
One of the most direct ways small businesses impact their communities is by creating jobs. When I opened my own restaurants, I hired local people, from servers and cooks to managers and cleaners. My landscaping business is no different—when I need help with projects, I look for local talent.
Hiring local isn’t just convenient; it’s beneficial to everyone involved. When we provide jobs to people in the community, we’re giving them opportunities to support their families and spend money locally. This “multiplier effect” means that when we pay local employees, they, in turn, spend their earnings in town, whether at other local shops, restaurants, or events. A strong local economy helps everyone, and as small business owners, we’re in a unique position to contribute directly to that cycle.
2. Supporting Other Local Businesses
In addition to creating jobs, small business owners can support each other in ways that benefit the entire community. I’ve always believed in sourcing locally whenever possible. In the restaurant business, this meant buying fresh produce from local farmers, partnering with nearby bakeries, or using locally made products. Now, in the landscaping world, I make a point to buy supplies and materials from nearby suppliers.
This isn’t just about economics; it’s about building relationships. When local businesses work together, they create a network of support that strengthens the community as a whole. We all understand the challenges of running a small business, so why not help each other succeed? It’s incredibly rewarding to see local businesses thriving together, knowing that we’re all contributing to something greater than ourselves.
3. Giving Back Through Philanthropy and Community Events
One of the most fulfilling parts of owning a business is the chance to give back to the community that supports you. For me, being involved in community service and philanthropy has always been a priority. As a business owner, I’ve been able to support local causes and organizations that mean a lot to me, from sponsoring youth sports teams to participating in fundraisers for local charities.
Being involved with the Kiwanis Club has also been a wonderful way to give back. Local service organizations are essential to the well-being of our communities, and small businesses have the resources and visibility to make a meaningful impact. Whether it’s volunteering time, donating resources, or just showing up to support community events, small business owners can make a difference.
4. Creating a Gathering Place
Small businesses often serve as gathering spots for people in the community. In my restaurants, I saw firsthand how a shared meal could bring people together. It wasn’t just about food; it was about connection. My landscaping business aims to do something similar by creating outdoor spaces where families can gather, relax, and make memories.
Small businesses, whether they’re cafes, shops, or outdoor services, provide people with places to come together. They can become community hubs where people feel welcome, get to know their neighbors, and form friendships. These places contribute to a town’s character and make it feel like home, fostering a sense of belonging and connection.
5. Supporting Local Youth and Future Leaders
As small business owners, we have the chance to shape the future by supporting the younger generation. Many small businesses offer internships, apprenticeships, or part-time jobs that teach young people skills and give them a sense of responsibility. I’ve always enjoyed mentoring young employees, sharing lessons I’ve learned along the way, and encouraging them to pursue their dreams—whether they’re in hospitality, landscaping, or another field entirely.
By supporting youth and giving them their first work experiences, we can play a role in helping them develop confidence, work ethic, and community pride. These young people are the future leaders and business owners of our community, and investing in them is one of the best things we can do.
6. Resilience in Times of Crisis
One of the things that really shows the importance of small businesses is how communities come together during difficult times. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, small businesses were among the hardest hit, but they were also among the first to rally and support their communities. I saw businesses donating meals to healthcare workers, offering discounts to essential workers, and finding creative ways to continue serving customers safely.
During times of crisis, small businesses have the power to bring people together and provide a sense of stability. Being a small business owner during those times reminded me how important it is to stay connected to the community and support one another through thick and thin.
A Final Thought: Why Local Matters
At the end of the day, supporting local is about more than just dollars and cents. It’s about investing in our communities, creating places where people feel at home, and fostering connections that make life richer. Small businesses have a unique power to make these things happen. When we support local, we’re supporting the dreams of our neighbors and building a community where everyone can thrive.
Whether it’s your favorite coffee shop, a family-owned bookstore, or a new landscaping business, choosing to support local makes a real difference. Small businesses may be small, but the impact we can have on our communities is anything but. And I’m proud to be part of a community that values and supports the people who make it unique.
To learn more about my landscaping business, please visit https://thenewlawnguy.com/.