In times of crisis, communities come together to support one another. Damon Becnel has noted this has been especially evident in the past few weeks as businesses have struggled during the pandemic. Communities have rallied to help local businesses with everything from marketing to financial support. Here are 5 ways that communities have helped local businesses during this difficult time:
1. Local businesses have banded together
In many cases, local businesses have come together to form coalitions and support each other. This has been done in a variety of ways, such as sharing resources, marketing each other’s businesses, and providing financial support. These groups have been invaluable in helping small businesses stay afloat during this difficult time.
For example, the “I Love Local Businesses” campaign in the United Kingdom encouraged customers to purchase gift cards from local businesses. In total, $12 million was raised for small businesses through this program.
2. Residents are patronizing local businesses more frequently
Communities have also banded together by purchasing more goods and services from local businesses. In many cases, sales are at a higher level than they were before the pandemic began. For example, in Houston, Texas, local businesses saw a 20% increase in sales after the city’s mayor issued a “stay at home” order.
This trend is also seen on social media. For example, hashtags such as #buylocal and #shoplocal are being used more frequently to promote community-based businesses. This increase in sales has helped businesses stay afloat during these difficult times. In many cases, this has been the difference between staying open and closing.
3. Social media has been used to promote local businesses
Social media has also played a pivotal role in promoting local businesses. For example, many residents have taken to social media to post reviews and testimonials of their favorite community-based businesses. This has helped drive traffic (and sales) to these small businesses. In addition, many organizations are offering free ads on Facebook or Instagram for local businesses.
This type of promotion is invaluable for small businesses, as it allows them to reach a large audience at no cost. It also helps build trust between the business and the customer.
In addition, many communities are organizing events to support local businesses. These events can include things such as food drives, raffles, or auctions.
4. Groups have been formed to support local businesses
In some cases, Damon Becnel says communities have formed groups to support local businesses. These groups can provide a variety of services, such as mentorship, marketing assistance, and financial support.
For example, the “Houston Local Business Alliance” is a group that provides marketing assistance and financial support to local businesses in Houston. This type of organization can be extremely helpful to small businesses during difficult times.
In addition, many communities have set up “business incubators.” These incubators provide a variety of resources to help local businesses get started, such as mentorship, office space, and financial support. This type of group can be extremely helpful for businesses that are just starting out.
5. Municipalities are easing regulations
In many cases, municipalities have eased regulations on local businesses. This can include things such as reducing fees or easing zoning requirements. In some cases, cities have given free advertising to local businesses.
These types of measures can make a big difference for small businesses during this difficult time. Additionally, municipalities are working to create a climate that is conducive for small business growth.
Conclusion
Local businesses have come together to form coalitions and support each other in a variety of ways. This has been done to stay afloat during the pandemic. Social media has played a pivotal role in promoting these businesses. Groups have been formed to assist local businesses. Municipalities are easing regulations on local businesses.
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