✦ October marks Small Business Month, a time to celebrate and support the backbone of our local economies.
"There are now some 850,000 small businesses across NSW, which make up 98 per cent of all business in the State, employing 1.7 million people. Small business owners and operators are vital to the economic wellbeing and way of life in NSW." - Steve Kamper, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Lands and Property, Minister for Multiculturalism, Minister for Sport
Small businesses are anything but small when it comes to their impact. They are critical to local job creation and economic vitality, as well as driving innovation and fostering local growth.
Small businesses are not just employers but community builders, offering diverse services that enhance the vibrancy and resilience of local areas. Small businesses are often closely tied to the localities they serve, providing personalised services that reflect the unique needs and culture of their communities.
When small businesses thrive, the entire community benefits. They provide employment opportunities, increase consumer spending, and help build a sustainable local economy. Supporting small businesses means ensuring that the economic fabric of our communities remains strong and adaptable.
Strategic Partnerships for Business Growth: Insights & Innovations
As part of Small Business Month, Micro Business Forum, the friendliest business network in Port Macquarie-Hastings, is holding an exciting event Strategic Partnerships for Business Growth: Insights & Innovations on Wednesday, October 16th, 5:30pm at Charles Sturt University. Come to this event to get a wealth of insights, and learn how strategic partnerships can unlock growth potential for small businesses.
Partnerships offer small businesses the chance to pool resources, share expertise, and collaborate on innovative solutions to challenges. Whether it’s working together on marketing campaigns, sharing distribution channels, or co-developing products, strategic collaborations can reduce costs, amplify reach, and open up new revenue streams.
The Micro Business Forum’s event will feature speakers Chris Fowler, Business Concierge from Service NSW Business Bureau and Ellen Crepaz of Port Macquarie EaTs, a passionate advocate for community and business collaboration. They will be sharing practical strategies to forge these types of partnerships, helping small businesses think beyond traditional boundaries. This is an opportunity for business owners to learn how to leverage collective strength for mutual growth, tapping into innovations that will future-proof their businesses in an evolving market landscape.
Join this event to invest in your business' future by learning how to collaborate more effectively. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event will provide actionable insights to help you navigate the ever-changing business world.
How to support small businesses
Shop local and spread the word
One of the simplest ways to support small businesses is by shopping locally. Every purchase you make from a small business directly contributes to the local economy. You can also help by leaving positive reviews, recommending them to friends, or sharing their posts on social media. Word of mouth is incredibly powerful for small businesses.
Engage with them online
Many small businesses now operate online through websites and social media platforms. Engaging with their content – by liking, commenting, or sharing – helps them reach a wider audience. Even if you can’t make a purchase, your interaction online is free marketing for them.
Support them during tough times
Small businesses are especially vulnerable during economic downturns or unexpected events like the pandemic. In times of challenge, offer your support, whether it’s through buying gift cards for future use, donating, or just checking in to see how they are doing.
Be patient and understanding
Small businesses often operate with fewer resources than larger corporations, meaning longer turnaround times or occasional stock shortages. By showing understanding when things don’t go perfectly, you help reduce stress and encourage them to keep delivering their best. If there’s an issue with a product or service, small business owners appreciate constructive feedback given in a positive manner. This helps them improve while maintaining a relationship with their customers, rather than losing them due to misunderstandings or unresolved issues.
Choose small over big chains
Sometimes, spending a little extra on a small business product instead of opting for cheaper mass-produced goods from big chains can make a huge difference. You’re investing in quality, craftsmanship, and often sustainable business practices when you support a local entrepreneur.
Look into the heart of a small business owner
Not all of us have had the experience of starting our own business, and there are certain hidden things that small business owners wish clients could know and understand about their journey. That is why it is so important for small business owners to come together and find a supportive network of people who understand. Here are some thoughts for you to take away and perhaps bring to mind the next time you support a small business in your community.
We celebrate the passion and work so many of our Brilliant clients do, being with them on their journey of growth and seeing them thrive! We love sharing the stories of our clients such as AC Healthy Solutions, Accomplished Tree Management, Port AdVenture Cruises, Panoptic Vision, Abstract Plastics and My Body My Pilates, Samso, TG's Child Care.
Behind every small business is a human
Small business owners pour their time, passion, and often their personal savings into making their businesses work. They wear many hats – from sales and marketing to operations and customer service – and often work far beyond regular business hours. A little extra kindness and empathy from customers can go a long way.
Pricing reflects quality and fair practices
Small businesses are often unable to match the rock-bottom prices of larger corporations because they don’t operate at scale. Their pricing reflects the time, effort, and often ethical practices that go into their products or services. Clients can support small businesses by appreciating the value behind the price tag, knowing they’re paying for quality and often locally sourced or hand-crafted products.
Every customer is important
Unlike large corporations, where individual transactions may blend into the crowd, each customer plays a significant role in a small business’s success. Small business owners are often more personally invested in customer satisfaction and will go the extra mile to ensure a positive experience. It is in a small business environment where someone actually knows you by your name.
Flexibility and customisation come at a premium
Small businesses often offer more personalised services and customised products, which is something big chains rarely do. This level of personal attention is valuable but requires additional time and resources, which some customers may not immediately realise.
Passion drives them
Most small business owners are deeply passionate about what they do. Whether it’s a bakery, boutique, or consulting service, the personal fulfilment they get from their work is part of the value customers receive. By supporting them, you are helping someone continue doing what they love.
What is one small thing you can do this month to show your appreciation of some of the small businesses in your community? Try it, and watch their faces light up! ❋
Read about our Brilliant small businesses:
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