The holiday season is one of the busiest and most important times of the year for small businesses. For many, especially Black-owned businesses, it can make or break their year. While shopping locally is an important way to show support, it is also a principle noted during the Kwanza, not everyone has the budget to buy gifts from every business they want to support. The good news is that there are many impactful ways to uplift small businesses without spending any money. Here are a few ways to support small businesses for free this holiday season.
1. Support Small Businesses For Free by Spreading the Word on Social Media
Social media is a small business’s best friend, but algorithms can make it hard for posts to gain visibility. You can help by sharing their content with your audience. Whether it’s a product announcement, a sale, or a heartfelt story about their business, your share can bring them new customers.
Don’t just stop at sharing, don’t forget to tag friends who might be interested in what the business offers. For example, if you know someone looking for unique jewelry or handmade candles, tag them in a Black-owned business’s post. A quick share or comment goes a long way in expanding their reach.
2. Leave Positive Reviews for Businesses You Like
Online reviews are crucial for small businesses because they can influence customer decisions. Reviews can truly impact a business’s bottom line. If you’ve ever had a great experience with a local shop or service, take a few minutes to leave a glowing review on their social media platforms.
The more specific your review, the better. If their customer service was off the charts, call that out. If their product quality is outstanding, be sure to put that in the review. Be specific about what you love. For Black-owned businesses, this can be particularly meaningful, as visibility and trust are often barriers to growth. Your review could be the push someone needs to give that business a chance.
3. Support Small Businesses For Free by Engaging With Their Online Content
Engagement doesn’t stop at sharing posts. Like, comment, and save their content whenever you see it on your feed. Comments that show genuine interest, like “I love this idea!” or “Your designs are stunning!” can help boost their visibility.
Also, consider following hashtags like #SupportBlackBusiness or #ShopLocal to discover new businesses to support. Interacting with their posts signals to algorithms that their content is valuable, increasing the chances it will be shown to more people.
4. Word of Mouth Referrals Make All The Difference
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to support a small business is through word of mouth. Tell friends, family, and coworkers about Black-owned businesses you love. Whether it’s a local bakery, a hairstylist, or a boutique, a personal recommendation often carries more weight than an ad.
You can also casually share these businesses in conversations. For example, if someone mentions they’re looking for holiday gifts, recommend a small business you know that offers unique or handmade options.
5. Sign Up for Small Business Newsletters
Subscribing to a small business’s email list costs nothing but can make a big difference. Email marketing is a critical tool for many entrepreneurs, and a growing subscriber list helps boost their reach.
By signing up, you’ll also be the first to know about sales, new products, or events. If you see something worth sharing, forward the email to others who might be interested.
6. Support Small Businesses for Free by Giving Them a Shout-out
A simple shoutout on your social media or a heartfelt comment on their posts can make a small business owner’s day. Publicly expressing your support reminds others that small businesses matter, especially during the holidays.
This kind of appreciation is particularly impactful for black-owned businesses. Highlight their unique offerings, share how they’ve inspired you, or express gratitude for their role in the community.
7. Create a Small Business Gift Guide
Consider creating a holiday gift guide featuring your favorite small businesses. Focus on Black-owned businesses to help amplify their visibility. Share it on your social media or with your friends and family, making it easy for others to shop local and support these businesses.
Highlight a mix of products, from stocking stuffers to larger gifts, and include links to the businesses’ websites or social profiles.
8. Encourage Others to Support Small Businesses
Supporting small businesses shouldn’t be a solo effort. Encourage your friends, family, and community to join in. Challenge yourself to talk about a new Black-owned business you’ve discovered each week or host a virtual event to showcase your favorite local finds.
Supporting small businesses, especially Black-owned ones, during the holiday season isn’t just about boosting sales. It’s about strengthening communities, celebrating creativity, and investing in the people behind the brands.
While your budget might be tight, you can still uplift small businesses. Every share, shoutout, and recommendation makes a difference. Let’s show small businesses just how much they mean to us this holiday season, one free act of support at a time.
