Having grown up and worked in small businesses, I understand the importance of community support when it comes to success. Owensboro has an amazing Chamber of Commerce that features small businesses each week and hosts 'Small Business Saturdays' to encourage us all to "Shop Small."

When we spend money in local businesses, the money stays in Owensboro. Those business owners invest in the community by donating to non-profits and buying supplies at local vendors.  It goes towards dance classes at local studios for their kids, tickets to a show downtown, or dinner at a local restaurant. All of those things invigorate our local economy.

Matt Weafer/Niko's Bakery
Matt Weafer/Niko's Bakery
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I try to spend money in locally owned shops and restaurants as often as I can over big box stores like Target or Walmart.  However, there are times we may need to shop where we can cut a coupon or order something from Amazon. That's why I would like to share with you three easy ways we can all do our part to support our friends and neighbors' small businesses for free!

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How to Support Small Businesses Without Spending Money

1. Referrals

If someone says to me "Hey, I have family visiting from out of town. Where should I take them to eat?" You best believe I am gonna share our plethora of amazing local restaurant options. Owensboro is full to the brim with delicious local eateries to fit any vibe or culinary preference. It doesn't cost me anything at all to encourage other people to enjoy them! And woo buddy, they sure will enjoy them!

2. Write a Positive Review

This one is easy peasy! Take five minutes and write something nice about a local shop in their Google Reviews. It will boost their rating and make their day!

Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash
Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash
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3. Show the Social Media Love

Share their posts, love their posts, comment on their posts, tag a friend or invite them to like the page, take a picture of something purchased in their shop and tag them in it.  SO MANY easy and quick ways to help a small business expand their reach on social media.

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
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I'm sure some of these are things you already do to spread the small business love in Owensboro.  Community support is necessary for success, and I can speak from experience that it means the world to the business owners!

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