12 Ways to Support Small Businesses (That Don’t Cost a Dime)

Running a small business is freaking hard. I don’t have to tell you, you already know! Websites that don’t work, hours upon hours of time, energy and love put into a product that doesn’t sell, Negative-Nelson’s that want you to be Amazon. That’s why small business owners need to stick together 💪🏻. “But wait! I have a small business of my own that makes next to nothing, how can I support others?!” you ask.

You don’t have to spend money to make a big difference in someone’s business. In fact, some of the most meaningful ways to support small businesses are completely free. They’re simple, human, and rooted in kindness. That kind of support that keeps entrepreneurs going on the hard days.

Here are 12 ways to lift up the businesses you love, without spending a penny:

1. Leave a Kind Review

Those few sentences you write on Google or Facebook? They matter. Reviews are often the first thing new customers see, and they carry so much weight for small businesses. Think of it as leaving a digital high-five 🙌🏻.

2. Comment (Don’t Just Like)

Algorithms notice conversation. When you drop a quick “This place is awesome!” or “I love what you’re doing!” on a post, it pushes that business in front of new eyes. Every comment is like a little cheer from the sidelines and actually helps that business.

🎉 I stole this one from my friend, Deby Lexow, who owns Locle Box. She mentioned it during a breakfast we attended and she is so right!

3. Tell a Friend

It sounds obvious, but how often do we actually do it? Word-of-mouth is still the most powerful marketing out there. Text a friend, tag someone in a post, or mention your favorite local shop/ food truck/ attorney/ service when someone asks for recommendations. You never know who might become their next loyal customer.

Who doesn’t love getting mail?!

4. Send Encouragement

Business ownership is beautiful, but it’s also lonely sometimes. A quick message, handwritten note, or postcard saying, “Hey, I see how hard you’re working and I think it’s amazing,” can mean the world (plus, who doesn’t love to get mail that isn’t bills?!).

5. Collaborate or Barter

You don’t always need cash to create value. Maybe you’re a photographer who can trade a few professional photos to be used in their marketing materials for one of their products that you need, or a local shop owner who can let a food truck park in your lot - good promotion for them and you! Collaboration builds connection (and visibility for both of you).

6. Nominate Them for an Award 🏆

Many local newspapers, chambers, or community groups host “Best Of” contests or business spotlights. It only takes a minute to nominate someone, but it’s a huge gesture of respect and support.

Give them some love!

7. Post a Shoutout

When you genuinely love a business, share it. Post a picture, tell people why it matters to you, and tag the business so others can find them. These posts travel far and often land right where they’re needed most.

8. Make a Connection

Know someone who could help a business grow? A web designer, a coach, or even a customer? Make the introduction. You never know how one connection could change someone’s trajectory.

9. Choose Local When You Can

Before clicking “add to cart” on Amazon/ Walmart/ Home Depot/ etc, take a moment to see if a small business offers it. You might find the same thing/ same price (and better service). It’s the small, intentional choices that keep our communities strong.

10. Join and Engage in Local Business Communities

Follow, comment, and join in communities. Whether it’s The Hub North, NAWBO, your local chamber or another local network, being part of the conversation creates ripple effects that reach far beyond one business. Sometimes you just being there gives another entrepreneur strength (even if you can’t see it).

11. Show Up for them

Attend their open houses, pop-ups, or ribbon cuttings. Even if you don’t buy a thing, your presence says, “I’m here. I care.” That matters more than you might think ❤️.

12. Be Generous With Kindness

Behind every business is a person who’s trying their best. Be patient. Be kind. Celebrate their wins, big or small. That energy is contagious and keeps the whole ecosystem thriving. Being friendly is free and always appreciated by small business owners.

A kind word and a smile goes a long way 😃

final thought

Supporting small businesses isn’t always about money, it’s about momentum. When we show up, cheer each other on, and share what we love, we’re building something bigger than commerce. We’re building community.

So the next time you see a small business doing something great, don’t scroll past, speak up. Your words might be exactly what they need to keep going.