Discover the significant role that small businesses play in boosting local economies. They create jobs and stimulate economic growth, fostering a sense of pride and support for your local community. Learn about the latest statistics and unique ways small businesses contribute to society.
Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, driving growth and well-being. According to the Small Business Administration, in 2019, they generated a staggering 44% of all U.S. economic activity. More impressively, they were responsible for creating two-thirds of all new jobs, a testament to their crucial role in job creation and financial stability. Yet, their impact on the community goes beyond these impressive statistics.
Small businesses play a significant role in fostering community and belonging. A U.S. Chamber of Commerce survey found that 70% of small companies encourage their employees to shop at other local small businesses, thereby supporting entrepreneurs and boosting the local economy.
This practice keeps money within the community. Furthermore, 66% of small companies donate to local charities, and 64% sponsor or donate to local events, promoting unity and shared responsibility. These actions make communities more assertive and cohesive.
Moreover, small businesses often lead the way in environmental sustainability and innovation. They incorporate environmentally sustainable methods into their operations, reduce waste, and use sustainable materials, which helps the community’s health.
They incubate innovation. Their unique products and services meet their communities’ needs, improving residents’ lives and inspiring big businesses to follow. Small businesses are not just economic entities. They are vital to our communities’ social and environmental fabric.
How Small Businesses Make a Positive Impact on Communities
Becoming a business owner can change your own life for the better – and your community!
Today, I will share some resources to help you launch a business and explain why small businesses are vital to communities.
I am going to discuss how small businesses make a positive impact on communities.
1. Launching a Business
You’re curious about starting a small business and how to begin. Initially, you will create a basic business plan and budget.
You will also need to choose a business structure. Many small business owners enjoy LLC status. It gives them limited liability and tax benefits.
Filing your formation documents can be costly if you hire a lawyer. So, you can file them yourself or use an online service. To find the best service, check reviews of a few options.
2. Learning Entrepreneurial Skills
You’ve heard the adage, “Work smarter, not harder.” Well, that applies to the business world as well. Running a business can be stressful, but there are plenty of tools that can make the job a little easier.
If you have contracts to sign, here’s a solution. It lets you sign them online, improving your work with vendors and freelancers. It also makes your work clearer and more efficient.
What if you want to start a small business in your community? But do you need more confidence in your entrepreneurial skills? You can further your education with a business degree to remedy this.
You could study business management, accounting, communications, marketing, and other subjects! If you’re busy with family and work, consider an online degree. It will let you study while meeting your obligations.
3. Revitalize Towns
Small businesses can revive your city’s downtown and neglected neighborhoods. Undiscovered gems in your town could hold significant financial potential. You can be the change you want to see.
ICIC states that small businesses in inner cities let people work where they live, avoiding commuting outside the city. Small business growth creates vibrant neighborhoods for residents to work and live.
4. New Job Opportunities
Small businesses are the driving force behind job growth. According to Oberlo, they create 1.5 million new jobs each year, accounting for 64 percent of all new jobs in the U.S. This significant contribution not only boosts the economy but also enhances the quality of life in your community, offering hope and optimism for a brighter future.
5. Boost Tourism
New small businesses can attract more visitors, whether your area is a tourist hotspot or not. Travel Pulse says 97% of tourists prefer to shop or eat at small businesses on vacation.
People seek unique travel experiences that are not available at home. So, travel itineraries usually include small businesses.
6. Increased Tax Revenue
Local governments need tax revenue to fund essential public services. Without a strong economy, communities won’t have tax revenue, and they won’t be able to run public services well.
This is where small businesses come in. Although they may not earn as much as big firms, they still pay taxes that benefit their communities. These taxes pay for everything from local schools to emergency services.
Opening a small business can bring all kinds of benefits to your community. You can revitalize your downtown, attract tourists, and create local jobs! With these tips, you’ll be ready to get your business degree and start your own company.
In Conclusion
Small businesses are vital to our communities. They drive growth, create jobs, and foster unity. They do more than boost the economy. They engage in charity, support local events, and adopt eco-friendly practices. These efforts improve residents’ lives. They inspire big businesses to follow suit, creating a ripple effect of change.
If small businesses’ impact on communities inspires you, why not start your own? Sign up free at Wealthy Affiliate University and start a small online business that can make a difference. I will earn a commission on all purchases made through the affiliate links in my blog posts and website. Your support helps me continue to provide valuable content and resources.
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Hey Jamie,
Thank you for this article. You’ve provided great detail and so pertinent too.
We see our high streets dwindling, even more so as a knock-on effect from COVID-19 and as you highlight in your article, local governments need local economies to fund local services. The two come hand in hand.
So it’s important that we all recognise the importance of the local economy and support our local business when and where we can, understanding the roundabout impact that will have on us all. And you know this counts for whatever town in whichever city or indeed whichever country.
Very relevant article and its essence impacts us all.
Thank you.
Cherie :o).
Thank you for your thoughts Chezstar! You are right, we all are important to the big picture!