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24 Simple Ways to Support Small Businesses in 2025

11 September

Small businesses are the heart of our communities. They make our towns, cities, and our online spaces richer, warmer, and more human. In tough times, like this cost of living crisis and amidst the new US tariffs on goods affecting small business globally, the smallest of gestures from you makes a real difference.

Here are 24 thoughtful, simple ways you can support the makers, dreamers, and doers you love, to ensure they stay in your world…

Everyday Support (No Spend Required)

Follow them on social media — it helps with visibility in algorithms.
Like, save, or share posts — small actions boost their reach.
Leave a positive comment — encouragement matters.
Tell a friend about them — word of mouth is priceless.
Leave a glowing review on Google, Facebook, or their website.
Tag them in a photo when you use their product or service.
Sign up to their newsletter — a direct line that’s not controlled by social media.
Engage with their stories/reels — clicks, votes, and reactions help.

When You’re Shopping or Booking Services

Buy direct from their website rather than through third-party platforms.
Choose a gift from a small business for birthdays, weddings, and holidays.
Buy a gift voucher — it helps with cash flow now and joy later.
Order seasonally — for example, linen in summer, candles at Christmas, flowers on Mother’s Day, keeps your support regular.
Book their services early — it helps them plan ahead.
Pay on time — reliability is a gift in itself.

Every purchase from a small business is more than a transaction — it’s a vote for keeping creativity, courage, and community in our lives.

Going the Extra Mile

Feature them on your own social media — a story share can reach new eyes.
Introduce them to someone in your network who might collaborate.
Give them a shout-out at an event — word of mouth is powerful.
Write a blog post or recommendation if you have a platform.
Nominate them for local awards or features — community recognition can open new doors.
Support their events or markets in person — showing up matters as much as buying.

Creative Ways to Show Love

Create a Pinterest board with their products.
Add their shop to your Google Maps “favourites.”
Bring their product to work/when you go out and let colleagues and friends know where it came from.
Send them a personal note — a thank you email, card, or DM goes further than you think.

Supporting small business doesn’t always mean spending big. Every share, every word of encouragement, every thoughtful gesture adds up.

And of course, your spend casts a vote for small business now, and into our shared future.

Small businesses don’t just sell products or services — they weave joy, craft, and connection into our lives. And your support is what keeps their stories alive.