Make a Difference in Your Community By Supporting Small Businesses; Here’s How
May 6, 2021
National Small Business Week, May 2-8, 2021, is a celebration and appreciation of small businesses. It highlights the role they play in the U.S. economy with an emphasis on shopping local and supporting entrepreneurs. Here are some ways you can support local businesses and why it matters.
The annual celebration of National Small Business Week raises awareness of the economic value of small businesses and encourages community members to support them which, in turn, helps the local economy.
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), small businesses create nearly two out of every three new jobs in America each year, and more than half of Americans either work for or own a small business.
In addition, for every $100 spent at a local business, roughly $68 stays within the local economy, according to the SBA. Small business owners live and work in their communities, hire locally, pay local taxes, and produce unique products and services. All of this contributes to a more robust, vibrant community.
Many small businesses are able to respond and adapt quickly to changing economic climates because they are customer-oriented and understand the direct needs of their communities. As a result, customers tend to remain loyal to their favorite small businesses, even during times of economic crisis. This loyalty means that small businesses are often able to stay afloat during tough times, which can further strengthen local economies.
This has played out over the past year, as communities have rallied around their favorite local small businesses, getting take out, purchasing gift cards, and more.
MSUFCU’s Local Loyalty Program partners with local businesses partner to offer discounts to our members who use their MSUFCU Visa Debit or Credit Cards for purchases at participating small businesses. This provides even more incentive to support local businesses. You can support a local business owner and save money. It’s a win-win.
Currently, MSUFCU has 60 Local Loyalty Partners. These include 517 Coffee Company, Lansing Car Care Center, Yoga State, and more. You can see a complete list of Local Loyalty partners by visiting msufcu.org/localloyalty.
Tags: Community, Money Management, Budgeting