The permanent population of the Sea to Sky Corridor isn’t much over 40,000 people. Even with such a small community, there are countless incredible small businesses throughout the area, each offering something unique to the business landscape.
At Community Futures Howe Sound, we are always here to support those businesses, whether through free advice and coaching, business loans, or development projects. But we know we can only do so much – which is why it’s so important that small businesses also support other small businesses.
Here are five easy ways you can do that!
Engage on social media and online
Follow small businesses, like their posts, comment on their pages, and add glowing reviews to Google when you try their products and services.
All of these things help to promote their digital presence, and positive Google reviews are a fantastic easy way to boost their SEO. Plus, this is a great way for you to network and improve your connections with other local businesses, as they will start to recognize your name and become more familiar with your brand as well.
2. Source work supplies and services there
Want to host an event at your business and need to supply some drinks and nibbles for your guests? Skip the supermarket and see if there’s a local business offering these kinds of products that you can support.
In the market for a new accountant? Ask around for one in the Sea to Sky. Not only will you get to speak with someone local who knows the regional rules and challenges, you’ll also be giving a boost to somebody in your own community.
With so much diversity in the business community here, it might be easier than you think to support your fellow business owners across Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton.
3. Invite them to networking events
Networking with other businesses and movers and shakers in the Sea to Sky can be hugely valuable for small businesses. From sharing resources and tools to creating business partnerships and supporting each other, these kinds of connections can be invaluable.
If you know of a start-up or small business owner looking to get their name out there, invite them along to a networking event. Having someone to introduce them around the room can make a world of difference to someone looking to start building connections.
The Squamish Chamber and Whistler Chamber both host regular networking events that are designed to help businesses meet and form relationships.
4. Send customers their way
There’s nothing like word of mouth when it comes to powerful marketing tools. People will generally trust your personal opinion over any sparkly website or convincing ad campaign, which is why a recommendation from you will be worth its weight in figurative gold for your fellow small business.
Whether it’s a friend, someone visiting, or one of your own customers, referrals to other local businesses are one of the best ways to offer your support.
5. Pass on tools and resources
The right resource or tool at the right time could be exactly what a small business needs to grow, thrive, or even simply survive.
Perhaps you’ve heard of a small business grant they could apply for, or know about a business support service they could use. Whatever it is, pass it along and be the connection between a local business and the tools they need.
For example, some small businesses will struggle to gain the funding they need to grow from traditional banks. Community Futures Howe Sound offers small businesses loans for start-ups and organizations in exactly that scenario. We also offer free business coaching and advice (no strings attached) to help business owners succeed. Yet, not everyone knows about us, so the simple act of spreading the word could be that all-important connection.
Get in touch with our friendly team today for business coaching, advice, small business loans, and support.