As a business owner in a small rural town, I can tell you that locally owned businesses are like the heart of the community. When they thrive, good things happen. And when they struggle, you can feel the pain throughout the town.

Let me paint you a picture. Imagine strolling down Main Street on a warm summer evening. You see that the local bakery is open late, and the scent of freshly baked cupcakes is wafting out the door. You pass by the newly remodeled boutique, and you can’t resist popping in to browse the latest fashions. At the end of the street, you hear live music streaming from the outdoor stage at your favorite bar.

These are the moments that make small-town living special. And they are possible because of the hard work and dedication (and frankly, financial risk) of small business owners in our communities.

When small businesses thrive, they give back in so many ways. They create jobs and support families. They pay taxes that fund local services like schools, roads, and emergency responders. They offer unique products and services that make our towns stand out, attracting visitors and bolstering tourism. Every small town has a vibe, and the small businesses help create that vibe.

Small businesses also support other small businesses. For example, when a local hardware store needs new shelves, they might hire a local carpenter to build them. The carpenter then purchases their lumber from another local business, and so on. This cycle of support keeps money flowing within the community, strengthening the local economy as a whole.

So if you’re a small business owner in a rural town, know that your hard work is making a difference in so many ways. You are the backbone of the community, and your success ripples out to benefit everyone around you. Keep up the great work!

Even if you don’t feel it right now, know that we see you, and we value you!

Are you a small town business owner?  Want some help with your marketing online?  Reach out to Steven by clicking the button below to schedule time on his calendar.