Small business owners can benefit greatly from local associations. If you don’t have community clout yet, you could be missing out on valuable opportunities for mentorship, advice, business development, skills, and resources that other seasoned entrepreneurs are sharing.
Joining one – or several – small business associations can push you forward as an entrepreneur. Here are five ways your business can integrate with your community:
1. Small Business Administration (SBA) Community Groups
The SBA offers low-cost loans, advice, and networking opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
They are a major supporting arm of the nation’s economy, ensuring small businesses can access federal relief programs and find support. They’ve been especially important to small businesses during the pandemic-era economic fallout.
There are several SBA development centers located across the country that provide important resources for business management, finance, marketing, and regulatory compliance.
2. Your Local Chamber of Commerce
Joining this type of organization in your city or county has several perks. To name a few: brand exposure, partnerships, and the chance to build rapport with other small business owners in your community.
Membership in the Chamber of Commerce might also offer opportunities to be featured in newsletters, invited to local trade shows and entrepreneurial workshops, and even qualify for discounts on supplies or services.
You will also likely generate leads or referrals for your business by tapping into this local network.
Registration with the Chamber of Commerce comes with a small price tag, but it’s worth it – especially if your business relies heavily on local patronage.
3. Local Listings
Maximize brand awareness by signing up for as many local listings in your area as you can. This includes joining professional registries, taking out ads or being quoted by local media, participating in community groups online, and even listing yourself in digital directories.
Make sure your business location is up to date on Google Maps and has current contact information so that customers can easily search for your business, get in touch, and get to your door.
4. Business Network International (BNI)
With almost 300,000 members in over 75 countries, the BNI is the world's largest referral networking organization.
Local representatives meet regularly to share business ideas, share referrals, and provide support.
BNI members are actively assisted on regional and global scales in the form of mentorship, training, structure, and technological support.
5. Your Local Media & Influencer List
Having a local ambassador for your brand can appeal to customers in your area in a very authentic and unique way.
Influencers and local media personalities can also give you higher visibility, increased brand awareness, and lend credibility to your business.
The Bottom Line
With some promotional efforts on your part, your small business can better thrive in its hometown and connect to its community.
Your brand may even gain a competitive advantage over international and national companies because you’re known as an engaged local business by belonging to neighborhood or city-based groups.
Your local professional community can help you improve your bottom line and key performance indicators, as you network with like-minded entrepreneurs and take full advantage of resources or mentorship to help you grow your business.
HealthChoice of Michigan supports all small businesses in Oakland and Wayne Counties.
We are here for you and your team’s health by offering affordable Small Business Plans with comprehensive health, dental, and optical benefits through an extensive network of Metro Detroit's most respected physicians and hospitals.
With a flat rate of $240/month per team member (regardless of age or gender), you can afford the best coverage for your team with minimal out-of-pocket costs, and spend the time and money you save being a vital part of your community!
Visit https://healthchoiceofmichigan.com to learn more and to start your application.