How Do I Become a Business My Community Loves?

What we’ve found is this: small business owners who take the time to invest in their local community benefit greatly. Especially when they support causes that align with their passions and values. For example, a mattress store might do a “buy a bed, give a bed” campaign. A local market could host a food drive. You get the idea.  

Problem

When a business invests back into the community, it shows customers that they’re about more than just profit— they’re about people. As Americans, as entrepreneurs, as small business owners, we all like to shop at places that truly benefit whatever community we live in. The key is doing it in a way that feels (and is) authentic. 

But as a small business owner, how do you promote a spirit of authentic generosity without it feeling, well… sleazy?

Solution

To become the kind of business your community truly wants to shop at, you need to create authentic partnerships with local charities.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Be Authentic:
Choose a cause you genuinely care about, something you’d donate resources to personally. Ask yourself: What issues or missions are you personally passionate about? What would you give your own money to? Take time to reflect on what matters most to you— and get your team involved in brainstorming!

2. Focus on the Charity, Not Self-Promotion:

When you promote your involvement, keep the focus on the charity, not just your business. Highlight the incredible work the charity does and the impact they have on the community. Show people that the goal is to support the cause, not to drive sales.

3. Leverage Your Audience and Resources:
Use your platform to amplify the charity’s message. Whether it’s your email list, social media, or physical store, make it easy for your customers to get involved. Some examples could be hosting an event benefiting the charity, sharing their mission in your marketing, or providing convenient ways for your customers to donate. Get creative! 

Success

When businesses authentically partner with charities, they send a clear message: We care about our community.

Customers notice. They feel good about supporting a business that cares as much about their community as much as they do.

Over time, these efforts build trust, loyalty, and a sense of connection that big box stores just can’t replicate.

Now What

The truth is: you don’t get a lot out of it. Except that you help people to understand what you truly value. And when people see that you’re leveraging your small business for the benefit of your community, you become the kind of place they actually want to shop at. 

For more ideas on how to get involved in a local charity, checkout our blog post here: https://www.trellismarketing.ai/trellis-blog/should-we-partner-with-a-local-charity or schedule a free discovery call, and let’s make it happen!