As Small Business Saturday approaches, it's a great opportunity for our community to come together and support one another. In the spirit of community and growth, we've compiled some free and easy ways for small businesses to boost one another. Let's make this Small Business Saturday a thriving success for all!

1. Leverage Social Media:

• Share and Engage: Actively share, like, and comment on posts from fellow local businesses. It's a simple yet powerful way to increase each other's reach.
• Cross-Promotions: Team up for social media shoutouts. Feature a different business each day leading up to Small Business Saturday.

2. Collaborate on a Local Guide:

• Create a digital guide showcasing local businesses, their stories, and what they offer. This can be distributed through social media and email newsletters, providing exposure for everyone involved.

3. Window Signage and Flyers:

• Use your storefront to promote neighboring businesses. A simple sign or flyer endorsing another local business can drive foot traffic and foster a sense of community.

4. Host Joint Events or Promotions:

• Organize a local business crawl or a joint promotional event. It’s a fun way to encourage community members to visit multiple businesses in one day.

5. Share Your Expertise:

• Offer to host a free workshop or webinar sharing your expertise with other business owners. Knowledge exchange strengthens the entire community.

6. Feature Each Other’s Products or Services:

• If you sell products, consider featuring items from another local business in your store. For service-based businesses, refer clients to each other when appropriate.

7. Create a Local Business Network:

• Establish a network where businesses can communicate, share advice, and support each other regularly. This can be as simple as a social media group or a monthly meet-up.

8. Customer Referral Programs:

• Implement a referral program where customers get a small perk for supporting multiple local businesses. It encourages repeat business and community involvement.

Small Business Saturday is more than just a day of shopping; it's a celebration of our community's resilience, creativity, and collaborative spirit. By supporting each other, we not only strengthen our individual businesses but also the fabric of our Cottage Grove, Newport, and St. Paul Park communities. Let's join hands and make this Small Business Saturday a remarkable one!