The definition of advocacy is, “public support for or recommendation of a particular cause or policy.” Being an “advocate” is often tied to the idea that you have to go to Washington and plead your case for change. When it comes to small businesses, showing local support can be as easy as making a small gesture that will go a long way.

How can business owners advocate for other small businesses?

Organizations such as the Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy and the National Federation of Independent Business make it their mission to advocate for small and independent businesses on a federal level. If you’re a small business owner looking to be an advocate for your fellow local entrepreneurs, here are a few ideas from Forbes:

• Shop small all year long. Be a leader and show that it’s important to support local businesses all the time, especially during Small Business Week and Small Business Saturday. Set a mental reminder. Instead of ordering online, go to a nearby shop to find what you need. The more you show your face in the community supporting others, the more you can spread awareness about your own business and mission.

• Be the advocate that is great with posting positive reviews and spreading the word about local small businesses. Use your own social media channels to let others know about businesses that offer good services and products. When small businesses can’t afford costly marketing platforms, they gain business through word of mouth. If you share your knowledge with others, you can help someone else’s business as well as mark your own as a positive small business influencer.

• Mentoring an up-and-coming entrepreneur is another way to show your advocacy for small businesses. By donating your time and expertise, you can share ideas and help mold the future of local businesses. It shows leadership, and that you are a business owner with values.

Being a small business advocate can shed a positive light on your business and what you stand for, which can lead to new partnerships and initiatives to help entrepreneurs in your area. You could see an uptick in your own business by simply taking the time to show you understand the importance of supporting other local organizations.

At CuyEast Chamber, advocacy opportunities are focused on reviewing, developing, and supporting ideas that encourage a positive, proactive business environment for all. Becoming an advocate for the businesses within your local chapter and across the region can take on a variety of forms. 

Share your voice on important business development issues or lead a committee engaged in local government affairs. To learn more about advocacy opportunities with the CuyEast Chamber, email connect@cuyeast.org or visit https://cuyahogaeastchamber.org/advocacy/.