According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses are the livelihood of the U.S. economy. They create two-thirds of net new jobs and drive U.S. innovation and competitiveness. As the world wrestles with COVID-19 and major retailers switch to survival mode, small businesses are suffering more than ever. Several months of shutdowns and social distancing restrictions have significantly impacted in-store traffic which is the main source of income for these businesses.

Now more than ever, we should all support these businesses which have made a significant effort to move their operations online. We have compiled a list of all the ways that will enable you to do so more efficiently. In addition, our gift wishlist app, GyftHint will make it a lot more convenient to support small businesses. The app will also encourage your friends and family to contribute as well.

Supporting Local Businesses

Here are some of the best ways in which you can help to support small businesses in your area: 

• • Make a mindful effort to shop there: The first and most obvious way to support a local business is simply by shopping there. Whether it’s a baking company, jewelry store or coffee shop, becoming a regular customer will be your contribution to keeping the local business afloat. As mentioned above, many local businesses have been focusing their efforts on their online presence to attract and service customers. Interact with and support them by shopping on their online store and following their social media handles from the safety and comfort of your home.

 

• • Get a gift card: Is someone’s birthday or a holiday coming up? Or if you know you could use a few services in the future. What better way to support a local business than getting a gift card? The neighborhood nail salon whose business has dropped by half will appreciate you buying a gift card to help them through these tough times. Even if you don’t need their service immediately, you’ll end up gifting it or using it later.

 

• Spread the word. The best marketing tool, undoubtedly, is word of mouth. Is your friend a fantastic hairstylist? Does your colleague make the best cakes? Is your daughter’s teacher the best tutor you know? Advertise the services and products that small businesses provide everywhere you go! Social media is a very powerful tool that enables you to do this effectively. You can share what you purchased on social media, encouraging your network of family and friends to follow your lead. Become an advocate and go beyond the financial support of your favorite store. 

How to Support Local Businesses with GyftHint

GyftHint offers a great way to support local businesses and spread the word about them by including their products in your wishlists. Does a small Etsy shop carry a gorgeous scarf you’ve been eyeing for a while? Add it to your GyftHint wishlist and have your family and friends be exposed to this small business too. If you’re lucky enough, they’ll get it for you as a gift! This will allow you to support a local business and get gifts that you really like.

GyftHint is an app that allows you to gather everything you want in one place, whether it be electronics, beauty products, clothes, games, spa services…basically anything that’s available for sale. The beauty of this app is in adding items not only from large retailers but also from small boutiques and specialty stores. You can then share your wishlist among friends and family. The purpose of this list is to keep your network in the loop on what you want for your birthday or Valentine’s Day. Never again will you have to answer the dreaded question of “what do you want for your birthday?” The best part is to encourage your friends and family to sign up for the app and add their favorite items. This way, you will all receive notifications when special occasions roll around and never forget another present again. Above all, you’ll know what they want! 

Small businesses give back so much to their local communities, introduce diversity and innovation, and provide exceptional customer service.  In turn, supporting a local business should make us feel good about helping the economy and our community. The GyftHint app is one of the most convenient ways to support and share your favorite items from your favorite small businesses.

Download GyftHint today!