Small businesses need our support.

Display window decorated with hanging dried flowers, a large basket with dried flowers, and a table covered with an orange cloth and more dried flowers inside a store named Wildwest. The store has a modern, rustic aesthetic with warm-toned decor.
Group of seven women smiling in a room with a brick wall and a neon sign that says 'Life is Beautiful.' They are gathered around a table with various desserts, drinks, and baking supplies.
Stack of folded paper currency bills tied with string, with illustrations of buildings and text reading 'Lehburg' and 'VIB', in a tray.
A male chef in a black professional uniform smiling and talking with a woman with long blond hair, glasses, and a red patterned sleeveless top in a bar or restaurant setting with bottles and glasses on shelves in the background.

A thriving downtown and small business community is essential to the cultural and economic vitality of a region overall.

Use the arrows to explore just a few reasons why…

  • Small businesses generate 70% more local economic activity per square foot than big-box retail.

    Business Journal Daily

  • For every $100 you spend locally, $68 will stay in the community, but only $43 will remain when you spend the same amount at a commercial chain.

    The American Booksellers Association

  • Every $10 million of spending at a local business creates more than 50 jobs, whereas the same amount spent at Amazon creates less than 15 jobs.

    Forbes

  • Compared to chains and larger businesses, small businesses donate 250 percent more to local nonprofits and causes in their community.

    Score.org

  • Neighborhoods served by successful small businesses see home values increase 50 percent on average.

    Business Alliance for Local Living Communities