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As the holiday season approaches, the Hancock Chamber of Commerce encourages everyone to shop small and local to strengthen our community. Supporting small businesses is more than a transaction—it’s an investment in the heart of Hancock County.

Why Shopping Small Matters

Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. Nationally, they represent 99.9% of all businesses and employ 46.8% of the private workforce, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Every dollar spent at a small business creates an average of 68 cents of local economic impact, compared to just 43 cents when shopping at large retailers.

When you shop small, you’re not only supporting local business owners but also contributing to the economic health of our community. These businesses sponsor our kids’ sports teams, donate to local nonprofits, and provide jobs for our neighbors.

Support Chamber of Commerce Members

Another impactful way to shop small and local is by supporting businesses that are members of the Hancock Chamber of Commerce. Chamber members are deeply invested in the success of our community. They actively contribute to initiatives that improve our quality of life, from beautification projects to economic development efforts. When you support Chamber businesses, you’re not just shopping locally—you’re supporting organizations committed to the growth and prosperity of Hancock County. Check out the Chamber’s online business directory to discover local members who can meet your shopping and service needs at http://hancockchamber.org. 

Shop Local: A Bigger Picture

If shopping small isn’t an option, consider shopping local. Even chains and franchises that are locally owned contribute significantly to our economy. According to research by Civic Economics, locally owned businesses return more than three times as much money per dollar to their local economy than national chains.

For every $100 spent at a locally owned business, approximately $48 stays in the community, compared to just $14 from purchases at national chains. This money goes toward salaries, taxes, and other community investments that make Hancock County thrive.

The Benefits of Supporting Local Businesses

  1. Economic Growth: Money spent locally circulates within the community, creating jobs and funding essential services.
  2. Environmental Sustainability: Shopping local often reduces transportation costs and emissions associated with shipping.
  3. Unique Offerings: Local businesses provide one-of-a-kind products and personalized service, adding character to our community.
  4. Stronger Communities: Small business owners are more likely to reinvest in their communities, fostering a sense of connection and pride.

How You Can Help

This holiday season, think about how your spending impacts our community. Here are some ways to support small and local businesses:

  • Shop Small Business Saturday: Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 30th and commit to visiting local stores.
  • Buy Gift Cards: Gift cards from local businesses are a great way to introduce friends and family to Hancock County gems.
  • Dine Local: Choose locally owned restaurants for your holiday gatherings.
  • Spread the Word: Share your favorite local businesses on social media to help them gain more visibility.
  • Support Hancock Chamber Member Businesses: One study found that 63% of customers have a higher opinion of businesses that are chamber of commerce members giving you more credibility with potential customers. As your business’s positive perception increases, so will your profits as you establish credibility and brand recognition within your industry. For a complete list of members of the Hancock Chamber of Commerce go to www.hancockchamber.org.

Every purchase you make is a choice. By shopping small and local, you are making a choice to uplift our neighbors, strengthen our community, and ensure Hancock County’s future.

A Call to Action

The Hancock Chamber of Commerce invites you to make shopping small and local a priority—not just during the holiday season, but year-round. Together, we can make a big impact by focusing on the small businesses that make our community special.

Support Hancock County. Shop small. Shop local. Let’s keep our community thriving.

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