Supporting local does not have to break the bank. There are many ways you can support local businesses without having to get that cash or card out at all. How? Below are several ways you can support those businesses in your community for free. That's correct for FREE!

1. Engage with their Social Media
Businesses spend a lot of time creating and posting things to get their customers' attention and interaction. One thing you can do is engage. Like a post, comment on a post, or share a post to get local businesses out there. 

2. Leave Reviews
Google reviews is one tool that many use to get reviews on a restaurant or business. You may have used it yourself. However, have you ever been the one who has left a review for a business? You received exemplary service, you had an issue that someone was able to resolve, or maybe you just had a down day, and the employee's good attitude made your day brighter. Did you leave a review? Leaving a review is a no-cost way to bring attention to the business, and every good review will influence someone else to go there too. 

3. Share Events
Sharing events is an easy way to help a local business reach an audience it may otherwise lack access to. Your friends, family, and acquaintances could be their next customers. Events help businesses reach the community, share their brand, and connect with current and potential customers, so make sure the next time you see a business holding something special, you let your circle of people know about it. 

4. Share a Story
Local businesses can impact the community in several ways. Did you know that local businesses are more likely to donate to local needs, sponsor teams, or donate to help? Many people have been impacted by a local business. Have you? Share your story! People love to hear good things, and your good experience with a business could cause them to try it out, too. Does the business itself have a good story? Share that too! Maybe a local business is run by a single mom who worked hard to make it and became successful, or maybe multiple failures finally turned into success, or maybe tragedy birthed a business. Share the story.

Belief = Action 
If you believe in shopping local, then act! Take these simple, free tips and make an impact on your local businesses. It is free and makes a difference!