Let’s face it, times are tough. With rising costs and tighter budgets, it’s not always possible to make a purchase, even when you want to support a local shop you love. The good news? Supporting small businesses doesn’t always require spending money.

Whether you're between paychecks or just trying to stick to a budget, there are still meaningful ways to help small businesses thrive. Here are six completely free ways to show your support.

1. Follow and Engage on Social Media

Boost Visibility for Free
One of the easiest (and most powerful) things you can do is follow your favorite local shops on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok. Like their posts, leave a comment, and share them in your stories. Every interaction helps boost their reach and gets their products in front of more people.

Tip: Save their posts, too! It tells the algorithm their content is valuable.

Add us: @Ethical.Local.Market

2. Write a Positive Review

Help Them Shine Online
A glowing review on Google, Yelp, or Facebook can go a long way. It helps small businesses rank higher in search results and builds trust with potential customers. Share your honest experience, it means more than you know.

Add a Google Review

3. Tell Your Friends

Word-of-Mouth Still Works
Talk about your favorite local businesses in conversations, group chats, or even during coffee breaks at work. If someone’s looking for a gift, a service, or a recommendation, suggest a small business you love.

Bonus: Tag a friend in a small business’s Instagram post or forward their newsletter to someone who might be interested.

4. Sign Up for Their Email List

Stay Connected and Show You Care
Newsletters are a major part of how local shops share updates, promotions, and upcoming events. When you sign up, it tells the business, “I’m interested and rooting for you.” Plus, you’ll be the first to know when you can afford to shop again.

Head to Our Website to sign up

5. Attend Free Community Events

Show Up and Be Present
 Many small businesses host free markets, product launches, art shows, or in-store pop-ups. Your presence adds energy, community spirit, and sometimes even helps them look busier (which can encourage other people to stop in too!).

6. Share Their Content or Tag Them in Stories

Spread the Word Without Spending a Dollar
Reshare a product post, tag them in your story, or highlight a local shop on your feed. These free acts of promotion increase awareness and help bring in new customers. Even a simple “Check this place out!” makes a difference.

Final Thought

You don’t need to spend money to make a big impact. Small businesses rely on the community, and you are a vital part of that. Whether you’re sharing a post, leaving a review, or simply cheering them on, your support matters more than you think.

So, next time you’re wondering how to help, remember: you can still support small businesses without spending a penny. Every kind word, share, and action counts.