Helping small businesses start and thrive is a win-win situation for the government. Local businesses support the tax base through business taxes and by providing wages to employees.

The possibility of workforce expansion and economic growth prompts municipalities, counties, states, and the federal government to offer various forms of assistance, such as grants, research opportunities, beneficial legislation, and worker training programs.

Government procurement

Small businesses should be given a real advantage in procurement. Procurement policies and processes must be clear, protective, and accessible to small business owners, not a maze that ends up only helping big corporations.

Ensure they get good advice

One of the biggest decisions many small business owners will face is whether to borrow money to keep their business going or cut their losses. That’s something for which they should get sound professional advice.

But when small businesses are cash-strapped, cutting back spending on advisers such as lawyers and accountants can be an obvious way to save money.

Invest in workforce training programs aimed toward future economic activity. 

Charlotte, North Carolina, has invested in a workforce training and placement program that targets fields in which the city would like to grow, specifically advanced tech and renewable energy.

Create centralized, user-friendly websites for businesses. 

Birmingham, Alabama; Oakland, California; and Boston, Massachusetts are all examples of cities that have created websites to give businesses better access to information, as well as resources on transitioning to an online/delivery-based economy.

Facilitate customer and market research

Government agencies like Statistics Canada and the U.S. Census Bureau are invaluable resources for market researchers. If you’re looking for information about a new geographic market, household spending patterns, or a particular market segment, start with the free research available from these organizations.

Find a new market for your product or service

Governments purchase billions of dollars’ worth of goods and services every year, including construction materials, office supplies, food, and consulting services. Your small business may be the new supplier your local government needs!

Build your public profile

Invite a local politician to attend your store opening or business event to get media attention. Alternatively, participate in a government advisory committee or contribute when asked for input on policy issues that will have an impact on your business.

These are great ways to have input into government decisions, and they can also lead to public recognition for you and your small business.

We have always emphasized the importance of having a good website for your company because it can act as your best tool for marketing and sales. A poorly designed website can repulse people from your business and can cause you to lose customers before you even have them. Get in touch with HyperEffects to work on creating, enhancing, and making the website of your company more user-friendly.