Investing in Local Businesses to Create Economic Growth and Stronger, More Resilient Neighborhoods

At REALgratitude, we’re committed to more than just real estate transactions—we’re passionate about building stronger, more connected communities. One of the most powerful ways we do this is by investing in local businesses. These small enterprises are the backbone of our neighborhoods, fueling economic growth, creating jobs, and fostering a unique sense of place. In this post, we’ll explore why supporting local businesses is crucial for creating vibrant, resilient neighborhoods and how REALgratitude integrates these partnerships into our mission. Why Supporting Local Businesses Matters Boosting the Local Economy Local businesses reinvest a significant portion of their earnings back into the community. According to studies, for every $100 spent at a local business, approximately $68 stays in the local economy, compared to just $43 when spent at a large chain. By supporting local businesses, we help keep money circulating within the community, which strengthens the local economy and benefits everyone—from schools to infrastructure. Job Creation and Stability Small businesses are essential job creators, providing employment opportunities for local residents. When local businesses thrive, they hire more employees, offer better wages, and contribute to overall job stability in the neighborhood. A strong local business ecosystem helps reduce unemployment rates and gives residents a sense of pride and purpose in their community. Fostering Unique Neighborhood Character Local businesses add character to the neighborhoods they serve. Whether it’s a beloved coffee shop, a boutique clothing store, or a neighborhood market, these businesses offer something unique that chain stores simply can’t replicate. Supporting local businesses preserves the individuality and charm of our communities, making them more appealing places to live and visit. Strengthening Community Bonds Local businesses often act as community hubs where people come together, whether it’s for a quick chat with the barista or a community event hosted by the local bookstore. These small interactions foster stronger connections between neighbors and help build a sense of belonging and trust within the community. Encouraging Sustainable Practices Small, local businesses are more likely to adopt sustainable practices, whether it’s sourcing products locally or reducing their carbon footprint. By supporting local enterprises, we encourage a more environmentally friendly approach to commerce, which benefits not only our communities but the planet as a whole. How REALgratitude Supports Local Businesses At REALgratitude, we take supporting local businesses to the next level. Every time we celebrate or promote a home sale, we partner with local businesses to create win-win opportunities for the community. Here’s how we integrate our passion for supporting local businesses into our real estate transactions: Spotlighting Local Businesses During Charity Campaigns When we close a home sale, we don’t just celebrate with our clients—we rally the neighborhood to support their favorite non-profit. As part of these campaigns, we spotlight a local business, giving them valuable exposure and helping them connect with new customers. By driving traffic to local businesses, we not only support their growth but also strengthen the local economy. Collaborating on Giveaways To further encourage community involvement, we partner with local businesses to offer a giveaway for one lucky donor who contributes to the charity we’re supporting. This creates excitement around the campaign, helps drive donations for a good cause, and gives the local business an opportunity to showcase their products or services to a wider audience. Driving Traffic and Building Engagement Our campaigns are designed to drive real traffic to local businesses. We promote these businesses across our social media platforms, in our newsletters, and through word-of-mouth in the communities where we operate. By partnering with REALgratitude, local businesses receive meaningful exposure, new customers, and a chance to give back to the community—all while being part of an initiative that uplifts neighborhoods. Want to Partner with Us? If you’re a local business owner and want to explore how partnering with REALgratitude can help boost your business while giving back to your community, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at barkley@realgratitude.org and let’s work together to make a positive impact. Know a local business owner who would benefit from this opportunity? Share this blog with them and help spread the word! At REALgratitude, we believe that along with death and taxes, real estate transactions are a certainty in life—and we’re committed to ensuring that every transaction contributes to a stronger, more resilient community. Together, let’s invest in our neighborhoods and create a brighter future, one real estate transaction at a time.