All Business is Local.
This week, in less than 24 hours, I came across two articles trumpeting much the same idea — that independently owned small businesses provide a way to jump-start the economy and salvage capitalism where the federal government and multinational corporations have failed.
Writing for Fast Company, Bruce Nussbaum names this trend “indie capitalism” and ascribes to it everything short of radioactive superpowers.
“It may prove to be the economic and social antidote to the failed financial capitalism and crony capitalism that no longer delivers economic value in terms of jobs, income, and taxes to the people of this country.”
Sarah van Gelder and Doug Pibel are similarly optimistic in the pages of YES! magazine:
“By buying goods and services locally and regionally, we keep money circulating in the Main Street economy, where new jobs are most likely to be created. Shop at a big box store, and the money goes to corporate headquarters almost immediately. Buy local food and your money stays home. We can also generate energy locally.”
Who’s Building the Do-It-Ourselves Economy? by Sarah van Gelder, Doug Pibel
Here in Greenfield, Massachusetts, we are lucky to be located in a community with a vibrant Main Street and a proud tradition of supporting independent businesses. Yes Exactly has been part of this trend from its earliest existence; our first customer was a local farm. Our creative process is adapted to fit the needs of small businesses and individuals —a decision that for me resonates from both a personal and business perspective.
Can independent, locally owned businesses single-handedly save the nation’s economy? That’s a tall order, especially given that small businesses typically receive the fewest government perks and face the highest costs for healthcare and other benefits.
One thing is for certain. Choose to patronize local businesses—restaurants, artisans, merchants, and service providers—on a daily basis and you will see immediate and tangible results in your community. Convince your friends and coworkers to do the same and the impact grows.
We are part of the solution. The more we support each other, the stronger we become.
Tess Gadwa
Founder, Yes Exactly Web Design