Checking in with the chamber: Buy local for Small Business Month
An investment in the ‘heartbeat’ of the Swannanoa Valley
Cheryl Hyde
Guest contributor
The Valley Echo
May 22, 2025
Cheryl Hyde, pictured with Sasha, is the executive director of the Black Mountain - Swannanoa Chamber of Commerce. Courtesy photo
May is Small Business Month—a time to recognize and support the heartbeat of our community: local entrepreneurs. What does it truly mean when you choose to shop at a small business instead of a big-box retailer?
The Ripple Effect of Each Dollar
When you spend $10 at a local business, approximately $7.50 stays within our community. This isn't just a number—it's the lifeblood of local economies. Small businesses are more likely to purchase goods and services from local suppliers, hire local employees, and reinvest in community initiatives like the Chamber of Commerce and other nonprofits. This creates a multiplier effect, where each dollar spent circulates several times within the local economy, fostering growth and resilience.
More Than Just a Purchase
Supporting small businesses is about more than acquiring goods or services; it's about investing in the dreams and aspirations of your neighbors. Each purchase contributes to the livelihood of local families, supports community projects, and helps maintain the unique character of our neighborhoods. On a national level, small business makes up 60% of the economy; a surprising percentage.
Tourism: A Lifeline for Local Businesses
Tourism has traditionally been a significant source of revenue for many of our small businesses. Visitors spend money on accommodations, dining, shopping, and entertainment, providing a crucial income stream for local establishments. However, word on Cherry Street has shown a downturn in tourism, impacting businesses that rely heavily on seasonal visitors. For instance, some areas have reported a 60% drop when compared to the same time last year, leading to concerns about the sustainability of local businesses during off-peak seasons.
How You Can Make an Impact
This Small Business Month, consider the power of your choices. Whether it's grabbing a coffee from a local café, shopping at a neighborhood boutique, or dining at a family-owned restaurant, your support matters. Every dollar you spend locally helps build a stronger, more vibrant community.
Remember, when you choose local, you're choosing to invest in the place we all call home. Let's make this Small Business Month a celebration of community, connection, and the incredible impact of shopping small.
Cheryl Hyde is the executive director of the Black Mountain-Swannanoa Chamber of Commerce, which has been working to connect businesses and build community since 1923. The nonprofit organization promotes more than 200 members and supports the Swannanoa Valley as a voice for local business owners.