How To Support Local Businesses After Relocating To Austin

Moving to a new city can be an exciting adventure and experience. It can also be a little daunting, especially when it comes to finding all the best local spots and making new friends in a new city. 

Austin is known for its local business-friendly environment, so we've put together a list of 10 ways you can support local businesses after you relocate.

Research Local Businesses in Austin, TX

When it comes to supporting local businesses, the key is doing your research beforehand —what stores, restaurants, farmers markets—wherever else you might want to patronize. 

Take some time to find out which local businesses offer the goods and services that are most important to you. Once you do some research into the right ones for you, no matter where you live, you'll have access to amazing products and services while continuing to strengthen the small business community as a whole.

Visit the Physical Stores of the Businesses

Moving to Austin can be a bit overwhelming, especially when it comes to becoming accustomed to the local lifestyle. 

There are plenty of amazing businesses and services around town that make the transition easier. It's worthwhile to put in an effort and visit as many of these local businesses as possible. Doing so also sends a message of support, which is invaluable to our community-based economy.

Spread the Work With Your Friends and Family

Supporting local businesses can be a great way to make your new city feel like home. Share the best donut shops for dessert after dinner or recommend a great tacos spot for lunch. Word of mouth goes a long way. If someone in your network asks what your favorite places are in town you now have an answer. 

Leave Positive Reviews

One great way to show your support to local businesses is by leaving them positive reviews online. It doesn't take long to write a review on Google, Yelp, or Facebook Reviews. Besides positive reviews, you can also leave recommendations and suggestions on how a local business can improve their service for their customers. This can help contribute to their growth and customer experience.

So whether it's finding that perfect cup of coffee or getting an amazing haircut from your new favorite stylist, leaving positive online reviews whenever you can benefit both you and your community for many years to come.

Be Involved in Community Events

After moving to a new city like Austin, getting involved with the local community is a great way to settle in and find your place, network, and meet new friends. One fantastic way to do this is to partake in any events that celebrate local businesses.

These events can range from food festivals, markets, or even music concerts - all of which are chock-full of opportunities both big and small to learn more about not only the region but also the talented entrepreneurs that call it home. Your nearest Farmer’s Market could be a great start to getting involved!

Participate in Loyalty Program

Participating in loyalty programs can be a great way to support your favorite local businesses while also enjoying some perks and discounts. These programs are typically free to join and offer rewards for frequent customers, such as discounts on purchases, free items, or special promotions.

You are not only supporting the business financially, but you are also building a relationship with them by participating in these programs. This can lead to a more personalized experience, as businesses often use loyalty programs to offer exclusive deals to their most loyal customers.

Volunteer in Local Business Organizations

Austin has many organizations dedicated to supporting and promoting local businesses. Volunteer with these organizations to help them achieve their goals and support the local business community. You can search for local businesses in the Austin Local Business Alliance directory and begin from there.

Buy Gift Cards

Buying gift cards for local businesses is a great way to support them financially while also giving a gift to someone special. Gift cards are an easy way to give a thoughtful gift that allows the recipient to choose exactly what they want from the business.

You are helping to support their cash flow and ensure that they are able to stay open and continue serving their customers by purchasing from a local business. This is especially important during times when businesses may be facing economic challenges or uncertainty.

Join Local Facebook Groups

Joining local Facebook groups can be an awesome way to discover new local businesses within your area. These groups are often specific to neighborhoods or areas of town, making it easier to connect with businesses that are close to you.

You can find members sharing information about local businesses that they have tried and enjoyed or asking for recommendations for specific products or services. You can discover new businesses that you may not have known about otherwise by participating in these group conversations.

There are also many local businesses that use Facebook to promote their products and services, so by joining these groups, you can stay up-to-date on events, promotions, and new products from local businesses.

Shop Local

Staying connected with your community is a great way to make the most of your new home, and you can do so by supporting local businesses whenever you can! Shopping at local stores and avoiding national chain stores is a really positive way to contribute to your area, as it helps ensure that money stays within the local economy. 

Not only does this benefit local business owners, but it can also mean more jobs and opportunities in the area - plus it's always nice to meet friendly faces around town when you're out shopping.

Supporting Local Businesses in Austin, TX

With its booming economy, population growth, and vibrant local culture, Austin is no doubt a great place to live. That said, the city's success is due in large part to its resilient local businesses - so it's more important than ever to get out there and support those small enterprises however you can.

Are you considering moving to Austin, Texas? Click here to speak to a real estate consultant! To learn more about Austin relocation, visit our Austin Relocation Services page.