As the holiday season kicks off, Black Friday traditionally marks one of the busiest shopping days of the year. While many people think of big-box stores or large online retailers, this season offers an important opportunity to shift our focus closer to home and toward the small businesses that form the backbone of our communities.
At Capital Strategic Solutions, we work closely with towns, cities, and local organizations across the region. In every community we serve, one thing remains constant: small businesses play a vital role in local culture, economic resilience, and community identity. Supporting them on Black Friday and throughout the holiday season helps strengthen the places we call home.
Why Supporting Small Businesses Matters
They Drive Local Economic Growth
Small businesses keep dollars circulating within the community. For every purchase made locally, more of that money stays locally, funding public services, supporting jobs, and contributing to a stronger, more sustainable local economy.
They Bring Character and Vibrancy to Main Street
Independent shops, restaurants, artisans, and service providers shape the unique personality of each community. They offer experiences and products you simply can’t find anywhere else.
They Create Jobs and Opportunities
Each small business is more than a storefront — it’s a local employer. Supporting these businesses helps maintain jobs for neighbors, friends, and families.
They Foster Community Connections
Small business owners are often deeply woven into the fabric of the community. They sponsor youth sports teams, participate in local events, and contribute to charitable causes.
How You Can Support Small Businesses This Black Friday
Shop Locally First
Before heading to larger retailers, consider exploring your local shops for holiday gifts, household items, or specialty products. Many businesses offer Black Friday deals or Small Business Saturday promotions.
Dine at Local Restaurants
Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast before shopping or enjoying a family dinner, choosing a locally owned restaurant helps support your town’s culinary scene.
Buy Gift Cards
Gift cards to local shops, cafés, or service providers are a perfect way to support a business now while giving someone the chance to enjoy it later.
Shop Online: Locally
Many small businesses now offer online stores, curbside pickup, or delivery. Supporting them doesn’t always require a trip downtown.
Spread the Word
Sometimes support is as simple as sharing a post, leaving a review, or recommending a favorite place to a friend. Word-of-mouth remains one of the most powerful tools small businesses have.
Building Stronger Communities, Together
At Capital Strategic Solutions, we are committed to helping communities thrive, through strategic planning, operational support, and initiatives that promote strong, connected local economies. Supporting small businesses during the holiday season is one simple but meaningful way we can all contribute to the long-term health and vibrancy of the places we live and work.
This Black Friday, we encourage you to explore your own community, discover new local favorites, and celebrate the small businesses that make your town unique.
Wishing everyone a safe, joyful, and community-centered start to the holiday season!
About Capital Strategic Solutions
CSS is a certified woman-owned, disadvantaged business enterprise of municipal experts delivering creative, cost-effective solutions that maximize success and minimize risk. With deep local government expertise, we craft tailored strategies to meet each community’s unique needs.
Our capabilities span public administration, municipal finance, human resources, policy development, emergency management, public safety, public works, water operations, interim municipal services, public relations, community engagement, project management, grant writing, and onsite support. We partner with clients to define clear goals, overcome challenges, and implement human-centered plans that drive performance and transform communities.