Showcasing Grand Island Small Businesses with a Week of Activities

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KSNB) – One of the main missions of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce is to encourage the community to shop locally. There are many benefits for Grand Island, and for each of us, in choosing to shop at local businesses.

When you buy items locally rather than online, you’re not only supporting that local business owner, but the local community as a whole.

Small businesses are a big part of what makes Grand Island so special. With over 150,000 small businesses in Nebraska, it is crucial that the community make conscious decisions to shop at local small businesses rather than sending money outside the community.

During Small Business Week, May 1 through May 7, the Grand Island Chamber and Look Local Grow Local invite the Grand Island community to get involved in supporting local small businesses. The week-long initiative includes daily activities of small challenges that make a big difference.

Entrants are also encouraged to document their participation by posting photos using the hashtag #GIShopSmall or tagging the @LookLocalGrowLocal Facebook page that will be featured throughout the week.

Weekly activities include:

Sunday May 1st is “Funday Sunday”

To start the week, Grand Islanders are encouraged to get out and try something new for them, whether it’s a new business, a museum, a recreational activity or a neighborhood of the city. Grand Island is full of hidden gems and new businesses are opening all the time!

Monday May 2 is “Make It Happen”

Don’t let the Monday blues get you down – make Monday a great day by doing a few things that will make your life better. Make a doctor’s appointment, review your insurance policy, or open a savings account, to name a few.

Tuesday, May 3 is “Tuesday to go”

There’s no need to cook when Grand Island is full of local restaurants. Try a new one or opt for an old favorite for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Don’t have time for the full dinner experience? Order takeout or drive through to show your support.

Wednesday, May 4 is “Wear It Wednesday”

With spring upon us and summer upon us, it might be time to add some new additions to your wardrobe. Join us on Wear It Wednesday by visiting a local boutique or specialty store for a new pair of shoes, outfit, accessory or hair product.

Thursday, May 5 is “Grateful Thursday”

Small businesses and organizations play an important role in the continued growth of our community. Many Grand Island organizations could use some extra help in the form of volunteering or donations. On Grateful Thursday, Grand Islanders are encouraged to support local nonprofits by donating, volunteering or spreading the word. Be sure to check out Go Big GIVE for an easy way to support local organizations.

Friday, May 6 is “Fix It Friday”

You come home every day and see things you want to fix in your house, but it usually ends up on that endless to-do list. On Fix It Friday, take the time to visit your local hardware store and shop for tools to check out a few items on this list. If you’re not very skilled, set aside time to “fix” yourself by getting a haircut, manicure, or facial at a local salon.

Saturday, May 7 is “Shout Out Saturday”

Perhaps one of the easiest ways to support a local small business is to share information about that business with others. This can happen in many ways, such as sharing with friends, family and colleagues through word of mouth, social media or displaying goods and services in your daily life.

There are seven days of activities to support small businesses on Grand Island in honor of Small Business Week, but the efforts aren’t expected to stop after a few days. Think small, local first. Buy small and local when you can. Do your part to help Grand Island grow