Minnesota is being asked to shop local in practical, peaceful ways. Here are simple actions that help small businesses during a time of fear, uncertainty, and reduced foot traffic.
February is Shop Local Month. Here are easy, concrete ways to help local and immigrant-owned businesses facing reduced foot traffic.
This week Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) created a new campaign called “Shop Local, Stand Together.” The goal is simple: encourage Minnesotans to support locally owned businesses that have seen reduced foot traffic and increased fear and uncertainty during the ongoing federal presence in our state.
February has been proclaimed Shop Local Month in Minnesota, and this campaign is one way to keep money circulating in our neighborhoods, especially for small businesses and immigrant-owned businesses who’ve been hit the hardest.
What “Shop Local, Stand Together” means in real life
You don’t need a big plan. You just need a few intentional choices:
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Buy the thing locally if you can (a gift, a meal, a coffee, a service).
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Show up in person if it feels safe, or order online if it doesn’t.
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Tell a friend one place you love (a quick recommendation does more than you think).
That’s it. Small, peaceful, actionable support.
If you want to help right now, here are 5 easy ways
Pick one:
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Grab takeout from a locally owned spot this week.
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Buy a gift card from a neighborhood business.
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Try one business you’ve never tried before.
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Leave a short review for a place you already love.
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Share a local business on your social media (tag them so it helps).
For business owners who need support
There are also resources mobilizing for small businesses facing urgent challenges. One example: The Minneapolis Foundation activated an Economic Response Fund, launching $3.5 million in grants to support small businesses facing urgent needs like payroll, rent, staffing, and inventory.
If you’ve been feeling heavy lately, you’re not alone. And if you’ve been wondering what to do, this is one option that’s concrete and kind: support a small business on purpose.