Smart Cents

May is National Small Business Month and is a great time to recognize the entrepreneurs who bring our neighborhoods to life. Supporting local businesses is one of the best ways to invest in your community—keeping dollars local and fueling economic growth. The impact is seen through job creation, innovation, and the energy they bring to our towns and cities.

Small businesses are the heart of our communities, which we understand firsthand. We began as a small, local business and, over 120 years later, we remain a proud community bank rooted in Idaho and Utah. In honor of National Small Business Month, we’re sharing five simple but meaningful ways to support small businesses in your neck of the woods:

1. Shop Local First
   Choose local retailers, restaurants, and service providers whenever possible. Every purchase you make keeps money circulating within your community and helps small businesses thrive.
2. Spread the Word
   Leave positive reviews on Google, Yelp, or other platforms, and recommend your favorite spots to friends and family. Word-of-mouth remains one of the most powerful tools for small business growth.
3. Buy Gift Cards
   Purchasing gift cards is a great way to provide immediate support and a great way to encourage others to try local businesses in the future.
4. Attend Local Markets & Events
   Farmers markets, craft fairs, and community pop-ups are great opportunities to meet and support local makers and entrepreneurs directly.
5. Engage Online
   Follow and interact with small businesses on social media, sign up for their newsletters, and engage with their content. Your engagement helps boost their visibility and connect them with new customers.

As a community bank, we’re proud to stand beside the small businesses that power our local economy. To all the small businesses in Idaho and Utah—thank you, and we celebrate you this month and every month!