10 Ways to Be A Superhero for Local Businesses During COVID-19

Things seem to be changing so fast lately, and we’re right there with you. At Valpak, we’re doing our best to take care of our families, friends and co-workers and know that you’re doing the same. But if you’re reading this, here’s some good news: We have the power to help each other through this unprecedented time, starting in our own neighborhoods.

From the healthcare industry to grocery stores to delivery drivers and countless others, we’re lucky to have had so many step up in our communities to guide us through an experience that seems unreal. If there was ever a time for superheroes like them, we’re living in it. But did you know that you also have a superpower? Yes, you! It’s helping small businesses in your community.

We’ve all been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing recommendations, and small businesses are no exception. Luckily, there are still things we can do to shape our response and be the superheroes they need, when they need them the most.

As small businesses ourselves, Valpak offices across America understand this and are activating to help others face the challenges they’re up against. We’re here to support them by lending an ear, brainstorming real, out-of-the-box marketing plans and connecting them to the superhero customers they depend on. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our local economies. Let’s suit up and stand up for them!

Ready to go on your superhero’s journey? Ditch the disguise, grab your cape and start with these 10 ideas:

1. Local eats, delivered! Do something delicious to support your local eateries. Food delivery services are still operating, working with businesses in your area to keep them up and running. Download apps like Noco Nosh, Grubhub, Uber Eats and DoorDash for contact-free delivery and pickup options in your neighborhood. Hungry for more? Click here to find coupons for local restaurants and give yourself a break from leftovers.
2. Gift cards, gift cards, gift cards. Invest in your local businesses and show them you know they’ll make it through this, stronger than ever. Purchasing a gift card, certificate or voucher helps free up cash flow for the business and is a great option for any local restaurant or retailer. Let them know: “You’ll be back, and so will I!”
3. Shop local online. You don’t even have to leave your home office (i.e., couch) for this one, superhero! Hit the Web to see if your local favorites are open for business online. Buying goods (or gift cards… hint, hint) online and having them shipped to your door is another way you can support businesses, all without getting out of your pjs. Sheltering at home or don’t feel comfortable in a crowded market? Hit up apps like Instacart or use King Sooper's Clicklist for grocery delivery and get more for your money with grocery savings in your area.
4. Get vocal for your local. Write a glowing review for your neighborhood standby on Facebook, Yelp or Google and let the world know how phenomenal they are. You can also promote businesses on social media, an awesome option if you can’t afford to spend a lot of cash. Word of mouth is free and you can really come to the rescue of a struggling business this way.
5. Prime (home improvement) time. With so many people staying home, now is the perfect time to update your space. From home offices to long-neglected projects around the house, you can help local businesses that are still open by purchasing materials or services that don’t require contact. Think furniture delivery, no-touch automotive services, pet grooming, home and garden services and more. Click here for some super savings on professional services.
6. Get personal. We’ve been checking in with our advertising partners to see how they’re doing and what we can do to help. You can do this too! Drop a personal note or make a call to a local business to find out how they’re holding up. Taking the time to ask about their needs can help give them the strength they need to persevere. What a super way to show you care, neighbor!
7. Rebalance the budget. If you had to cancel a vacation due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, use the money to tackle a big-ticket project. That hair or nail appointment that was already accounted for? Can you pay for it anyway? Saving money on gas by telecommuting? Allocate the funds for an online shopping spree to stimulate the local economy.
8. Keep moving, keep supporting. Local gyms, fitness clubs and yoga studios are adapting, offering streaming classes to the public (often at no cost). Don’t let a home-bound schedule keep you from your fitness goals – check out a class and consider donating to the business, then promoting them to your network. They keep us healthy, so let’s return the favor!
9. The power of communication. Talk to local businesses about options. Many are adjusting on the fly, offering services and products that you may not be aware of yet. Get flexible with reservations and cancelling services, helping them preserve cash flow as much as possible. Valpak is working with small businesses to keep their advertising current and responsive to their needs; you can help on your end by taking them up on new offers.
10. Support local employees. Know your barista by name? Local pizza place got your order memorized? With many establishments struggling or closed for business, their employees may be in trouble. If you’re in a position to help, call around to find out which have set up crowdfunding campaigns for their employees – our neighbors – and donate what you can. Also, some delivery services are hiring shoppers and delivery drivers to keep up with surging demand. Pass the word along to out-of-work employees!

Ok, maybe we can’t leap buildings in a single bound, but we can still be superheroes for small businesses. Valpak stands with our local advertisers and you, our valued customer and neighbor, as we work together to maintain the health of our families and communities. We urge you to join us and continue to “Open the Neighborhood”, doing all that you can to buy local and support economies in your area.
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While you’re out saving the world, we’ll be here keeping you connected to local businesses so you can check in, find deals and show your support. Valpak is the original stimulus package, and with you as our partner, we’re an unstoppable small business booster. Thank you to all the superheroes out there – keep yourselves and your neighborhoods safe and healthy!