We often talk about how supporting locally-owned Denton businesses is what keeps us unique and what keeps us “Denton”. When our local economy was first shaken up by the pandemic, Dentonites rallied behind the business community to support the families and friends who own and work in these establishments.

And we can do it again this National Small Business Week. Even with inflation, supply chain issues, and the labor shortage affecting many of our local businesses, this doesn’t have to be a tough year for our neighbors. It’s time to double down and support the Denton businesses we love.

According to Entrepreneur Magazine, “when a consumer buys local, significantly more of that money stays in the community. In fact, one study found that for every $100 spent at a local business, $68 remained in the community with only $43 of each $100 spent at a chain retailer.” According to the small business support organization Independent We Stand, “If every family in the country shifted $10 a month to locally-owned, independent businesses instead of national chains, over $9.3 billion* would be directly returned to local economies.”

We all shop chain retailers. Many of these businesses are Chamber Members, and they are a vital part of any community. However, what is truly going to keep Denton’s economy alive is putting dollars into the hands of our small businesses. These businesses employ Dentonites. They support local kids’ extracurricular activities and sports leagues. They donate time and effort to local non-profits. We are one community with one goal, and that is to make Denton the best place to live, work and play.

The Denton Chamber of Commerce is bringing back the $100 Challenge for the third year. Shift $100 of your spending budget to a locally owned, independent business. If you don’t have $100, spend $50. If you don’t have $50, spend $10. Do what feels best for your own financial situation. Purchasing a gift card or voucher from these businesses helps exponentially. Click HERE to see a list of local Chamber Members to show a little love to.  

SHOP Denton, support your community, and make a significant difference in the lives of your neighbors. Be kind to employees, servers, owners, and other patrons trying to do their jobs and accomplish their tasks. We’re all in this together.

Share this challenge with friends and family. Post about it on social media with the hashtags #ShopSmallChallenge, #100DollarChallenge and #DentonMeansBusiness. Check in to and tag these businesses on social media and post pics of who you are supporting.

One community. One goal. Let’s get out there and do good for our community as we celebrate National Small Business Week.