Why Supporting Small Businesses Matters More Than Ever
Small Businesses as the Heart of America—and the Heart of the Northwoods
Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are often hailed as the backbone of America, and for good reason. Around 99% of all U.S. companies have fewer than five employees, and nearly 98% have under 100 employees. These businesses drive the majority of the nation’s new jobs and account for half of our GDP. However, recent discussions and interviews with small-business advocates reveal that the federal government’s procurement practices and legislative priorities often overlook this vital sector—despite small businesses’ pivotal role in driving innovation, creating jobs, and nurturing local economies.
Here in the Northwoods region, we see firsthand the challenges small businesses face: from federal procurement biases favoring large corporations, to limited marketing resources, to the everyday hurdles of digital transformation. Yet even in the midst of these challenges, local entrepreneurs continue to demonstrate the resourcefulness, passion, and sense of community that make small businesses so essential. At Northwoods Ventures, we recognize this potential and have committed ourselves to amplifying the voices of local entrepreneurs, celebrating their stories, and providing them with tangible tools to thrive in the modern world.
Why Small Businesses Matter—Nationally and Locally
National Impact
Nationwide, the influence of small businesses cannot be overstated:
They are major job creators: Over 98% of all net new jobs originate from small businesses.
They contribute to over half the GDP: SMBs collectively represent a significant slice of the U.S. economy.
They embody American innovation: Many groundbreaking products and services start as small ventures, leading the way in creativity and agility.
They anchor community well-being: SMBs often function as neighborhood hubs, offering personalized service, diverse products, and a sense of place that big-box stores and large corporations can’t replicate.
However, the discrepancy between how crucial small businesses are and how they are treated in the public sector—particularly in government procurement—remains concerning. Laws like the 1953 Small Business Act mandate that at least 23% of all federal contracts should go to small businesses, yet many studies suggest the actual figure hovers around a fraction of that. In practice, large corporations often dominate, capturing the vast majority of government spending and leaving local entrepreneurs at a disadvantage.
Northwoods Significance
What does this mean for smaller, more rural communities like those in the Northwoods? Local economies here rely heavily on tourism, artisanal crafts, outdoor adventure services, and the unique experiences small businesses bring to visitors and residents alike. From boutique cafes and artisanal craft stores to adventure tourism providers, these enterprises shape the Northwoods’ identity and define the regional culture.
Yet, small businesses in such areas face additional challenges: geographic isolation, limited broadband infrastructure, and fewer networking opportunities. That’s where Northwoods Group steps in, dedicating resources to ensure that these essential pillars of our communities not only survive but thrive.
Supporting and Celebrating Local Entrepreneurs
At Northwoods Group, our mission is to strengthen and empower the small businesses that form the bedrock of the Northwoods. Recognizing the pressing need to connect local entrepreneurs with modern tools, marketing channels, and collaborative networks, we have developed several key initiatives:
Northwoods Business Directory
A central part of our strategy involves creating a new digital hub that supports and showcases local businesses. Our Northwoods Business Directory that will be launched this spring offers:
Affordable Listings
We provide budget-friendly listings that give small businesses visibility at both local and regional levels. Whether it’s a family-owned restaurant or a tech startup operating out of a home office, we want every entrepreneur to be discoverable by locals and visitors alike.Media Features
Storytelling is vital in today’s digital world. Through engaging video and blog content, we spotlight the unique journeys and offerings of businesses across our region. It’s one thing to say you sell artisanal jams or handcrafted furniture—it’s another to share the story behind the product, the inspiration, and the personal touch that makes it special.Community Resources
The directory doesn’t just advertise businesses; it serves as a community hub, providing information on local services, events, and attractions. Residents and tourists alike can quickly find what they need, from the best hiking spots to the coziest bed-and-breakfasts, boosting the entire local ecosystem.
Digital Freelance Services
In an increasingly digital economy, having a strong online presence is non-negotiable. Yet, many small businesses lack the time, expertise, or budget to manage social media campaigns or optimize e-commerce platforms. That’s why Northwoods Group offers customized Digital Freelance Services:
Website Design & Optimization: From building a user-friendly website to implementing best practices for search engine optimization (SEO), we help businesses stand out online.
Content Creation: We handle blog posts, social media updates, and newsletters so that entrepreneurs can focus on what they do best—serving their customers.
Analytics & Reporting: Understanding consumer data is critical in today’s market. Our team provides tailored reports and insights to help SMBs make informed decisions and pivot quickly when needed.
Challenges Facing Small Businesses and How We Address Them
While the importance of small businesses is undeniable, they continue to face considerable obstacles:
Federal Procurement Bias:
Laws like the 1953 Small Business Act were intended to ensure that at least 23% of federal contracts go to small businesses. In practice, loopholes and ambiguous reporting can result in large corporations taking the lion’s share of government spending. This lack of transparency not only stifles fair competition but also robs communities of the economic ripple effect that comes from contracting with local enterprises.Operational Costs and Technology Adoption:
Even if they sidestep procurement issues, small businesses grapple with rising costs—rent, labor, and particularly technology investments. Without sufficient capital, it’s hard to keep pace with rapid changes in e-commerce, data analytics, and digital marketing.Limited Access to Training and Networking:
Rural communities may lack the business incubators, co-working spaces, and professional workshops more commonly found in urban centers. This isolation can hinder collaborative problem-solving and slow the exchange of ideas that often fuels innovation.
Northwoods Ventures’ Response
Reducing Barriers: We provide free or low-cost workshops on digital marketing, e-commerce basics, and customer engagement. By partnering with chambers of commerce, tourism boards, and economic development agencies, we reach more entrepreneurs who can benefit from these resources.
Tailored Solutions: We focus on individualized consulting rather than one-size-fits-all approaches. Every business has unique needs, and our goal is to ensure that each receives the strategy and support necessary to succeed.
Community-First Initiatives: Whether it’s an outdoor festival or a collaborative marketing campaign, we emphasize local engagement. By hosting events that feature small businesses—like farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and adventure tours—we drive foot traffic to these establishments, strengthening local networks and boosting overall regional tourism.
Keys To Building a Thriving, Sustainable Ecosystem
Small businesses are more than their balance sheets; they’re cultural anchors, community builders, and drivers of innovation. By combining community engagement, digital transformation, and sustainable growth strategies, Northwoods Group envisions a region where entrepreneurs have the support they need, and residents and visitors alike can enjoy the fruits of their creativity.
Engagement Through Storytelling
Every small business has a story—an origin, a challenge, a triumph—and sharing these stories fosters connection. Through our blog, YouTube channel, and in-person events, we celebrate the individuals behind Northwoods-based enterprises and inspire fellow entrepreneurs to continue forging their own paths.
Partnerships with Local Organizations
Collaboration is key to achieving large-scale impact. That’s why we actively seek partnerships with local schools, tourism boards, and civic leaders. By uniting around a common goal—regional prosperity—we multiply our collective resources and create a stronger, more supportive network.
Empowerment Through Education
Sustainability hinges on adaptability. By offering free or subsidized workshops on topics like digital marketing, financial planning, or customer service, we ensure that small businesses keep pace with market trends. Continuous learning isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for survival and growth in today’s fast-changing economy.
Support the Northwoods, Support Small Businesses
Small businesses across the country—and especially here in the Northwoods—are the bedrock of vibrant communities. By shopping local, partnering with local vendors, and engaging with community initiatives, you play a direct role in sustaining the heartbeat of our region.
Explore the Northwoods Business Directory: Discover local gems you never knew existed, and help spread the word by sharing your favorites with friends and family.
Utilize Our Digital Freelance Services: If you’re a business owner, see how we can help you broaden your online footprint and captivate new audiences.
Join the Conversation: Follow our social media channels and connect with fellow entrepreneurs. Together, we can swap ideas, troubleshoot common hurdles, and cheer each other on.
Final Thoughts
Small businesses are at a crossroads. On one hand, they possess unmatched potential to drive economic growth and innovation. On the other, they face systemic challenges—from government policies favoring larger corporations to the cost of keeping up with an ever-evolving digital landscape. Northwoods Group stands ready to bridge that gap by offering resources, expertise, and community support that help these businesses seize opportunities and sidestep pitfalls.
We invite you—residents, tourists, and small-business advocates—to join us in this mission. By celebrating and supporting small businesses, we lay the foundation for a robust, authentic, and inclusive economy. Together, we can ensure that the backbone of America remains not only resilient but also a vibrant driver of social and economic well-being—right here in the Northwoods and beyond.
