10/02/2026
Unpopular opinion: Asking a small business for a sponsorship or donation isn’t “supporting small business” if the only time you support that business is when you need something from them.
I’m probably going to ruffle some feathers, but it needs to be said.
Small businesses are CONSTANTLY asked to sponsor teams, donate gift cards, provide products or services, discount orders, and contribute to fundraisers. And most of us WANT to give back to our communities when we can!
But here’s the question: Do you support those same businesses when you don’t need something from them?
If you ask a local apparel company to donate $500 but order your shirts online because they’re a few dollars cheaper, are you supporting local?
If you ask a restaurant for a $100 gift card but never eat there, recommend them, or send customers their way, is that a partnership?
If you ask a business to sponsor your child’s team but have never purchased from them, shared their work, referred a customer, or even engaged with their posts, what makes this a two-way relationship?
Community support shouldn’t be a one-way street.
This isn’t about saying small businesses should never donate. We love giving back when we’re able! But donations and sponsorships come out of REAL revenue, REAL time, and REAL resources.
Behind every small business is a person paying bills, supporting a family, purchasing supplies, and working hard to keep their business running.
Before asking for a donation, consider whether you’ve supported that business, referred someone, shared their work, or made an effort to help them grow.
You don’t have to spend money every time you see a business post. Sometimes a share, a recommendation, or a genuine referral goes a long way, too!
Supporting small businesses can’t only happen when you need small businesses to support YOU.
I’d genuinely love to hear from other small business owners: Have you ever received a sponsorship or donation request from someone who has never supported your business?
And on the flip side, what makes you WANT to say yes when someone asks?
Let’s talk about it! 👇
