You Don’t Need No Coins, You Betta Hype Your (Biz) Bestie Up!

Navigators, this is a different kind of blog post, but it bears saying. Supporting your favorite small businesses isn’t always about having funds—it’s about showing up and making noise for the people you believe in. Many of us think “support” means spending money, and if that’s not in the budget, we stay quiet.

But here’s the truth: You don’t need deep pockets to hype up your biz bestie. Whether it’s your sister, your friend, or your favorite neighborhood cafe, there are so many ways to show love and help them grow without dropping a dime.

Let’s dive into 7 powerful, free ways to support small businesses and prove that love and loyalty are louder than dollar signs.

1. Spread the Word

Word-of-mouth runs the world and small businesses thrive on visibility. When you share their work, you’re amplifying their reach and connecting them with people who could become their next loyal customers.

• Post about them on your social feed.

• Don’t just scroll, hit that “Share” button like you mean it!

• Plug them in your group chats—because you know your squad loves the hook-up.

2. Give Them Their Flowers (AKA Reviews)

Respect is free, and reviews are gold. A five-star shoutout can turn a curious stranger into a paying customer.

• Drop a review on Google or Yelp like you’re writing to your favorite cousin.

• Post about your experience on your social media, even if it’s just from observing their work.

• Not ready for public feedback? Slide into their DMs and show love—it’ll mean the world.

3. Engage Like You Mean It

Likes, comments, and shares aren’t just for the ‘gram—they’re lifelines for small businesses trying to beat the algorithm.

• Like their posts. Save them for later. Drop a “🔥” in the comments.

• If they post a poll or question, answer it—it boosts their engagement.

• Join their email list and open their newsletters. Those clicks matter more than you think.

4. Collaborate and Cross-Promote

Partnerships build empires, and collaboration isn’t just for corporate suits.

• Team up on a giveaway or event.

• Offer your skills to help them with something they need (e.g., graphic design, photography).

• Refer clients their way—and trust they’ll return the favor.

Think of them as your business buddy, not your competition. Collaboration opens doors.

5. Be Their Walking Billboard

Your voice is their marketing plan. Every time you mention their name, you’re opening doors.

• When someone asks, “Do you know someone who does XYZ?” your answer should be their name.

• Show off their product in your stories or in real life—rock it like you mean it.

6. Show Up for Their Events

Whether it’s a livestream, a webinar, or a pop-up, your presence matters more than you know.

• Jump in their next IG Live and flood the chat with good vibes.

• Pull up to their pop-up and let them see your face.

• Share the event with your network and bring a friend along. It’s free marketing for them.

7. Celebrate Their Wins Loudly

If they’re winning, you’re winning. Cheer them on like it’s game day.

• Share their new launch with your network.

• Post about their milestones like they just dropped the hottest mixtape.

• Send them a message to say, “I see you shining, and I’m so proud!”

Why This Matters:

For small business owners, this kind of support can be transformative. Your actions say, “I see you, I value you, and I want to see you win.” It’s bigger than money. It’s about showing up in ways that matter and creating a ripple effect of love and loyalty.

So, next time you scroll past your biz bestie’s post or hear about their next project, don’t just smile and keep scrolling. Take action. Hype them up. Share the love. And remember—no coins, no problem!