Hosting events or participating in fundraisers is very important for small businesses.  Spread the word about your business by making a donation to a local school event, town fair, charity road race, or anything! If business has been slow and a monetary donation isn’t possible, offer your skills or donate a specific item.  For example, your family restaurant cannot afford to make a donation to the middle school dance.  Consider donating a few platters of chicken fingers and French fries, or offer to have some of your servers chaperone. 

Guest speakers also draw great crowds.  Invite a local poet to host a reading at your cafe or used book shop.  Hosting events and participating in fundraisers are fantastic ways to attain new customers and garner respect in the community.