Being named the 2024 Local Business Hero helped PAWS Pet Animal Welfare Shops gain recognition for their work supporting animal welfare in their community. It’s one of many examples of how small businesses across Aotearoa are making a real difference, and how awards like these can help amplify their impact.

Whether it’s through supporting local causes, collaborating with other small businesses, or being recognised through local business awards, community support can have a measurable impact on growth.

In this article, we’ll explore how community engagement can help you achieve your business goals. You’ll also find a flyer that you can print and use to encourage your community to vote for you in the 2025 Local Business Hero award by Prospa.

Why community engagement matters for small businesses

For small businesses, building a strong local presence goes beyond marketing. It’s about showing up consistently and becoming part of the community. When customers see a business supporting local causes or participating in events, it builds trust and familiarity.

Community engagement also increases visibility in the places that matter: local social media groups, word-of-mouth recommendations, and everyday conversations between neighbours. That kind of exposure leads to stronger loyalty, repeat business and a positive reputation.

It can open new doors too. From local collaborations and media features to more foot traffic, staying connected to your community helps keep your business front of mind.

Four ways to build stronger community connections

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to community engagement. But there are a few proven ways small businesses can show up, build relationships and see real benefits in return.

1. Support local causes

You might want to sponsor a local sports team, donate goods to a school fundraiser or back a charity your customers care about. These kinds of contributions show your business is invested in the community and help build long-term trust and goodwill. This story about a purpose-led fashion business shows how aligning with local causes can also drive long-term growth.

2. Collaborate with other small businesses

Joining forces with fellow business owners can help you expand your reach and tap into new audiences. Whether it’s running a joint promotion, co-hosting a pop-up or sharing space at a market, collaborations offer a chance to reach new customers and strengthen your local network without the expense of a large marketing campaign.

Discover how F45 franchisee Lynnae Palu built a close-knit community by fostering strong internal culture and external relationships.

3. Participate in community events

Markets, festivals, and local gatherings are great ways to connect face to face with potential customers. These events put your business in front of new people, spark conversations and build local visibility. They’re also an excellent opportunity to get direct customer feedback that can help you improve your products or services.

4. Enter local business awards

Recognition through a local award can significantly raise your profile and help attract new customers. The Local Business Hero awards shine a light on New Zealand small businesses that are making a positive impact in their local areas.

“I was taken aback, to say the least,” says Meg, reflecting on being named the 2024 Local Business Hero. The award gave Meg and her team a bigger platform to support animal welfare and help more stray and abandoned kittens find their fur-ever homes.

This year, the Local Business Hero will receive $2,500 cash, a Stuff sponsored content article championing their business and a Neighbourly advertising package valued up to $2,500. Nominators can also win up to $500 in Prezzy cards.

Become the 2025 Local Business Hero!

If your business is making a difference in your local community, being nominated for the 2025 Local Business Hero is a great way to gain recognition and support.

Nominations are open to small businesses across New Zealand. Customers and community members can nominate a business through the Neighbourly platform. To help you spread the word in-store and amongst your community, we’ve created a flyer. Use it to let customers know they can nominate you. A simple prompt at the counter or in your window could be all it takes to turn everyday visitors into active supporters.

If your business is nominated, you’ll be in the running to become one of the finalists selected by a judging panel. If you’re selected as a finalist, your community can then vote to help determine the national winner.

Looking for more ways to grow your business? Speak with a Prospa specialist today.