Back to School, Back to Business: How Local Shops Can Step Up This Season
Ah, August. The smell of freshly sharpened pencils, the sound of cleats on a football field, and the sudden spike in fundraising flyers clogging your inbox. Yep, it’s back-to-school season, and while kids gear up for class, this is your time to shine as a small business owner.
Because let’s face it: schools can’t do it all alone, and local businesses are the unsung heroes behind so many field trips, uniforms, and Friday night lights. Whether you're a bakery, boutique, or building badass, here are smart, simple ways to support schools (while giving your brand a little extra credit, too).
Sponsor Local Sports Teams (Bonus: Your Logo on a Jersey = Free Advertising)
From peewee football to high school volleyball, teams need uniforms, equipment, and snack bar supplies. Your sponsorship helps cover costs and puts your business name in front of hundreds of families every week.
Pro Tip: Ask for a banner at the field or a shoutout on social media, or better yet, offer a team discount on your services.
Donate Goods or Services for Fundraisers
Raffles, auctions, and silent bids are a school’s fundraising bread and butter. Donate a gift basket, a free consult, or a service package. It costs you a little, but shows the community you're invested and can win you loyal customers in return.
Example: Local photographer? Offer a family mini-session. Run a salon? Throw in a back-to-school haircut bundle.
Host a “Give Back” Night
Partner with a PTA or booster club to dedicate one evening a month where a portion of your sales go back to the school. It’s a win-win: increased traffic for your biz and much-needed funds for classrooms, clubs, or new playground equipment.
Make it fun: Add themed decor, student art, or student performances if you’ve got the space. You’re not just giving money — you’re building community.
Shout Out School Staff
Back-to-school is exciting for kids, but it’s exhausting for teachers. Celebrate them with a teacher appreciation giveaway or offer discounts for school employees all month long.
Low-effort, high-impact: Post a simple “Tag your favorite teacher” giveaway on social media. The engagement alone will boost your algorithm — and your reputation.
Support Clubs and Academic Teams
Robotics, theater, debate, band - these kids work just as hard as the athletes and often get half the recognition. Show your support by funding a competition entry fee, donating supplies, or sponsoring their next big event.
Bonus points: These clubs usually have newsletters or playbills where your business can be featured.
Build Relationships, Not Just Revenue
At the end of the day, supporting local schools isn’t just about a tax write-off (though hey, we’ll talk about that at your year-end review). It’s about putting your business at the heart of the community. These kids are your future employees, customers, and fans.
When you show up for them, their families will show up for you.
Need help tracking your sponsorships, donations, or setting up a community fund in QuickBooks?
Talk to us at Kardinal Business Solutions, we’ll keep your books as clean as those new school shoes.
📞 512-965-1924 | 📧 Jessica@kardinal.solutions | 🌐 www.kardinal.solutions