MAY 2, 2025 LOCAL ECONOMY The role of local businesses in supporting community well-being KOBE CLARK U-M student contributor Local businesses are the backbone of Ann Arbor’s economy, accounting for nearly 50% of its economic activity and significantly contributing to the city’s cultural and financial stability. Whether it’s independent bookstores, small coffee shops or family-owned restaurants, these businesses provide jobs, support local causes and promote sustainability. Even as Ann Arbor continues to grow, small businesses remain a key part of the community. Local businesses in Ann Arbor are not only the drivers of economic growth, but also cultural anchors and environmental stewards that enhance community well-being in diverse and meaningful ways. Despite facing challenges such as rising costs and corporate competition, these businesses remain essential to the city’s success, making it crucial for residents to support them in order to preserve Ann Arbor’s unique character and economic resilience. Boosting the economy Unlike big corporations that send their profits elsewhere, small businesses help keep money within the community. These businesses employ thousands of Ann Arbor residents in different industries such as retail, restaurants, tech and healthcare. Many also offer internships and entry-level jobs that give young people a chance to gain work experience. Spending money at small businesses can also help fund important community programs, since local stores often give back through donations and sponsorships. A great example is Zingerman’s, which started as a small deli and grew into a well-known business. Even with its success, Zingerman’s remains locally owned and continues to buy ingredients from Michigan farms while supporting charities in the area. Another major contributor to small businesses is the University of Michigan community. With thousands of students, professors and visitors in town, these businesses benefit from all the local shopping, dining and entertainment. Bringing the community together Beyond money, small businesses help make Ann Arbor feel like home by supporting local events and causes. Many donate a portion of their profits to nonprofits or sponsor programs that fight hunger, homelessness, and education gaps. For example, Literati Bookstore is more than just a bookstore, it’s a place where people gather for author talks, poetry readings, and literacy programs. Businesses like this create a sense of belonging and make Ann Arbor feel like a true community, where people connect, share ideas and celebrate local culture. Local businesses also strengthen neighborhood connections by sponsoring festivals and partnering with community groups. The Downtown Ann Arbor Partnership works with businesses to organize events that bring people downtown and boost the local economy. Helping the environment and public health Many Ann Arbor businesses care about sustainability and public health. They focus on eco-friendly practices, like using local ingredients, cutting down on waste and offering environmentally friendly products. The Ann Arbor Green Business Challenge helps businesses reduce their carbon footprint while also saving money and promoting sustainability. Many restaurants in the Pony Bush at Sweetwaters Cafe. Vendors love to sell outside of local businesses! area also focus on organic and plantbased options, making it easier for residents to eat well. The challenges local businesses face Even though local businesses help Ann Arbor in so many ways, they also deal with major challenges. Large chain stores and online shopping make it harder for small businesses to compete, sometimes leading to closures. One of the biggest issues is the high cost of retail space in Ann Arbor, especially downtown and Kerrytown. Many small businesses struggle to afford their space, forcing some to move or shut down. Programs like Small Business Saturday encourage people to shop locally and support independent stores. The city also offers grants and tax breaks to help small businesses stay open. By choosing to shop at small businesses, residents can help keep Ann Arbor’s economy strong and its neighborhoods connected. As one business owner put it, "When you shop at a small business, you are not just buying a product. You are investing in your own community." Supporting local businesses isn’t just about convenience. It’s about making sure Ann Arbor stays a great place to live for years to come. GROUNDCOVER NEWS 5 SOLIDARITY from last page militants and were concentrating on that aspect of the revolution. But the FBI had three times as many infiltration agents in Milwaukee as they did in Chicago. Apparently they considered the threat of organizing for community support more dangerous than organizing an armed conflict. After the panel, two people led the conference closing. One of the people asked for meditative silence then asked a few questions about being a giver or receiver. She encouraged people to close their eyes for a slow, meditative reflection, with a focus on envisioning land redistribution. Then the other person read a poem, which was a cross between traditional and Spoken Word poetry, concerning stolen lands and the attitudes of indigenous people toward land and non-ownership. sive and touching way to end the conference. It was an impres
6 Publizr Home