Charlotte is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Southeast, attracting new residents, businesses, and development at a rapid pace. But while large corporations often make headlines, it’s the small businesses—those family-owned shops, independent service providers, and neighborhood-based entrepreneurs—that are the true backbone of our local economy.
At The Sears Group, a proud locally owned real estate firm based right here in Charlotte, we’re honored to celebrate National Small Business Month by spotlighting the vital role these businesses play in our community—and why now is the perfect time to support them.
The Economic Engine of the Queen City
Charlotte is home to over 80,000 small businesses, ranging from retail and restaurants to creative services, tech startups, and professional firms. These businesses:
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Employ nearly half of the city’s private workforce
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Generate millions in tax revenue that supports public infrastructure and services
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Foster innovation and create opportunities for residents of all backgrounds
When you support a small business in Charlotte—whether it's in South End, NoDa, Uptown, University City, Steele Creek, or Ballantyne—you’re investing in your neighbors, your local schools, and the future of your city.
A Personal Connection to the Community
One of the greatest strengths of small businesses is the personal connection they build with their customers. These are the people who remember your name, support your kids' sports team, and sponsor school events or community cleanups. They're not answering to shareholders—they're answering to the community.
Think about your favorite coffee shop in Plaza Midwood or the boutique you love to visit in Dilworth. These businesses are part of the fabric of your daily life. Their success contributes to the vibrancy and identity of our neighborhoods.
Supporting Small Businesses Strengthens Charlotte’s Future
Here’s why your support matters:
1. Job Creation & Career Growth
Small businesses are the top job creators in Charlotte. From baristas and stylists to app developers and real estate professionals, these companies offer career opportunities and mentorship, especially for young professionals and minority entrepreneurs.
2. Keeping Dollars Local
Every time you spend $100 at a small business, around $68 stays in the local economy. That means more money going toward local schools, parks, infrastructure, and services. In contrast, money spent at a national chain circulates far less within the community.
3. Diversity & Inclusion
Charlotte’s entrepreneurial landscape is rich with Black-owned, Latino-owned, Asian-owned, veteran-owned, and woman-owned businesses. Supporting these businesses is a direct way to promote economic equity and empower historically marginalized groups.
4. Better Customer Service & Expertise
Small business owners are often experts in their fields—offering a level of attention, customization, and care you won’t find at big-box retailers or online giants.
How to Support Charlotte’s Small Businesses
You don’t have to spend big to make a difference. Here are some simple and meaningful ways to show your support:
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Shop local at independent boutiques, gift shops, and online stores based in Charlotte
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Eat local by dining at family-owned restaurants or ordering from food trucks and pop-ups
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Hire local service providers—like realtors, contractors, designers, or event planners
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Promote local by tagging small businesses on social media, leaving a 5-star review, or recommending them to friends
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Attend local events like vendor fairs, neighborhood festivals, and networking mixers
You can also explore local small business directories like CLT Black Owned, QC Metro Market, or The Charlotte Small Business Network for ideas.
The Sears Group: Built By Charlotte, For Charlotte
As a small, independent real estate firm in Charlotte, The Sears Group is committed to championing local businesses, supporting our neighbors, and creating meaningful connections that extend beyond the closing table.
Whether we’re helping families relocate to the area, guiding first-time buyers in North and South Carolina, or working with investors internationally, we take pride in offering personalized service rooted in local expertise.
We also work alongside other small businesses—from photographers and stagers to local lenders and attorneys—to ensure our clients receive the highest level of care. When you choose The Sears Group, you’re choosing to work with a team that values community, integrity, and the entrepreneurial spirit of Charlotte.
Supporting small businesses in Charlotte isn’t just good economics—it’s good citizenship. It helps keep our neighborhoods unique, our economy strong, and our communities thriving. Whether you're shopping, dining, hiring, or referring, your support makes a tangible difference.
This May, during National Small Business Month, we invite you to explore the rich variety of small businesses that make Charlotte feel like home—and remember that every purchase is a vote for the kind of community we want to build together.
