Building Community and Celebrating Diversity- Support Local Businesses

Building Community and Celebrating Diversity- Support Local Businesses

Why Supporting Local Businesses Matters

Hi, I’m Armando, co-owner of Chico Lindo, a proud Latino- and LGBT-owned business that celebrates bold personalities and our vibrant cultures. Running Chico Lindo has taught me firsthand how much impact local support has on small businesses like ours. Supporting local isn’t just about buying a product; it’s about building a community that thrives together. Let me share why it matters so much.

Boosting the Local Economy

When you shop local, your dollars stay right here in the community. For every dollar spent at a small business, around 67 cents stays in the local economy. That money helps fund schools, parks, and public services we all rely on. At Chico Lindo, we also collaborate with other local vendors for our materials, so your support creates a ripple effect that benefits everyone.

Creating Jobs

Local businesses like ours create jobs for people in the community. For us, it’s not just about hiring—it’s about creating opportunities for others to grow and succeed. Small businesses are the heartbeat of the job market, and your support helps keep that heartbeat strong.

Supporting Latino-Owned Businesses

As a proud Chicano from Chicago with roots in Mexican culture, I know how important it is to celebrate our heritage. Latino entrepreneurs contribute over $800 billion annually to the U.S. economy, but we often face challenges like limited access to funding and resources. By supporting businesses like Chico Lindo, you’re helping us overcome those barriers and keep our traditions alive—from cheeky T-shirt designs inspired by our cultura to products that speak to our shared experiences.

Uplifting LGBT-Owned Businesses

As a member of the LGBT community, I’ve seen how love and resilience can turn challenges into triumphs. LGBT-owned businesses bring diversity and inclusivity to the marketplace, often while navigating unique obstacles. Your support for businesses like ours isn’t just about a purchase; it’s a statement that you value equality, creativity, and authenticity. Plus, many of us love to give back, whether it’s through charity work or community advocacy.

Building Community Connections

One of the best parts of running Chico Lindo is getting to know our customers. We’ve met so many amazing people who share their stories and support our vision. Local businesses are community hubs—places where connections happen and relationships grow. When you support a small business, you’re not just a customer; you’re part of the family.

Encouraging Unique Offerings

Let’s be real: you won’t find what Chico Lindo offers at big-box stores or online giants. Our T-shirts, hats, and even our Lush Luna handmade soaps are made with a personal touch and cultural pride. Local businesses like ours create unique products that reflect the personality and spirit of the community—and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

How to Support Local Businesses

Supporting local businesses doesn’t always require spending a lot. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:

  1. Shop Local: Whether it’s your morning coffee or a T-shirt for your next night out, think local first.

  2. Spread the Word: Share your favorite businesses on social media, leave reviews, and recommend us to your friends.

  3. Engage: Attend local events, farmers’ markets, and pop-ups to discover amazing vendors.

  4. Advocate: Support policies and initiatives that help small businesses thrive.

  5. Collaborate: If you’re a business owner, consider teaming up with other local entrepreneurs.

Celebrating Diversity in Local Entrepreneurship

At Chico Lindo, we’re proud to be part of a diverse community of creators and dreamers. Supporting Latino- and LGBT-owned businesses isn’t just about economics; it’s about celebrating our stories, heritage, and identities. Every time you shop with us, you’re helping us keep our culture alive and make a difference in the community we love.

Final Thoughts

Local businesses are more than just places to shop—they’re reflections of the community’s heart and soul. By supporting small businesses like Chico Lindo, especially those owned by underrepresented groups, you’re contributing to a more vibrant, inclusive, and equitable future. So next time you’re shopping, remember: your choice matters. Let’s keep our communities thriving, together.

With love and un poco drama,

Armando 
Co-Owner of Chico Lindo

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