WS Chronicle

By Busta Brown 

In a world increasingly dominated by global giants, it’s refreshing to know there are nonprofit organizations that advocate to help our local small businesses thrive. At the helm of one of these organizations is a passionate and visionary leader whose relentless dedication helps shape the future of Triad’s small business scene. 

“Local businesses are the backbone of our community and have long been the pathway to the middle class in America. Starting a family business has always been a way to build a future. Many of us think, ‘I should support a local business because my neighbor down the street owns a shop, and I want him to succeed,’ and that’s true. But there are so many more reasons why shopping locally benefits us all. 

“When we support local businesses, we strengthen our local economy, especially by helping build resilience. This was especially clear during the pandemic when we saw shortages of goods. Ensuring that we produce and sell goods locally is vital for our community’s resilience. 

“Local businesses also give our community the unique character we love. It’s why we come back home, not just for family, but for the memories tied to that local restaurant or shop. No one says, ‘I can’t wait to go back home because of the local Walmart.’ We come back because of those personal, local places that make this community feel like home. 

“At the end of the day, supporting local businesses is about more than just helping a neighbor. It’s about investing in the strength, uniqueness, and future of our community,” said Penny Schneck. She’s the executive director for Triad Local First (TLF). TLF’s member companies are from a broad range of sectors including retail shops, real estate agents, manufacturers, builders, insurance brokers, accountants, and more.  

What makes TLF stand out is its commitment specifically to local Triad businesses. “Our mission is to support local, independent businesses in the Triad, which sets us apart from organizations like town chambers or downtown authorities. To become a member, a business must be local and independent, with no franchises or publicly traded companies with out-of-state headquarters. Additionally, at least 50% of the business’s ownership must reside in the Triad. This ensures that the businesses we support are deeply rooted in the community, fostering local growth and success,” shared Penny.  

The New Jersy native loves working with local business owners, especially after spending years in large organizations. She believes that the energy and passion local small businesses have are unmatched. “It radiates and gives me a sense of excitement and purpose in what I do. Not only do they love what they do, but they’re also incredibly dedicated to making their businesses successful. The hard work and commitment they put in is truly the secret sauce that makes working with local businesses so special. It’s this energy and drive that makes me proud to serve as the executive director at Triad Local First, supporting the incredible local businesses throughout the Triad, including Winston-Salem, Greensboro, High Point, and Kernersville.” 

Triad Local First was started 15 years ago by a coalition of local business owners who recognized the need to come together and support each other. TLF supports local businesses in several ways, says Penny, “First, we give them a voice with local government, advocating for policies, regulations and practices that prioritize working with local businesses instead of just offering tax incentives to large out-of-state corporations. We want to ensure that local businesses are represented in decisions that affect their future. 

“We also invest in educating consumers on the importance of supporting local businesses. It’s not just about helping neighbors; there are real, long-term benefits for the entire community when we keep money circulating locally. We also negotiate with various advertising agencies to offer discounts to our small business members. We maintain an online directory at www.TriadLocalFirst.org  so that people can find local businesses. 

“In addition, we offer educational opportunities tailored to small businesses and host events that bring local businesses together. One of the things our members value most is the chance to network with other independent businesses. These connections help create a sense of community and collaboration that supports growth. We also make sure to keep our members informed about local initiatives they can take advantage of, whether they’re free or low-cost.  

“Every year, Triad Local First hosts the Community Table, which highlights local farmers and restaurant owners. They also partner with my good friend and entrepreneur Algenon Cash during Restaurant Week to support and promote local dining spots.”  

Penny shared that every dollar spent with a local business keeps about 67 cents in our local economy. She said it’s because local businesses purchase from other local businesses, hire locally, and contribute to the community in various ways, such as sponsoring Little League teams. On the other hand, when you spend money with national chains, she said only about 27 cents of each dollar stays in the area. 

I asked Penny to share one of Triad Local First success stories. ”Cheryl Presley, owner of Cookie Gurlie, has been an invaluable member of Triad Local First for six years and has served on the board for four. In addition to her role on the board, Cheryl has also chaired the annual Community Table, using her event planning expertise to make it a success. 

“The connections she’s made with other local businesses have helped her find the right customer base and expand her network. Through these relationships, she’s gained insights, learned from others, and shared both challenges and successes. 

“Triad Local First also keeps members like Cheryl informed about grants and programs that can provide financial support. And, most importantly, it’s the community of small business owners that Cheryl values the most, where they can collaborate, support one another, and grow together.” 

I asked Penny how Triad Local First collaborates with policymakers and local governments to advocate for these small businesses. “We regularly attend city council and county meetings to advocate for policies that support local businesses, focusing not just on the lowest bid in quotes, but on fostering a friendly environment for these businesses. Additionally, we collaborate with the city and county to get proclamations for ‘Buy Local’ season, especially during the holidays. As part of this effort, we invest in advertising campaigns to educate consumers about the benefits of supporting local businesses, not just during the holiday season, but all year round.” 

My Phenomenal Nonprofit Organization of the Week is Triad Local First. For more information, visit www.TriadLocalFirst.org or email Penny Schneck at triadlocalfirst@gmail.com.