Let’s Be Honest About Innovation

We all want to innovate. We want to evolve, grow, and get ahead of the curve. But running a local business means juggling a lot—and “innovation” often feels out of reach.

Here are the 3 most common roadblocks we hear from local business owners—and how to push through them.

1. “I Don’t Have Time”

You’re running day to day, barely keeping up with customers, staff, vendors, and the 84 things on your list.

Try this:

• Start with 10-minute wins. Pick one thing that frustrates you or slows you down—and set a timer to find or try a fix.
• Build “innovation check-ins” into your calendar once a week.

You don’t need hours. You need intentional minutes.

2. “I Don’t Have the Budget”

There’s a myth that innovation = big spending. But some of the smartest business pivots come from low- or no-cost changes.

Try this:

• Look at what you already have—can you repurpose a space, tool, or team skill?
• Audit your subscriptions, processes, or packaging. What’s outdated? What’s free to change?

Innovation doesn’t always cost money—it just takes fresh thinking.

3. “I Don’t Know Where to Start”

You’re open to trying something new… but what? It’s hard to know what’s worth your time.

Try this:

• Listen to your customers. What do they wish was easier, faster, better?
• Watch what similar businesses are doing in other cities or industries. Inspiration doesn’t have to be local.

Start by copying clarity. Then make it your own.

You’re Not Alone

That’s why we’re bringing together local owners, doers, and big thinkers at InnovateLocal 2025—to talk through the exact roadblocks you face, and how they’ve worked through them.

📅 June 25, 2025
🎟️ Learn more about InnovateLocal

👇 Action This Week:

✅ Choose which challenge (time, money, clarity) is your biggest block
✅ Pick one small way to address it this week
✅ RSVP to join us at InnovateLocal 2025 and learn how others have done it too