Many alpaca farms and small businesses make the mistake of assuming that the bigger the audience, the wider the reach, the better the marketing opportunity. In the early stages of a growing business, it is more important to be strategical with your tight marketing budget and start out with what you know, your local community.

Marketing is all about making connections between you, your farm, and potential customers. As many of you realized at your NAFD events, it is very easy to connect your Animals, Fiber Products, and Farm with people who live in a close proximity. Someone who drives by your Farm on the way to the grocery store or to drop the kids off at soccer practice has a lot higher business potential than complete strangers living hundreds of miles away. Instead of reserving expensive banner ads that reach a National Audience, consider using that money to promote yourself in your own community.

There are many great and cost effective ways to connect your business with the local community.

Local Newspaper Ads are a great, cost effective way to introduce your business to the local community. Pick up your local paper and browse the ads, look for similar style businesses, or at least businesses that target the same demographics as you, and look to advertise in the same sections. If the rates are too high, consider running classified ads or starting out in smaller, weekly papers. Many of these papers also have web sites that are great advertising opportunities as well. Can't afford to run advertisements? Try submitting P.R. Articles showcasing your unique business/farm.

Craigslist is also a great resource for ensuring your marketing efforts are reaching your local community. If you haven't already, head to www.craigslist.org , find your local section, and browse over the offerings in each category. Chances are you will recognize a lot of businesses from your area already utilizing the site, and the best part is that it is completely free to place your ad.

Local Partnerships: As we have previously mentioned, Networking with other local businesses is an amazing way to learn about what works best in your area and pool your resources. Make a list of potential, non-competing businesses in your area and contact them about trading Coupons/Specials, and running joint marketing campaigns or events.

Schools and Community Events are great places to jump start buzz about your Farm and Business in the local area. Sign up for vendor space at local events or put on an informational demonstration, showcasing your animals and the alpaca lifestyle.

Online Local Business Directories are also a great way to get your name out there, as well as help boost your Search Engine Rankings. Here is a list of sites that will help you promote your local business: Yahoo! Local Listings - http://listings.local.yahoo.com/ , Froogle Local - http://froogle.google.com/ , MerchantCircle.com, Localharvest.org, Local.com, Yellowpages.com, and Reachlocal.com .

Have a good Marketing Tip? Share it with us and we will share it with the entire community! Email Us