Did you know that 65% of small businesses in Texas grow faster than the national average when they use smart, local strategies?
Whether you’re running a local business, an online business, or a home-based business, success doesn’t happen overnight. Many small business owners are facing challenges like marketing, funding, and customer retention. But with the right ways, you can scale your business and thrive in the Lone Star State.
In this article, I’ll share my 5 ways to help you easily grow your small business in Texas.
1. Build a Strong Local Network
Texas is famous for its friendly vibes and community spirit. Use this to your advantage! People love to support local businesses, but first, they need to know who you are.
Networking isn’t just swapping business cards, it’s how people feel about your business.
Join Local Organizations
Sponsor local events, collaborate with schools, or support charitable causes. The more visible your business is, the more people will recognize and trust it.
For example, A food truck offers free drinks to teachers every Friday.
Tell Your Texas Story
Did you start your business in a garage? Did your grandma’s recipe inspire your bakery? Tell that story! Texans connect with real people, not perfect ads.
Celebrate Texas Culture
Incorporate local culture, themes, and even symbols like the Texas flag into your branding. This helps customers feel connected to your business on a personal level.
Once my friend started a handmade leather goods business in San Antonio. He added a small Texas flag emblem on each product, and suddenly, locals started choosing his brand over bigger brands!
Attend Iconic Texas Events
Think SXSW in Austin, Houston Livestock Show, or San Antonio’s Fiesta. These are goldmines for connections.
A strong local brand turns strangers into loyal fans. And in Texas, loyalty lasts longer than a summer sunset.
Pro Tip: Start small! Even hanging a “Proudly Texan” sign in your window or adding your town’s name to your logo can make a difference.
2. Use Digital Marketing
Digital marketing puts your business in front of thousands without expensive ads. And in Texas, where competition is fierce, being online means you’re open for business, even at midnight.
Don’t worry, you don’t need to be a computer genius to get started.
Post on Social Media
Texans love Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Post engaging content such as:
- Behind-the-scenes clips (for example, baking cookies at 5 AM).
- Customer shoutouts (Thanks, Sarah from Austin for your 10th visit!).
- Polls or questions (Should we add brisket tacos to the menu?).
Pro Tip: Spend 15 minutes a day replying to comments or reviews. A simple “Thank you all!” builds trust faster than a jackrabbit on caffeine.
Claim Your Google My Business
When people search for your service in Texas, Then you want your business to show up first. So fill out your Google My Business profile with photos, hours, and customer reviews. Update it weekly, even a simple post like the New Summer menu!
Do you know that over 70% of Texans check Google reviews before visiting a new business? So keep gaining your 5-star ratings!
Use SEO Magic
SEO sounds fancy, but it’s just using words people search for. For example, if you have a bakery business in Dallas, use phrases like “best birthday cakes in Dallas” or “Texas-sized cupcakes” on your website.
My friend runs a tiny cafe in Dallas. For months, only a few locals showed up. One day he posted a 30-second Instagram video showing how he made his Tex-Mex latte. The post went viral and up to 30k views in 2 days. And his sales jumped 40% that week!
3. Deliver Unforgettable Customer Service
In Texas, bad service is like serving sweet tea without sugar. Here, folks expect friendly faces, quick fixes, and a little extra kindness.
A survey found 58% of customers will pay more for a product if the service feels special. Happy customers become your biggest fans, and free advertisers!
Train Your Team
Practice handling tough situations, like angry customers or mistakes. Role-play scenarios like:
- The customer says: ‘My order is wrong!’
- Your team replies: ‘We are so sorry, let’s fix this right away!’
Surprise Customers with Freebies
A spa in Corpus Christi gives regulars free “stress-relief kits” (face masks + tea bags) during the busy tax season. It’s the little things that make a big difference.
Fix Mistakes Fast
If an order is late or wrong, don’t just apologize, add a discount or small gift.
For Example: my friend is the owner of a coffee shop in Lubbock, and he forgot a customer’s muffin order. She gave them a free coffee and a cookie. That customer now brings friends every weekend.
Pro Tip: Write down 3 common customer complaints (e.g., long wait times, and wrong orders). Then, train your team to handle them smoothly.
Texans tell an average of 9 friends about a positive experience with a small business. Be the business they can’t stop talking about!
4. Partner with Other Businesses
Texas is bigger than France, so trying to grow a business as a one-person is like herding cattle with one hand tied behind your back. Partnering with other businesses helps you reach new customers without draining your wallet.
Host Joint Events
For example, a bookstore and a coffee shop in Waco could team up to offer “Date Night” packages that include a book, a latte, and a dessert.
Cross-Promote Online
Share each other’s social media posts or create special deals that feature products from both businesses.
For Example, Buy an ice cream, and get 10% off at the boutique next door!
Sponsor Local Teams or Events
A Houston gym business sponsors a Little League team. Their logo on the kids’ jerseys is seen by 500+ families, cheaper than a billboard!
My Friend Example
In San Antonio, my florist friend partnered with a wedding planner to create styled photo shoots for Instagram. My florist friend’s bookings doubled in 4 months, and the planner got 20 new clients.
Why This Step Matters
Partnerships turn strangers into customers. And in Texas, where communities stick together, teamwork makes the dream work.
And do you know that, Businesses that partner up grow 30% faster in Texas than those going solo?
5. Grow Smart with the Right Funding
Growing a business in Texas is the same as fueling a truck, you need the right kind of gas to go far. But you don’t have to risk your savings or take scary loans. Texas offers plenty of ways to fund your growth without headaches.
Apply for Texas Small Business Grants
The Texas Workforce Commission and the Governor’s Small Business Handbook offer grants that can help small businesses with training, expansion, and development. These grants don’t need to be repaid, making them a great option.
Talk to Local Banks or Credit Unions
Many banks and credit unions in Texas offer special loan programs for small businesses with lower interest rates and flexible repayment options. It’s always a good idea to visit a local branch and explore your options.
Angel Investors & Venture Capitalists
Texas is home to many investors looking for promising small businesses. If you have a strong business plan and growth potential, investors may be willing to fund your business in exchange for a stake in your company.
My friend’s laundromat business in El Paso was stuck at 1 location until she applied for a “Texas Women-Owned Business” grant. He won $15,000, bought more washing machines, and now washes clothes of 10 local hotels!
Pro Tip: Start with one funding source. For example, apply for a small grant first to test your idea before borrowing.
Smart funding helps you grow without drowning in debt. And in Texas, where opportunities are big, the right money can turn your small business into a superstar.
If you don’t know how to manage small business finances, you should also read my detailed guide on small business money management tips.
The final round-up
Growing a small business in Texas isn’t about luck, it’s about using smart, local strategies that work.
Remember, 65% of Texas small businesses grow faster than the national average when they focus on what makes the Lone Star State special. Whether you’re selling tacos, tech, or handmade crafts, these 5 steps can help you stand out:
Success doesn’t happen overnight, but with patience and these Texas-tested strategies, you’ll build a business as strong as a century-old oak. Start small, and stay consistent. And remember, every big Texas success story began right where you are now.
FAQs About Promote a Business in Texas
What is the Best way to Grow a Small business in Texas?
The best way to grow a small business in Texas is to make strong local connections, use the power of digital marketing, provide very good customer service, partner with other businesses, and secure the right funding.
How can I use Digital Marketing to Grow my Small Business in Texas?
You can grow your business online by posting on social media, using Google My Business profile, using SEO-friendly content, and associating with customers through comments and reviews.
What are Some Free ways to Market my Small Business in Texas?
Some free marketing strategies include local programs that use networks, using social media, listing your business on Google My Business, collaborating with other businesses, and sharing your business story with the community.
How Important is Customer Service for Business Growth in Texas?
Customer service is super important! Texans value friendly, personal service. Excellent customer service helps build customer loyalty, encourages word-of-mouth referrals, and keeps people coming back.
What Are Some Common Mistakes Small Business Owners Make in Texas?
Some common mistakes include not marketing their business effectively, ignoring customer feedback, failing to make local connections, and not searching available funding options. Avoid these mistakes, and your business will have a better opportunity to thrive.
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I am a seasoned entrepreneur with a passion for building and scaling successful businesses. With years of experience in launching and managing multiple ventures across the USA, I have gained deep insights into what it takes to thrive in the competitive business world. Through my writing, I share practical strategies, expert advice, and proven business tips to help aspiring entrepreneurs turn their ideas into profitable ventures. When I’m not busy running my businesses, I enjoy mentoring startups and exploring innovative ways to grow in the ever-evolving market.