Low cost small business advertising and marketing ideas for 2025

Let's just jump straight to it!

Google Business Profile

• The first and free thing you can do its setup a Google Business Profile. I can't stress this one enough in 2025 in the age of AI search summaries. Your Google Business Profile, when optimised, will help you stand out from the crowd in your local area. Make sure all of your contact details are correct and that you actively maintain it and grab as many reviews as you can. They are not only handy in helping your rank for local SEO, but you can use them in other areas of your business such as assets on your website, printed collateral etc

Local sponsorships

• Some businesses will baulk at local sponsorships as it doesn't provide an 'instant' return - however the local exposure and good will generated will benefit your business in the longer term. Local community and sporting groups are often very thankful for your support, and will go above and beyond to promote your business via their channels which can include direct email newsletters, local signage and more. You can generate some decent exposure from as little as $200 or even better, offer in-kind support where you can share your service expertise in exchange for exposure.

In-person networking

• Attend local events with traditional business groups (like chamber of commerce) or other local  social events. There are often opportunities to sponsor tables, provide prizes or even be a guest speaker. Non-digital activities like this help build connections and relationships outside of social media bubbles. As a bonus, you can also often share on social media that you attended the event, what as great about it and position yourself as an active member of the business community. Video is great for this!

Referral incentives

• Offer existing clients referral incentives, such as discounts on future services, a free little gift or other in-kind offers. You can also partner with other businesses to setup transaction based referral programs - but make sure you are partnering with quality businesses that will not tarnish your brand.

• Friends and family. Let friends and family know you are looking for new business. It's simple and doesn't have to be a hard sell but it helps keep your business top of mind as they go about their lives and talk within their networks.

Social media

• There is a perception that social media is free - and yeah, in a way, it is but it does have a time cost. Organic social media takes time to create and schedule (particularly creative stuff) and to stand out you really have to be ready to jump in front of the camera. The types of content you need to create are either humorous, controversial (eg your hot take on something), educational and ... authentic.

• If you do not have the time and energy for that, you can consider a local  paid ad campaign to start building brand awareness. The time you save from creating content can be invested back into your business (via the methods above) or dedicating more time to clients.