Disclaimer: The articles published here on the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division website are meant to be a helpful starting point as you explore doing business in our community. They’re not the final word on rules, requirements, or what’s best for your unique situation. We always recommend checking in with legal, financial, or other professionals for advice tailored to your business.
So, you’ve taken the leap. Your business is up and running (or almost there), and now you’re ready for customers to find you.
Whether you’re opening a flower shop in Oakwood Hills, launching a cleaning service from your home, or setting up a salon downtown, one thing’s for sure: you need a solid marketing plan to spread the word locally. That doesn’t have to involve big budgets or nationwide campaigns. In a community like Eau Claire, Wisconsin, a little local know-how goes a long way.
Here are some straightforward, practical ways to start building your presence and connecting with customers nearby.
Start with Your Story
Before you jump into ads, hashtags, and all things marketing, take a moment to pause and think about your story. Every business has one, and yours is the foundation for connecting with your customers.
Why did you start this business? Maybe you spotted a gap in the Eau Claire market, wanted to turn a hobby into a career, or dreamed of being your own boss. Whatever your reason, that personal motivation is powerful. It’s what makes you different from big-box stores or online-only shops. People in Eau Claire like supporting local businesses, especially when they get to know the person behind the product or service. Sharing your story makes your business relatable, transforming a simple purchase into a connection.
Think about what makes your products or services special too. Are you sourcing ingredients locally? Creating handcrafted goods? Offering expert knowledge and friendly service that customers can’t find anywhere else? These details matter because they help customers see why they should choose you.
Once you have your story, use it to shape your messaging everywhere:
- On your website, create an “About” page that goes beyond facts. Share your journey, your values, and what excites you about your work.
- On social media, post behind-the-scenes glimpses, introduce your team, or talk about local spots that inspire you.
- When handing out business cards or brochures, include a short, heartfelt message inviting people to connect beyond the sale.
When your messaging is authentic and personal, customers can feel it. That trust turns first-time visitors into loyal fans. After all, people don’t just buy products; they support people, stories, and communities. And here in Eau Claire, that connection means everything.
Claim Your Digital Real Estate
Even if most of your customers visit your storefront or call you directly, chances are they’ll check you out online first. That makes it essential to have a digital presence that’s easy to find, accurate, and welcoming. Think of it as your virtual front door. If it’s easy to find and inviting, people are more likely to step inside.
Here’s your must-do list to stake your claim online:
Your Website: The Hub That Ties It All Together
In this day and age, a website is essentially mandatory for every business. Think of it as your online home base—a place you control where customers can find everything about you.
If you’re working with a web designer or building your website yourself (There are lots of easy-to-use, affordable web page builders out there, like Squarespace or Wix!), keep it simple and easy to navigate. Make sure your contact info is easy to find. Include your hours, menus or product lists if relevant, and a bit of your story to build connection. Since many customers browse on their phones, make sure your site looks great and works smoothly on mobile devices too.
Google Business Profile: Your Free Online Billboard
If you haven’t set up a Google Business Profile yet, put this at the top of your list after you build your website because it’s free, simple, and powerful. When someone searches for your business by name or for products and services you offer, your profile pops up with your hours, address, phone number, photos, and customer reviews.
It also helps your business show up on Google Maps, making it easier for people nearby to find you. This small setup can make a big difference, especially for new businesses. Plus, you can keep your profile fresh with specials, photos, or posts about upcoming events.
Social Media: Where Eau Claire Connects
You don’t need to be on every platform. Just be where your customers spend their time. For many Eau Claire businesses, Facebook and Instagram are reliable picks.
- Facebook works well for community-building, sharing events, and posting longer updates. Local groups are especially useful for connecting with neighbors and potential customers.
- Instagram is perfect if your business is visual—think restaurants, boutiques, artists, or services that shine through photos and videos. Sharing behind-the-scenes content, customer shoutouts, and stories builds a loyal following.
If social media feels overwhelming, start small. Focus on one platform until you’re comfortable, then grow from there. Consistency is key. Even posting once or twice a week keeps your audience engaged and reminds them you’re open for business.
Claiming your digital space doesn’t have to take forever or be costly. A clear, friendly online presence helps your business stand out in Eau Claire’s vibrant local market and brings more customers through your doors, virtual or real.
Connect with the Community
One of the best parts about doing business in Eau Claire is our strong community spirit. People here genuinely want to support local entrepreneurs, and that energy can give your business a real boost. Tapping into it is good for your business and rewarding personally.
Here’s how to build those local connections:
Join Local Groups & Organizations
Getting involved with groups like the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Eau Claire, Inc. (DECI), or Rotary Club of Eau Claire is one of the smartest things you can do. Which group fits best depends on your location and business type.
These aren’t just memberships either; they’re hubs of support and opportunity. They often:
- Promote member businesses through newsletters, websites, and social media
- Host networking events where you can meet fellow entrepreneurs
- Organize workshops to help sharpen your skills
- Coordinate city-wide events that bring in customers and visitors
Being part of these groups helps you stay connected, learn, and get your name out there.
Show Up at Local Events
Eau Claire has tons of community events, from farmers markets and street festivals to art fairs and holiday celebrations.
These are great places to introduce yourself and your business face-to-face. And they also give you a chance to get to know your customers—their likes, needs, and how your business fits the local scene.
You don’t have to start with a big booth or spend a fortune on signs and print materials right away. Just attending, chatting with people, and handing out business cards or flyers can make a big impact. Then, when you’re further along, you can consider becoming a vendor or sponsor at an event for more exposure.
Collaborate with Fellow Local Businesses
Early on, partnering with other local entrepreneurs in complementary industries can be another win-win.
You might co-host events, cross-promote on social media, or create bundled offers that encourage customers to shop local across several businesses. For example, a florist might partner with a local chocolate maker to offer gift baskets around the holidays. Or a coffee shop could partner with a local greenhouse to host a pop-up plant sale. This type of collaboration widens both of your audiences by tapping into each other’s networks, and it builds goodwill that strengthens Eau Claire’s business community.
Don’t think of connecting as just marketing; it’s about being part of something bigger. Eau Claire welcomes new businesses, and the more you engage, the more support and opportunities you’ll find.
Get Local Media on Your Side
Never underestimate the power of a great local story. Eau Claire’s media—from print and online magazines to TV and newspapers—are always eager to highlight brand new or growing businesses. Getting their attention can give your venture a big boost by reaching thousands of potential customers.
Local favorites include Volume One (a popular community magazine), WQOW or WEAU (local TV stations), and The Leader-Telegram (the city’s trusted daily newspaper). Each offers unique ways to get your story in front of the community.
If you’re launching a new product, opening a storefront, or hosting an event like a grand opening or fundraiser, send out a press release. A press release is a brief, clear announcement explaining what’s happening, where, and why it matters. It doesn’t need to be fancy—just straightforward and interesting.
If that sounds too intimidating, you can also reach out with a short email introducing yourself and your business with a short summary of your story. Sometimes a heartfelt, personal tale about why you started or how you’re giving back is exactly what catches a reporter’s eye. Local journalists are always looking for fresh stories that connect with their audience, so your business could be next!
Getting media coverage builds credibility and trust right out of the gate. Plus, appearing in trusted local outlets can attract customers who likely haven’t heard of you yet.
Don’t Forget the Basics
Sometimes the best marketing tools are the simplest, and they don’t require the latest tech or a big marketing budget. When you’re starting out, these old-school methods can do the trick with getting your name out and building a loyal customer base.
Flyers & Posters: Small But Mighty
Think about places where locals gather—coffee shops like The Coffee Grounds or SHIFT, community bulletin boards at libraries, or neighborhood centers. These spots are perfect for flyers or posters that showcase what you offer. Keep your design clear and eye-catching, include your contact info, and highlight any specials or events. Sometimes all it takes is one glance over coffee to spark interest.
Branded Swag: Wear Your Name Proudly
Everyone loves freebies, and branded swag turns customers into walking billboards. Stickers, magnets, reusable bags, or buttons are affordable ways to spread your brand. Give them out at events, with purchases, or as social media giveaways. When customers use your swag, it keeps your business top of mind and can spark conversations.
Word of Mouth: Your Best Marketing Ally
Personal recommendations are powerful too. Happy customers are your best promoters, but they may need a little encouragement, so don’t be shy about asking satisfied customers to tell friends, leave reviews online, or tag your business on social media. Positive reviews on Google, Facebook, or Yelp boost your credibility and attract new customers who rely on those ratings.
Remember, every bit of marketing counts, especially when you’re building momentum. Combining these basics with your digital efforts and community connections creates a well-rounded approach that helps your Eau Claire business thrive.
Take It One Step at a Time
Marketing doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or expensive in an entrepreneurial community like Eau Claire, where relationships and reputation matter just as much as ad spend. Start small, be consistent, and focus on building genuine connections. You’ve already done a lot of the hardest parts by starting your business; it’s just about helping people find you now.
And if you ever need guidance, the City of Eau Claire Economic Development team is here to point you toward resources. We’re rooting for you!
Source: Article Cover Illustration by Freepik
About The Author
Kendall Williams
City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division
Kendall’s role is to champion local businesses at every stage of their journey. Whether it’s helping new entrepreneurs find the right location, supporting existing businesses as they grow, managing the City’s loan programs, or providing data to guide smart decisions, she’s all about making Eau Claire a place where businesses can thrive.
