For Small Business Week, we asked local owners and employees what makes Austin’s small business scene special. Their responses point to a common thread: a culture of support, collaboration, and community over competition.
By the way, don’t forget to take advantage of Small Business Week deals across the city through Saturday, May 10.
Editor’s note: Responses have been edited for clarity and brevity.
Eileen Artigas, Fitcidence
“In Austin, the little guys actually have a chance. I’m from Miami, where a small, pop-up fitness business like Fitcidence — which was a pop-up for four years before we opened our first brick and mortar this year — probably wouldn’t have survived. The culture in Miami leans toward big chains, and people aren’t as open to investing in small, local ventures. But Austin is different.
There’s a real culture of supporting and shopping small. People here understand the value of community and the importance of finding a third space, a place outside of work and home where they can show up, see familiar faces, and feel connected. We’ve seen our community root for us and want to see us win, and that kind of support is what has given Fitcidence the space to grow.”
Abby Strite, Birdhouse Books and Gifts
“Honestly, we all support each other so strongly. There’s a vibrant community of small business owners here who all know that we rise together.”
Moya and Colin McIntyre, Stargazer + Springdale Station
“People in Austin love local businesses, they want to know that their favorite bar or restaurant is owned by a real human who lives and works in Austin and who cares about our community.”
Keighley Reisenauer, Sprout & Stitch
“Austin’s small business scene thrives on creativity, community, and a strong ‘support local’ mindset. The city’s entrepreneurial spirit is fueled by a mix of artisans, makers, and tech innovators, creating a diverse marketplace where handmade goods, sustainable practices, and unique experiences shine. With frequent markets, pop-ups, and a culture that values individuality, Austin provides an ideal environment for small businesses to grow and connect with passionate customers.”
Rachel White, OutWellness
“It’s a small town in a big city. It’s amazing, the history and culture within the Austin small business community. Each of us is so very different but yet we help tie together Austin’s diverse community threads, providing physical spaces that invite people to explore their interests or be their special brand of Austin ‘weird’ in an environment that’s built to serve them.”
Carsen Russell, Alcott Candles
“Small business owners in Austin are so supportive and always trying to help each other out. There is truly a mentality of a rising tide lifts all boats among Austin small business owners.”
LaToya Westbrook, The Inked Alch3mist
“Austin’s small business scene is unique because of its strong entrepreneurial spirit, vibrant creative community, and devoted support for local businesses. I love how this city thrives on a mix of tech startups, wellness practitioners, and artisans fueled by a culture that values and respects innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. Austin’s reputation as a wellness-conscious city makes it an ideal place for holistic practitioners like The Inked Alch3mist to grow.”
