Nominations Now Being Accepted for Give Small Business a Lift Campaign

Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) is rolling out its third annual “Give Small Business A Lift” campaign to help promote and honor local small businesses, their owners, and employees. More than 150 Valley businesses have participated in the first two years.

“Give Small Business A Lift” is designed to promote local small businesses — spotlighting twelve local businesses that exemplify the Valley’s entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic.

“Small business is the backbone of our economy across the nation, especially here in the Valley. “Says Dean Harris, WRTA Executive Director. “WRTA is proud to provide transportation to much of the workforce of these businesses and this campaign is our effort to give them the recognition and support they deserve.”

How it works/Nominations

Small businesses located in Mahoning County can complete the short entry form below to nominate themselves. Nominations are being accepted now through Thursday, March 28, 2024.

Three local community leaders who serve as co-chairpersons select the winners from the nominations. The twelve winners will be notified the first week in April and presented their awards at the kickoff event on April 18 at Concept Studio in downtown Youngstown.

Twelve Winners Promoted

The twelve featured businesses will be promoted on WRTA buses, its giant digital sign downtown, on social media, and TV commercials.

Three Bonus Awards

During the kickoff event, drawings will be held for the winners in attendance for a TV advertising campaign donated by WKBN TV, a social media campaign donated by Farris Marketing, and a customer satisfaction survey for up to 100 customers, also donated by Farris Marketing.

Campaign Timing

The three-month-long promotion of the twelve featured businesses is scheduled to start and coincide with National Small Business Week (April 28 – May 4, 2024). The campaign and promotion will continue through July 30, 2024.

WRTA encourages all small businesses in the county to apply — even if the business applied previously.

Ready to Nominate Your Business?

You can nominate your business by filling out the form below by March 28. The businesses selected will be notified by email and announced on WRTA’s website and social media.

Following our request, WRTA has received many nominations from businesses that want to participate in this campaign. Watch for our forthcoming announcement of the small businesses that have been chosen.