Chapter 5 - Events, Actions & Momentum
Walks and tours with lawmakers, media, or community leaders give a real-life, on-the-ground look at how policies affect small businesses. They create moments for:
Storytelling directly from business owners
Visual and emotional connection to your issue
Building relationships with decision-makers
Press coverage that centers community voices
Why Walks and Tours work
What makes it effective?
1. A strong narrative – Choose a unifying theme (e.g., healthcare costs, paid leave, infrastructure).
2. The right audience – Invite lawmakers, candidates, agency reps, press, and community leaders.
3. Owner voices – Keep stops short and impactful. Have each business prep a 1–2 minute story.
4. A media hook – Create visual moments (e.g., “Main Street Tax Tour,” “Fairness Walk”).
Planning tips
Walk the route in advance
Confirm business participation
Keep the event moving and on schedule
Designate someone to guide the group and another to manage press
What’s a walk or tour?
A guided visit down a Main Street or business corridor
A series of stops at local businesses impacted by your issue
An opportunity to hear firsthand stories from owners and workers
A soft but effective form of pressure on lawmakers or targets