Drive through Waco, and you’ll find more than just restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques; you’ll find the heart of an entire community. Small businesses help shape Waco’s identity, create jobs, and provide the unique experience that residents and visitors have come to expect when they think of Waco.

“Supporting small businesses in our own community is so important. You’re contributing to the people and brands that Waco itself has nurtured and grown—products that are created specifically to give back to its citizens. Entrepreneurs are creating jobs and making sure that the money we earn stays in the city we love and with the people we love.” – Victor Hernandez, owner of Fox & Co. Bakery.

The Backbone of Downtown Waco

Local businesses play a vital role in Waco’s economy. They are responsible for creating jobs, supporting other small businesses, and helping contribute to the character that sets Downtown Waco apart. From family-owned restaurants and shops to specialty retailers and service providers, these entrepreneurs help to transform ideas into destinations that serve the community every day.

“I could not have imagined putting this store anywhere else in Waco. Downtown was home! It was a vision I saw in 1997 and one that I still see & am still proud to be a part of today!” – Jennifer Wilson, owner of Spice Village.

Waco’s downtown has long been driven by local entrepreneurs. As the Public Improvement District No. 1 and surrounding area has grown, local business owners have remained at the center of that momentum, investing their creativity, time, and resources to create places where people can shop, dine, and connect.

The Challenges of Running a Small Business

While running a small business can feel rewarding, it still has its fair share of challenges. During specific times of the year, many of Downtown Waco’s businesses struggle to keep up revenue. These seasons often coincide with times that Baylor’s students return home for the holidays or summer, making it difficult to maintain a constant stream of income for many local owners.

“We see huge spikes during tourist-heavy seasons such as spring break and Baylor home games. There tends to be a dip in summertime for us as people travel, which picks back up in the fall.” – Kaelin Evans, Events Manager and Coordinator for Southern Roots Brewing Co.

These small businesses also navigate rising operational costs, staffing needs, and ever-changing customer trends. Behind every storefront is a team working hard to adapt, innovate, and continue serving customers through both the slow and busy seasons. 

Opportunities for Growth in Downtown Waco

Despite these challenges, Downtown Waco still presents plenty of exciting opportunities for local entrepreneurs. Tourism growth, new residents, and a current increase in shopping local have assisted in making downtown a place where small businesses can thrive.

“There has been a growth in demand for premium services and products in Waco, especially with new businesses in the downtown area, with some of them being geared towards high-end/fine dining. The growth of downtown as a whole has changed drastically in even the last 7 years we’ve been operating, and it’s been incredible to be a part of and witness that change.”- Kaelin Evans, Events Manager and Coordinator for Southern Roots Brewing Co.

Business owners have to constantly find new ways to be creative and connect with customers — whether through their unique products or services, memorable events, or partnerships with fellow local businesses. These efforts help to strengthen not only individual businesses but the downtown community as a whole.

The Power of Community Support

Supporting a local business doesn’t always require making a major purchase. Every visit, recommendation, social media post, or review can help grow a small business and assist it in reaching new customers. 

When community members choose to dine, shop, and spend locally, more dollars stay within the local economy. That support allows business owners to invest back into their teams, storefronts, and the community they love.

“The support of our community made our brick-and-mortar possible. One of the things we love most about Waco is its incredible small-business community — entrepreneurs who genuinely root for each other and lead with camaraderie instead of competition. Beyond that, there is a growing number of Wacoans who generally love to support local businesses that are becoming loyal fans of their favorites on our menu.” – Victor Hernandez, owner of Fox & Co. Bakery.

A thriving downtown depends on the people who support it. And the easiest way to do that is by keeping up with businesses on social media for events and stories. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up-to-date on the businesses that make our community special!