Why GAPS...
Why GAPS
Most small businesses start with a great idea and limited resources. They’re built by our neighbors, our families, and our communities — and they play a critical role in meeting local needs. But in today’s digital-first world, many local businesses struggle to reach customers without the budget for expensive advertising or complex marketing systems.
GAPS exists to close that gap.
We created GAPS to help local businesses get discovered, supported, and chosen by the communities they serve. Our goal is to provide affordable, accessible ways for small businesses to increase visibility and connect with customers — without relying on costly promotions or ad-heavy strategies.
Through business listings, email marketing, newsletters, and local promotion, GAPS gives small businesses a credible online presence while helping customers easily find and support businesses in their own neighborhoods.
Why buy local...
Local businesses strengthen communities.
They help build the local tax base, which supports better schools, stronger community services, and long-term neighborhood investment.
Local businesses create character and culture.
From farmers markets and coffee shops to boutiques and service providers, small businesses give each neighborhood its identity. They offer variety, personality, and experiences you won’t find in big-box retail.
Local businesses deliver personal, customer- focused service.
Because they are rooted in the community, local businesses prioritize relationships. Customers can connect directly with owners and managers, receive personalized service, and feel confident their support stays local.
Because local businesses are essential to thriving communities, GAPS exists to help them get discovered. We increase customer awareness and make it easier for locals to find, support, and choose the businesses that power their neighborhoods.
About the Founder
Daisy Curtis founded GAPS in Gary, Indiana, with a clear mission: help local small businesses get seen, supported, and chosen—without requiring large advertising budgets.
As Founder and CEO, Daisy brings years of experience in communications, administration, and community advocacy. She created GAPS to give small business owners access to affordable visibility tools that help them connect with local customers, grow sustainably, and focus on what matters most—running their businesses.
GAPS was built to solve a common challenge facing local entrepreneurs: limited time, limited resources, and limited access to effective marketing. By offering cost-effective listings, community promotion, and email marketing support, GAPS helps bridge the gap between small businesses and the customers actively looking for their services.
In addition to GAPS, Daisy founded the Support Gary Businesses Facebook Group—an affiliate community designed to unite residents, entrepreneurs, and advocates around one goal: strengthening Gary’s local economy by supporting the businesses that power it.
If you’re interested in learning more—or starting a similar initiative in your own community—contact GAPS today.
Insider Access for Local Businesses
The GAPS Networking Listings Guide highlights what’s happening across the local business community—from events and promotions to networking opportunities that drive real connections.
For less than the cost of a cup of coffee, businesses can increase their visibility, stay informed, and position themselves in front of customers and collaborators each month.
GAPS Listings help business owners:
Discover relevant networking opportunities
Follow up with meaningful local connections
Stay visible within the community consistently
Because visibility shouldn’t be expensive—and community growth works best when everyone can participate.
