Business idea · Media
Local Business WhatsApp Network
Local Business WhatsApp Network: Create a WhatsApp group that connects local business owners, allowing them to share insights, collaborate, and support each other's growth. It was pitched on The Side Hustle Show, hosted by Nick Loper, in the episode "719: $1,000 per Postcard: The Every Door Direct Mail Side Hustle" (aired January 22, 2026).
At a glance
| Podcast | The Side Hustle Show |
|---|---|
| Hosted by | Nick Loper |
| Episode | 719: $1,000 per Postcard: The Every Door Direct Mail Side Hustle |
| Aired | January 22, 2026 |
| Category | Media |
| Real companies on the episode | ValPAC, Big Sky Automation, Community Card Playbook, Local Print Shop |
The problem it solves
This addresses the isolation many small business owners feel and provides a platform for networking, resource sharing, and community support.
How it makes money
Membership model where businesses pay a small fee to join and participate in the network, with added benefits such as exclusive resources or events.
Skills you need
Skills in community management, communication, and digital marketing are necessary to effectively facilitate the group and drive engagement.
The market, and why this works now
WhatsApp's growing popularity as a communication tool among small businesses makes this network viable. A practical first-revenue move could involve listing the group on local chamber-of-commerce directories to attract members seeking community and support. One risk to consider is the potential for high customer acquisition costs, especially if the group relies heavily on outreach and promotional efforts to build initial membership.
Our analysis, written after the episode. Not a quote from the show.
Real companies discussed on this episode
- ValPAC
A direct mail company that sends out promotional materials featuring multiple businesses, allowing them to share advertising space.
- Big Sky Automation
A business that offers postcard advertising services to local businesses through Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) by the USPS.
- Community Card Playbook
A platform that helps individuals start and grow local advertising businesses by leveraging community engagement.
- Local Print Shop
A printing service utilized by local businesses for promotional materials.
Where this idea came from
Podcast: The Side Hustle Show, hosted by Nick Loper
Episode: 719: $1,000 per Postcard: The Every Door Direct Mail Side Hustle
Aired:
Summarized from the episode transcript. The show does not say which speaker raised each idea, so we credit the show, not a person.