With social media filled with adages about supporting small business and shopping locally, consumers increasingly want to encourage fledgling businesses, keep local money in local pockets and within their community. From shopping at the local market to being a sampler for a friend’s new idea, shoppers like to feel their contribution has helped someone follow their dreams.

For trade buying, it can be particularly difficult to find small businesses with exciting new products that you know could be a top seller in your store. Some have the goods but are not yet ready to be a commercial supplier. Others however, are ripe to be discovered if you take the time to look for them.

So how do you find these hidden treasures when you don’t know what you’re looking for? The good news is, some organisations such as the Australian Gift and Homewares Association (AGHA) are actively seeking these businesses out to make it easier for you. The Launch Pad at the biannual AGHA Gift Fairs offers a dedicated space for Australian and New Zealand start-up businesses looking to make the transition to wholesaling. Since beginning in mid-2016, the program will have helped over 80 brand new businesses in the gift, stationery, toy, fashion and home sectors, take to trade selling through the Sydney and Melbourne AGHA Gift Fairs.

The upcoming AGHA Melbourne Gift Fair is expected to be the largest display of industry start-up businesses ever seen in Australia under one roof with over 40 exhibitors in The Launch Pad. Spaces such as The Launch Pad are a great place for retailers to start to find never seen before product and originals straight from the artist or designer, all in one place.

There is a world of people creating unique and innovative products just waiting for you to find them. By taking the time to search them out, you’re sure to come across a next bestseller that will help you stay one step ahead of your competitors whilst supporting emerging entrepreneurs entering the industry. If teamwork makes the dream work, then shopping small supports us all.