For decades, small businesses in the North East have relied on local networks, word of mouth, and traditional markets to sustain their growth. From family-owned tea shops in Assam to handloom ventures in Manipur and eco-tourism homestays in Nagaland, the region’s entrepreneurial spirit has always been strong.
But in today’s digital-first world, being online is no longer optional — it’s essential. Whether you’re selling handicrafts, running a café, or offering professional services, the internet can help you reach new customers, showcase your products, and build lasting relationships.
At NEBN (North East Business Network), we believe that digital growth is one of the biggest opportunities for small businesses to scale. Here are 5 practical, easy-to-implement ways small businesses in the North East can grow online.
1. Build a Simple Yet Professional Online Presence
The first step in growing online is making it easy for customers to find you.
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Create a website or landing page that clearly explains who you are, what you offer, and how to contact you.
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Make sure it works on mobile phones (most customers in the North East browse on smartphones).
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Include basic information: location, services/products, prices (if relevant), and social media links.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overcomplicate it. A clean one-page website or even a Google Business Profile can be enough to get started.
2. Use Social Media to Tell Your Story
Social media is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to connect with customers. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn allow you to:
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Showcase your products and services with photos and videos.
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Share your business story to build trust and relatability.
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Use local language + English to connect with different audiences.
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Run engagement posts (polls, questions, tips) to keep customers interested.
💡 Pro Tip: People connect with stories more than ads. Share behind-the-scenes content, customer testimonials, or “day in the life” posts to create authenticity.
3. Leverage Online Marketplaces
Not every small business can drive traffic to its own website immediately — and that’s where marketplaces come in.
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E-commerce: Platforms like Amazon India, Flipkart, or Meesho can give North East products a national reach.
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Handmade & crafts: Use Etsy, GlobalShiksha, or niche sites to sell handloom, bamboo, and organic items globally.
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Food & hospitality: Register on Swiggy, Zomato, or MakeMyTrip for local visibility.
💡 Pro Tip: Start with one platform that matches your business type, and grow from there.
4. Engage Customers Through Messaging Apps
In the North East, apps like WhatsApp and Instagram DM are often more powerful than email.
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Share new arrivals, offers, or updates directly with your customers.
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Create WhatsApp Broadcast Lists or small groups for loyal customers.
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Respond quickly — fast replies build trust and repeat sales.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep communication professional but friendly. Share useful updates, not just promotions.
5. Invest in Digital Learning & Community
The online world changes fast, and businesses that learn continuously will always stay ahead.
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Join business communities like NEBN to exchange ideas and best practices.
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Attend workshops and webinars on marketing, branding, and sales.
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Learn basic skills like how to run a Facebook ad, design a poster in Canva, or track online sales.
💡 Pro Tip: You don’t need to be an expert in everything — focus on learning one new digital skill each month.
Conclusion
For small businesses in the North East, going online is not just about survival — it’s about unlocking new opportunities.A professional presence, active social media, smart use of marketplaces, direct customer engagement, and continuous learning can transform even the smallest venture into a growth story.
At NEBN, we are committed to helping entrepreneurs in the North East embrace digital tools and strategies so they can thrive in the modern economy. Whether you’re just starting out or already established, the online world offers a level playing field — and the time to step in is now.
