Updated: December 14, 2022

29 Best Small Business Promotional Items for Marketing

You found our list of inexpensive small business promotional items.

Small business promotional items are products imprinted with a company’s name, logo, or slogan and given away for free or at a steep discount. Examples include pens, tote bags, drink bottles, coffee mugs, and cups. Companies often hand out these promotional items to attendees as part of their marketing campaigns.

These items can be purchased from corporate swag companies and promo product companies and are similar to swag bag ideas, conference giveaways, event swag, and employee gifts.

This article contains:

  • small business swag ideas
  • small business promotional items with no minimum
  • inexpensive small business promotional items
  • small business promo items

Let’s get started!

List of small business promotional items

Small business swag ideas can help you stand out from the crowd and spark conversation, whether you are using them as client gifts, handouts, trade fair swag, or general marketing. The following are ideas you can consider.

1. Mouse pad

A mouse pad is a novel and practical promotional product for small businesses. This item gives you a lot of room to experiment with design options. The many personalization options available for your mouse pad allow your imagination to run wild. For example, you can consider putting your company’s emblem, slogan, or a funny picture on the pad.

​Check out Mouse Pads.

2. Tote Bags

Tote bags are one of the most popular and inexpensive small business promotional items. Customers often use tote bags, so make sure you select a sturdy material. Tote bags are popular with companies of all sizes because their branding will be visible wherever consumers travel. In return, the item offers the businesses unlimited free promotions.

Tote bags are popular as promotional gifts because they provide enough room for imprinting a brand logo or business name. The bags are available from various materials, including canvas to recycled plastic, depending on your company’s marketing budget.

Check out tote bags.

3. Branded Apparel

Clothing items are popular as promotional giveaways because of their versatility. You can choose between different apparel options, including tees, hats, bandanas, and jerseys. In addition, if your merchandise has a cool design, then customers are more likely to use it.

Branded clothing, such as T-shirts, caps, and jackets, allow businesses to market their brands and make customers their advocates. Sales may rise as a result of increased brand recognition and promotion. Some businesses sell swag clothes to loyal customers looking to rep the brand.

​Pro tip: You can create unique limited-edition designs just for your fans so that customers feel like part of an exclusive club.

​Check out branded apparel.

4. Pens

Promoting your business with pens can get potential customers thinking about your company every time they take notes. Folks often use pens at work, so giving out your promotional item to them may help them remember your brand. Pens of high quality are also a great way to convey the professionalism of your brand.

​Check out pens.

5. Touch Tool

One of the items that saw a surge in demand during the coronavirus epidemic was a touch tool. Common materials include plastic and metal. The device functions as a substitute for the user’s hands, allowing them to operate buttons and grab handles without actually touching them. Such a giveaway would be a hit with recipients who are taking precautions to protect themselves from the germs that may be present in public spaces.

​Check out touch tools.

6. Collapsible Coffee Cup

Estimates from EarthDay.org show that annually, humans use about 16 billion takeout coffee cups. Although the coffee cup uses paper material, the plastic laminate on the inside renders the cup non-recyclable. Therefore, many eco-conscious individuals prefer to bring their foldable mugs for beverages when on the go. The foldability of these coffee cups is perhaps their most outstanding feature. Thus, the cup does not occupy plenty of room inside the bag.

Check out collapsible coffee cups.

7. Mobile Phone Fan

In recent years, portable fans have emerged as a hip fashion accessories. Thanks to its compact design, the phone fan is even more pocketable than before. When the temperature outside rises too high, customers can plug the fan into their phone and cool off while looking at your brand. This item is cheap, and your recipients will appreciate the functionality.

Check out mobile phone fans.

8. Multi-Tool

A multi-tool is any handheld device that serves multiple purposes. One example is a Swiss army knife, survival card, or compact survival tool. This promotional item is great because it is the kind of product you want to have on hand for quick fixes. Custom multi-tools with multiple functions are an excellent giveaway item for building-related conventions and trade shows. Recipients can carry these convenient giveaways about easily while providing a wealth of exposure for your brand. Gifting promotional multitools to staff members is a great way to show that you care about their safety.

Check out multi-tool.

9. Stickers

Stickers allow consumers to affix your company’s logo to any surface they like. For example, recipients can place a sticker on their laptops or connect it to their cars. Stickers can advertise one-time deals, ongoing promotions, or even a brand’s logo. The best part is that stickers are one of the cheapest ideas for promotions or giveaways.

Check out stickers.

10. Keychains

Personalized keychains are a fantastic marketing tool. These promo items are ideal for frequent usage and are small, light, and convenient to transport. Keychains come in many colors and designs, and you can even have your company’s name or logo printed on them. Customers can easily keep your brand’s message in front of their eyes by attaching a keychain to their keys. Keychains are typically inexpensive promotional items because of their small size. Key chains have a long shelf life and can boost brand awareness over time.

​Pro tip: Choose an unusual or functional keychain design, such as a bottle opener or mobile phone holder, to stand out from the crowd.

Check out keychains.

11. Lanyard

Employees may use a lanyard, a cloth cord worn around the neck, to secure items such as identification badges or office keys in the workplace. You can print your brand names and logos on lanyards. Since lanyards are often worn, they help spread awareness of a company’s name. A lanyard could be a good option if you want a promotional item to help get your company’s name out there.

Check out lanyards.

12. Drink Insulator

Adding your company’s logo to a drink sleeve or insulator is a simple and cost-efficient way to promote your business. In addition, customers may use this product more frequently since it is suitable for cold and hot beverages. More rarely seen than other promotional items, this giveaway can help remind potential clients that your business is cutting-edge and unique yet still fun and laid-back.

Check out drink insulators.

13. PVC Magnets

Custom PVC magnets are an excellent promotional item for small businesses. In addition to being cheap, lightweight, and simple to store, magnets are also fun to use as a decorative accent on your fridge or in any other creative way you can imagine. The magnets also last a lifetime, meaning continuous brand awareness.

The kitchen is where most homeowners spend their time. If you want to promote your business and remind customers about your brand, you may create a magnet calendar that they can stick on their refrigerator. Depending on the nature of your business, you may mark your calendar with a highlighter to indicate your preference for the recommended service delivery schedule.

Check out PVC Magnets.

14. Embroidered, or Woven Custom Patches

A custom patch is a great way to show your support for a cause. However, these patches can also be a great marketing tool for companies. Patches come in many colors and designs, and you can even have your company’s name or logo printed on them. You can pin the patch to your hat, shirt, jacket, or bag. Buying custom patches in bulk with an iron-on or velcro design could be a great way to add a unique touch to otherwise generic clothing items like caps, shirts, vests, and uniforms.

Find out more about custom patches.

15. Heat Transfer Labels

To spread the word about your business, try using heat transfer labels. In addition to being available in virtually any color and design imaginable, these labels also require no special tools for application and can attach to almost any surface. The best part is that these items are also extremely inexpensive compared to other promotional products. Heat transfers are more economical than screen printing because they require less preparation time and equipment investment.

Learn more about heat transfer labels.

16. Personalized Charms

Charms are an additional fantastic method of promoting your company. The small size means any gender can wear the charms for beauty purposes. Various platings and finishes, including gold, silver, antique, and sandblasted, are available for metal charms to make each one unique. You can also get printed charms of photographic quality.

Check out personalized charms.

17. Silicone Bands

Silicone wristbands and bracelets are fun and useful promotional items. These bands are cheap, available in many styles, and great for casual wear. Silicone bands are also highly durable. In addition, you can customize the band with your company’s name, logo, and slogan.

Check out silicone bands.

18. Luggage Tags

Customers who travel frequently will greatly value a promotional product like luggage tags. Luggage tags are a gift that will come in handy on a trip. Regardless of your customer’s location, you can rest assured that your brand will be with them the entire time. Branding a luggage tag can help you connect with customers. The luggage tag will make the recipient’s bags and suitcases easily recognizable.

Check out luggage tags.

19. Umbrella

You can give out branded umbrellas to your customers so they can stay dry no matter the weather. Umbrellas are one of the most common and practical gift items. Unexpected promotional items like umbrellas are often enthusiastically welcomed. Umbrellas have a far longer shelf life than other promotional items, usually lasting for years. Your business will get more exposure every time a client or potential customer uses an umbrella with your logo.

You should consider investing in high-quality printing when branding any promotional item that will be consistently in touch with water. This step ensures that the branding does not fade off after a short period of use.

Check out umbrellas.

20. Money Clips

Custom money clips are fantastic small business promo items because of their low cost and practicality. Promoting a business using a custom money clip branded with the company’s logo or motto is a one-of-a-kind and memorable method to get the word out. Folks use money clips regularly, so the receiver will remember the company’s generosity every time they use it. No matter how big or small, every business may benefit from using personalized money clips as a promotional item.

Check out money clips.

21. Lapels Pins

A personalized lapel pin is a terrific choice if you want to attract attention to your company creatively and memorably. Lapel pins are ideal for occasions where you need to stand out from the crowd, such as conferences and trade exhibits. In addition, these items are a wonderful method of appreciating consumers and staff who have gone the extra mile.

Check out lapel pins.

22. PopSockets

These very popular phone grips are smart because they serve numerous purposes. You may use the item as a grip, or you can open it up and use it as a stand for watching videos or reading! PopSockets are practical and customizable. By giving out PopSockets as promotional items, you can show off your brand on one of your recipients’ most used property. Every time your customers pick up their phones, they will see your brand.

Check out PopSockets.

23. Highlighter

Products that individuals can put to practical use regularly make for the best giveaways. Individuals use highlighters regularly. You can review the specifics of a work order or contract with your company’s branded highlighter, then gift it to the client later. The act will appear spontaneous and leave a positive impression in your consumer’s mind.

Check out highlighters.

24. Sticky Notes and Notebooks

A great way to imprint your brand on your customers’ minds is by showing your logo where they make mental notes. Anytime a client needs a reminder for tasks, your company will be there, from shopping lists to to-dos. Keeping a notepad on hand makes taking notes, coming up with ideas, or handling tasks easier. To give your company an air of professionalism at trade exhibitions, branded notebooks and notepads are perfect promotional items to hand out as paperweights.

You can keep in touch with your clientele by sending them branded notepads. The notebooks your firm provides should stand out. Various design options are available, depending on your preference. Combining notepads with other forms of advertising seems to have a harmonious impact on companies. Recipients will be grateful for the notes if you hand them out free of charge.

Check out sticky notes.

25. Sunglasses

Having a spare pair of shades is a need for anybody. This marketing strategy is entertaining, productive, and will get good reception. Sunglasses are so common that almost every individual has a spare pair. Plus, your company will gain some serious direct exposure. The sunglasses you hand out should be appropriate for your field. If you represent a cutting-edge IT firm, yFor example, you could go for bright, bold colors. Otherwise, choose a modern and chic look if you work in the fashion sector.

Check out sunglasses.

26. Reusable Straw Kits

Single-use plastic straws are not environmentally friendly. You can advertise your business while reducing waste and the associated guilt by providing unique reusable straws. Promotional items that do not harm the environment generally get wide acceptance. Potential clients will value the gesture and have a more favorable opinion of your business. You can engrave your company’s name on the metal straws and watch your brand’s visibility increase.

Check out reusable straw kits.

27. Customized Mugs

Custom-branded mugs are a great idea if you want to leave a lasting impression on your customers. This idea is cheap enough that it will not break the bank. A portable coffee mug that customers can use at their local coffee shop is an excellent example of a product that reflects your company’s commitment to sustainability.

Customized mugs are small business promotional items with no minimum order quantity. The product often produces a great return on investment. Printed mugs of any kind are more cost-effective than more conventional forms of advertising. Therefore, the ROI is usually relatively high.

Check out customized mugs.

29. Water Bottles

Custom water bottles are a practical means of advertising your company. These water bottles fulfill your needs, come in a rainbow of colors, and never go out of style. The greatest part is that these items are a powerful method of introducing a brand to a broad audience. Water bottles make great giveaways at corporate events, fitness centers, and educational institutions. Fitness buffs, athletes, and others who enjoy an active lifestyle would benefit greatly from this item. The act of handing out drinkware acts as a potent reminder for hydration. The bottle can also hold hot and cold beverages. If you are starting in the business world and want to impress potential customers without breaking the bank, this idea is the promotional product for you.

Check out water bottles.

Conclusion

Brand recognition is crucial when running a small business. The more folks who see your brand, the better. Therefore, promotional goods for small businesses can be so effective. A well-chosen promotional item may help you build a brand identity and desired customer connections. Customers take notice when a product is both practical and high-quality.

Next, check out these lists of small business books and cost-cutting ideas for businesses.

FAQ: Small business promotional items

Here are frequently asked questions about small business promotional items.

What are small business promotional items?

A small business promotional gift is an item with the company’s name and logo. These items, also known as swag or promotional materials, aim to keep your company’s name and logo in front of your target audience.

What are the best promo items for small businesses?

The best promo items include water bottles, custom PVC magnets, and lapel pins. Companies often distribute these goods at no cost during conventions and trade exhibitions to raise the public’s knowledge of their brand. Due to their low cost, these items also make excellent prizes for virtual contests and draws.

Why should small businesses use swag?

For a small company to succeed, the owner must do all possible to set themselves apart from the competitors and win over clients. Promotional products are one method to stand out. Offering a valuable bundle of bespoke promotional goods is a great approach to attracting and retain customers.

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Author:

People & Culture Director at teambuilding.com.
Grace is the Director of People & Culture at TeamBuilding. She studied Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University, Information Science at East China Normal University and earned an MBA at Washington State University.

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