“What is an example of a microlevel community?”
As a business owner, understanding the concept of a microlevel online community is essential for successful niche targeting and resonating with your audience.
The long tail has opened up an ocean of opportunity to connect with like-minded people, no matter how small the hobby or interest, and no matter the distance between people. Being able to scale down your focus is key to identifying and dominating these tiny markets.
So, what should founders be looking for when it comes to slicing off your own piece of the market and building a microlevel community?
What Is an Example of a Microlevel Community?
One example of a microlevel community is a small town business association formed by local business owners. With a website and email list for efficient communication, and dues collected online through a payment processor such as Stripe, the whole thing can be efficiently packaged into a nice little online membership community.
Associations help small businesses grow, expand into new markets, and remain competitive in a global market that’s becoming increasingly complex. Moreover, they help start-ups and entrepreneurs realize their dreams of owning a business.
Members can connect and exchange ideas at events, workshops, and networking opportunities. Local business associations can help business owners get insights, build relationships, and contribute to their community’s growth.
But microlevel communities also exist online. Here are some other examples of microlevel communities you may see around the net:
- Bonsai Enthusiasts: People who grow and cultivate bonsai trees are bonsai enthusiasts. Outside of Japan, this niche is very small. Designed to create harmony and tranquility, these miniature trees are meticulously pruned and shaped. Bonsai enthusiasts usually meet in clubs or online forums to share tips, share ideas, and show off their work. The members discuss bonsai techniques, species, and care routines, often organizing workshops and exhibitions to promote this unique form of gardening.
- Urban Beekeepers: The term urban beekeeper refers to someone who keeps beehives in the city or suburbs. There aren’t many people doing this and they face special challenges with zoning and neighbors so could benefit from expert advice received in an online community. Their job is to promote bee conservation, pollination, and honey production in cities. Community gardens, rooftop gardens, and parks are common places where urban beekeepers collaborate to keep bees healthy. They get training on bee behavior, hive management, and honey extraction. A lot of urban beekeepers do outreach programs to educate the community about bees and sustainable beekeeping.
- Retro Gaming Collectors: Retro gaming collectors collect and preserve vintage video game consoles, cartridges, and accessories. They love classic gaming systems from the 80s and 90s, like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Sega Genesis, or Atari 2600. Collectors of retro games meticulously restore and maintain their collections, often sharing their knowledge on forums or social media. As collectors, they go to trade shows, conventions, and auctions dedicated to retro gaming, where they can meet other collectors. A community focused on finding and trading retro games might really take off.
- Minimalist Travelers: A minimalist traveler is someone who embraces a minimalist lifestyle while traveling. Forums would be a great tool for these people to exchange travel advice, connect with others in the lifestyle, and share discounts. They’re more focused on experiences than stuff, opting for a simpler and more intentional travel experience. A minimalist traveler packs only essential items, minimizing their environmental impact and traveling light. They often share their travel stories, tips, and minimalist packing hacks through blogs, vlogs, and social media platforms. Authentic cultural experiences and off-the-beaten-path destinations are also popular with minimalist travelers.
- Alpaca Fiber Artists: Alpaca fiber artists create beautiful and unique artwork with alpaca fiber. You can imagine how small this niche is – definitely “micro” in scale. Their products include scarves, sweaters, hats, and blankets made from alpaca wool. Artists who work with alpaca fiber often source their materials from ethical and sustainable farms. To show off and sell their creations, they participate in local craft fairs, exhibitions, and online marketplaces. In addition to alpaca fiber art, alpaca fiber artists offer workshops and tutorials to inspire others.
These tiny niche communities show how diverse and passionate people are about what they love. People like to connect, share knowledge, and pursue their passions in these communities, whether they’re cultivating bonsai trees, keeping bees in urban areas, collecting retro gaming consoles, traveling minimalistically, or creating art from alpaca fiber.
Read next: What Is A Membership Community Business?
