Bridging the gap: How hosting providers can become the go-to digital partner for SMBs

For years, hosting providers have been key in helping small businesses get online. But in 2025 SMBs aren’t just looking for a place to park their website, they’re looking for a provider they can trust to help them thrive online with minimal fuss.
Hosting providers have the opportunity to move from infrastructure providers to strategic digital partners for the small businesses of today. By offering a bundled mix of services, think hosting, domain registration, a site builder, e-commerce functionality, professional email and SSL certificates, hosting providers can become the one-stop shop small businesses owners can trust to help them launch and manage their online presence.
Why SMBs need more than just hosting
The average small business owner doesn’t have a huge amount of web design experience. They’re juggling everything from customer service and inventory to marketing and admin. They want something that’s simple, effective, affordable and just works.
That’s where hosting providers can step in, not just as vendors but as digital partners. With the right product mix and add-ons, they can help SMBs get up and running faster, feel supported, and actually see results from their online presence.
Bundling essentials: What SMBs need
Let’s break down what a compelling SMB package might look like:
- Domain registration: The foundation of any online identity.
- Website builder: A simple, intuitive tool that allows users to build a beautiful, responsive website.
- E-commerce functionality: The tools to sell products and services, manage orders and accept payments.
- Professional email: A yourname@yourbusiness.com email address keeps things professional.
- SSL certificate: Essential for security, trust and accessibility.
When packaged together in a way that’s easy to understand and simple to manage, it becomes a powerful offer for small business owners who want to get online.
Why simplicity is key
At BaseKit, we’ve built our software with simplicity at the heart. Our white-label site builder, e-commerce and bookings products are explicitly designed with the small business owner in mind. Meaning they can build their website, sell products online and take bookings without needing a web designer or developer.
Going beyond the tools
Great software is just part of the equation. Hosting providers wanting to become digital partners must think bigger than just the product. That’s why we also support our partners with go-to-market strategies, ongoing account management and a robust platform with 24/7 operational support. We believe these augmented benefits can be a game changer for hosting companies looking to scale faster and serve their customers better.
Becoming the go-to digital partner
So how do hosting companies leap from service provider to go-to digital partner? It comes down to three things:
- Offer a complete, easy-to-use toolkit: Bundling domains, hosting, a website builder, e-commerce, email, and SSL gives SMBs everything they need to get started.
- Focus on user experience: Prioritise intuitive, user-friendly tools that don’t require technical knowledge.
- Provide ongoing value: Go beyond the product with expert support, insights, and a genuine commitment to your customer’s success.
When done right, this approach builds trust, improves retention, and drives long-term growth for you and your customers.
Capitalise on the opportunity
The small business market is more digital than ever, and SMBs are hungry for effective solutions. Hosting providers are in a unique position to meet that need if they’re willing to evolve. By offering a smart, simple and supportive bundle of digital services, they can become a true partner for their small business customers.