3 Free Tools Every Small Business Should Use Before Running Ads

Running ads without preparation is like driving blindfolded—you’ll waste money, time, and energy. Before you spend even a shilling on Facebook or Google ads, there are 3 free tools that can save small businesses from rookie mistakes and help maximize ROI.

Let’s dive in.

1. Meta Ads Library

📍 Best for competitor research.

Before you launch your ad, check what’s already working in your industry. The Meta Ads Library lets you spy on active Facebook and Instagram ads from competitors.

How it helps you:

• See the exact headlines, creatives, and offers others are running.

• Spot trends in your niche (seasonal promos, discounts, free consults).

• Avoid guesswork—learn from proven strategies.

👉 Pro Tip: Search your service + location (e.g., “roof repair Nairobi”) to see what local competitors are advertising.

2. Ubersuggest (Free Version)

📍 Best for keyword and SEO insights.

Ubersuggest is a free SEO tool that helps you discover which keywords people are searching for your services. Even if you’re not doing Google Ads, this insight is gold.

How it helps you:

• Find high-volume, low-competition keywords.

• Learn the actual terms people use (they may not search “roof waterproofing” but rather “stop roof leaks”).

• Plan ad copy and landing pages around real demand.

👉 Pro Tip: Use the free keyword search daily limit wisely—look for 3-5 core services you want to advertise.

3. Canva (Free Plan)

📍 Best for ad creatives.

Eye-catching creatives can make or break your ad performance. With Canva’s free plan, you can design professional graphics, videos, and carousel posts—even with zero design skills.

How it helps you:

• Pre-built ad templates sized perfectly for Facebook, Instagram, and Google.

• Quick editing with your brand colors and fonts.

• Saves money on hiring a designer in the early stages.

👉 Pro Tip: Use “before/after” style images or bold text overlays to instantly grab attention.

⚡ Bonus: Google Analytics (Free)

If you have a website, Google Analytics is a must. It tracks where your leads come from, how they behave on your site, and which pages convert best.

✅ Final Word

Before running ads, small businesses should always prepare:

1. Meta Ads Library → Learn from competitors.

2. Ubersuggest → Find the right keywords.

3. Canva → Create scroll-stopping visuals.

   
   

These free tools help you avoid wasting ad spend and give you a head start on launching campaigns that actually work.

⚡ Want to learn how to use these tools 1 on 1? Click "Get Started" to begin.