Support Today and Any Day You Can
Small Business Saturday is a key annual event promoting the significance of small businesses in communities. Launched in 2010 by American Express, it falls on the Saturday after Thanksgiving in the United States, strategically positioned between Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Its purpose is to encourage consumers to support local businesses, fostering economic growth in their neighborhoods. Here's an overview of its importance and impact:
- Boosts Local Economies: Dollars spent at small businesses typically stay within the community, creating a ripple effect by supporting other local ventures and services.
- Job Creation: Small businesses are a major source of employment in the U.S., accounting for nearly half of the workforce. Increased patronage helps sustain and grow these jobs.
- Revenue Surge: Many small businesses experience a significant revenue boost on Small Business Saturday, which can help tide them over slower periods.
- Strengthens Neighborhoods: Supporting small businesses nurtures a sense of community pride and connection.
- Unique Offerings: Local businesses often provide specialized products, services, and experiences that cannot be found in large retail chains.
- Philanthropic Contributions: Small businesses often give back to their communities through donations, sponsorships, or support for local initiatives.
- Celebrates Entrepreneurship: The event highlights the creativity, resilience, and dedication of small business owners.
- Builds Relationships: Shopping locally fosters personal connections between consumers and shop owners, strengthening trust and loyalty.
- Promotes Visibility: The day brings attention to the challenges small businesses face, such as competition from large retailers and e-commerce giants.
- Encourages Year-Round Support: While the day itself is a focal point, its messaging inspires ongoing customer loyalty beyond the holiday season.
- Online Presence: Many small businesses now utilize online platforms, enabling them to participate in Small Business Saturday through e-commerce and social media promotions.
- Hybrid Shopping Experiences: The integration of in-store and online shopping allows small businesses to compete with larger entities.
- In 2022, an estimated $17.8 billion was spent by U.S. consumers on Small Business Saturday, showcasing its economic importance.
- According to surveys, 70% of consumers say they are more likely to frequent small businesses because of the awareness raised by the event.
- Shop at local stores and markets.
- Share small business promotions on social media.
- Leave positive reviews and spread word-of-mouth recommendations.
- Choose local restaurants or services over chains.
By participating in Small Business Saturday, consumers contribute to sustaining the vitality and uniqueness of their communities while empowering small business owners.
