Show Support for Small Businesses and the Community!

As the voice for our nation’s entrepreneurs, the U.S. Small Business Administration supports small businesses and business owners every day. When our small businesses do well, our communities do, too. Therefore, as part of our annual tradition, I encourage you to join millions of Americans during the traditional start of the holiday shopping season and “shop small” on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 25.

On the heels of “Black Friday,” shopping small is a concrete way to support small retailers – the same businesses that generate two of every three net new jobs and deliver essential goods and services to America’s communities 365 days a year.

Last year, there were 112 million consumers “shopping small” on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, spending more than $15.4 billion. Surveys show that 72 percent of consumers said Small Business Saturday inspires them to “shop small” throughout the year and not just for the holidays. In addition, more than 60 percent of consumers state the main reason they support small businesses is because of their contributions to the local community.

You can do your part with these five simple steps:

• If you are a business owner, make sure you’re prepared for the holiday shopping season by checking out helpful advice at http://www.sba.gov/saturday.

• If you’re a customer, commit to making at least one purchase from a locally-owned small business retailer. Get to know the owner, and make your gift more meaningful by sharing their story as part of what you give your loved ones.

• Enjoy the experience. Travel outside your comfort zone -- and away from your computer screen – to discover a shopping district with some trendy local stores. 

• Take part in Small Business Saturday on social media, using the hashtag #ShopSmall to amplify your support. If you find a great small business retailer with unique products, Tweet or Facebook your find so others can enjoy it too.

• When you open your gifts, start a conversation about which one came from the most distinctive and creative sellers. This can make for great debate over eggnog or your holiday drink of choice.

I know I’ll be shopping small with my friends and family on Saturday, Nov. 25. I encourage you to do the same – and remember that “shop small” refers to whom you buy from and not how much you buy!