Thanksgiving is already upon us here in the US and we are headed straight into the holiday season. What does that mean for you? For me, it means spending time with friends and family. Most of all, it reminds me to take stock of all that I am grateful for and how I love to give. Cliche? Maybe. Truth? 100%. 

One way to give is right around the corner this week and stands out as a beacon for supporting local economies. No, not Black Friday deals on Amazon! I’m talking about good, down-home local business support. This Saturday is Small Business Saturday. 

This annual event celebrates and promotes the significance of small business in our communities. As consumers, we often underestimate the profound impact of choosing to shop locally. And let’s face it, we’ve become pretty spoiled with bigger companies and their delivery services. Here are just a few reminders of why getting out of your pajama pants and shopping locally can do:

1. Foster local economic growth – You hear me say that small business is the backbone of the economy because it’s true! When you shop locally, you’re directly contributing to the economic health of your community. Unlike large corporations, small businesses are more likely to circulate money within the local economy, creating a multiplier effect. This happens when dollars spent at local businesses stay in the community, which in turn supports other local businesses and services. 
2. Job creation – Small businesses provide jobs! According to the US Small Business Administration, they are responsible for creating two out of every three new jobs in the country. When you shop local, you’re sustaining local employment which enhances local economic stability but also enhances a sense of community pride and engagement. 
3. Unique products and services – One of the charms of small businesses is their ability to offer unique and specialized products or services. Unlike larger retailers that often sell mass-produced items, small businesses frequently provide handcrafted, locally sourced, or customized offerings. By choosing to shop on Small Business Saturday, consumers not only access distinctive products but also contribute to the preservation of local culture and creativity.
4. Community identity and character – Small businesses are integral to shaping the character and identity of a community. They contribute to the distinctiveness of a neighborhood, offering a sense of place and belonging. When consumers support small businesses, they help maintain the unique character of their community. This sense of identity can be a powerful economic driver, attracting tourism and encouraging local pride.
5. Stimulating innovation and entrepreneurship – Small businesses are often hotbeds of innovation and entrepreneurship. They are agile, able to adapt quickly to changing market demands and introduce new ideas. By supporting small businesses, consumers indirectly foster an environment of innovation and entrepreneurship, which can lead to economic growth in unexpected ways. Small Business Saturday, therefore, becomes a catalyst for fostering a culture of creativity and ingenuity within local communities.

Small Business Saturday is not just a marketing ploy or a feel-good initiative but a crucial driver of economic prosperity. Let’s remember the impact our choices can have and make a conscious effort to support the small businesses that make our neighborhoods thrive. After all, when small businesses succeed, we all do. 

Wishing you health and wealth always!

-Mike