U.S. consumers report spending around $17 billion at independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday. The nine-day SBS total (since 2010) reaches an estimated $103 billion.
More than 1,400 individuals and organizations sign up as “Neighborhood Champions” to rally their communities with events and activities on Small Business Saturday. The number grows to 7,500 by 2018.
The U.S. Senate unanimously passes a resolution in support of the day and officials in all 50 states participate. President Obama even adds a shout-out.
American Express — following the 2008 market crash — launches Small Business Saturday® to encourage people to “shop small” and bring more dollars to small entrepreneurs.
You can start by spreading the word early, working with a local cause, and setting special business hours for November 30 only.
American Express began SBS in 2010 as a way provide a jolt to local businesses still hurting from the Great Recession.
99.7% of all U.S. businesses are small businesses
The land of opportunity and entrepreneurs, 99.7% of all businesses in the U.S. are small businesses. When we think small businesses, our minds might automatically wander to the mom-and-pop shop on the corner of the block, but what about the ever-famous-ever-growing Silicon Valley? A large amount of small businesses within the United States are startups and tech-based, popping up in California, New York, and everywhere in between.
64% of new jobs created in the U.S. between 1993 and 2011 were from small businesses
A business can’t run without the people keeping it afloat, and with all of the new startups being created almost every day, it’s no wonder small businesses account for employing the most people in the United States! The inception of each new business creates a bunch of new jobs along with it, needing someone with the appropriate skills to fill the position. So when you support small businesses, you support the many people helping to keep it running.
Small businesses donate 250% more to non-profits and community causes
Small businesses have a personal connection to their community, as their companies are usually supported by the locals surrounding them. Donating to charity allows them to give back to the community that gives to them, as well as getting some philanthropy points and spreading awareness of their business’s existence and values.
Many shoppers opt for big box stores on Black Friday, knowing that there'll be sales on common holiday gifts. Small businesses sometimes offer many similar discounts — but without the marketing dollars to display the price cuts, they're often left out in the cold. If you were planning on purchasing a TV this holiday season, try calling your local electronics store to see if they're offering any discounts first.
Social media is a wonderful way to share our daily lives with friends, but sometimes, letting them know about a good deal from an e-commerce giant or a big box store can feel like advertising. With small businesses, it's different: Instead of contributing to some corporation's bottom line, you can rest easy knowing that you're helping a neighbor succeed.
Small Business Saturday only lasts for one day, but you're now acquainted with your local shops. Don't let another year pass before your next visit! For small businesses to succeed, they need our support through the year.
Unless you live in a major metropolitan area, chances are that the closest stores to your home are small businesses. Nearly wherever you are, they're close enough that you can just run up the block to reach them.
Local stores are more likely to make sure you leave happy, and might even make an effort to keep your favorite items in stock.
Unlike their big box brethren, each small business will be different from the next. Getting to know your local small businesses can be a great way to get to know your neighborhood and community!