The Saturday after Thanksgiving has grown into one of the most meaningful shopping days of the year. Small Business Saturday began in 2010 as a way to shine a spotlight on local shops and makers. Today, it is a chance for us to slow down, walk our own streets, and support the independent businesses that help our community feel like home.

The impact of those choices adds up quickly. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses account for nearly half of all U.S. private-sector employees and represent over 99 percent of all American businesses. When we choose a neighborhood shop over a big-box cart, we are helping real people keep doors open, staff paid, and local traditions alive.

For many independent retailers, the holiday season can make or break the year. A strong Small Business Saturday helps them head into the new year with stability and confidence. American Express reports that for every dollar spent at a small business, about 68 cents stays within the local community.

Whether it is a neighborhood boutique, a maker at a weekend market, or a small online shop based nearby, our spending supports families, artisans, and entrepreneurs who are working hard to bring something special to the community.

You do not have to overhaul your entire holiday list to make a difference. A few intentional choices can have a big local impact.

• Plan a walk through your town’s main street or neighborhood shopping area
• Look for local artisans or makers offering handcrafted gifts or decor
• Pick a small restaurant, coffee shop, or bakery for your weekend treat
• Share your favorite local businesses on social media and tag them
• Buy gift cards for future visits so your support continues after the holidays

Even shifting a portion of your holiday spending toward small businesses can help them cover rent, payroll, supplies, and future growth.

Small Business Saturday is more than a sale or a shopping event. It is a reminder that our choices as neighbors shape the kind of community we live in. When we choose to spend a little more of our time and budget locally, we help keep our streets active, our storefronts unique, and our local economy more resilient.

This season, consider which purchases you can keep close to home. The gifts you buy might be small, but the support behind them is anything but.

Sources

American Express — Shop Small Program

U.S. Small Business Administration — Small Business Saturday

U.S. Small Business Administration — Small business growth and statistics