Small businesses are crucial to Virginia’s economy, and their success relies on the support of individuals like us. Unlike chain stores and restaurants, small businesses are owned by our friends and neighbors. They create jobs, strengthen our communities, and contribute to local schools and charities. When you shop small, you aren’t just another shopper. Your satisfaction matters.
That’s why we need to make a point this season of supporting neighborhood shops and restaurants on Small Business Saturday.
The past few years have been difficult for local merchants. With inflation and the possibility that Congress might not renew an essential small business tax deduction, many are facing an uncertain future. Rising costs impact everything from supplies to payroll, putting significant pressure on small business owners. Without our support, some local businesses may be forced to close their doors, a loss that would affect not only them but the entire community.
However, we have the power to make a difference. Supporting local businesses on Small Business Saturday and throughout the holiday season helps sustain them. By choosing to shop small, we are investing in our community and the people who have invested so much of themselves into it.
Launched in 2010 as a response to Black Friday Black Friday has expanded into weeks of sales starting even before Halloween, Small Business Saturday remains anchored on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It’s an opportunity to show appreciation for the businesses that enrich our communities year-round.
Each small business is unique, offering products carefully selected by their owners, and an experience unmatched by larger retailers. You’ll find handcrafted gifts, locally sourced goods, and personalized recommendations that won’t be found on generic store shelves or websites.
Local restaurants also contribute distinct flavors and atmospheres that reflect their community’s character. These independent eateries do more than serve meals; they provide a space for connection. Whether it’s a family-owned diner, a food truck, or a steakhouse, local dining showcases the creativity and talent that make our communities special.
It’s encouraging that Small Business Saturday has become an annual tradition. Last year, about $17 billion was spent at small businesses on that day alone. The impact of shopping locally is significant: 67 cents of every dollar spent stays within the community, fostering job growth and economic stability.
This Thanksgiving weekend, make a point to shop and dine locally on Small Business Saturday. By supporting small businesses, we contribute to the well-being of our communities and help keep Virginia’s economy strong. Each purchase is a vote of confidence in local entrepreneurs and an investment in the future of our hometowns.
Julia Hammond is the Virginia Director of the National Federation of Independent Business.