Tomorrow marks the 12th annual Small Business Saturday — a day to celebrate and support small businesses in our communities. Founded by American Express in 2010 and officially cosponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) since 2011, Small Business Saturday takes place annually on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, encouraging consumers to #ShopSmall and support the nation’s 32 million independent businesses as part of their holiday shopping sprees.
This year, more than ever, supporting our small businesses is crucial. After over a year of setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many small businesses are still struggling. As businesses rebuild and pivot post-pandemic, holiday shoppers can help by choosing to shop small, both locally and virtually, rather than at a big name retailer.
According to the 2020 Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey commissioned by American Express, spending among U.S. consumers who shopped small on the holiday reached an estimated $19.8 billion. Additionally, the survey found that 97% of shoppers recognized the positive impacts of shopping small and 85% reported they have encouraged others to #ShopSmall as well.
How to support your local small businesses
Go On A Small Business Shopping Spree – Avid holiday shippers know all about Black Friday and many will make a day of it, going on a shopping spree with friends and family to get the best deals and discounts. Small businesses often offer similar sales on Small Business Saturday. Like Black Friday or Cyber Monday, you and your family can go on a local shopping spree to support the small businesses in your community. Consider the items you would like to purchase for the holidays and find small businesses that sell them instead of simply going to big name retail stores.
Spread the Word – Use social media and word of mouth to help promote the small businesses in your area. Many small businesses do not have the luxury to create large marketing campaigns and promotions the way big retailers can. Instead, most rely on word of mouth and local advertisement. By simply spreading the word about a small business you are helping them grow and thrive. After your local shopping spree, spend some time sharing your favorite locations with others and also consider leaving them an online review about your experience!
Keep it Up Year Round – Small Business Saturday is only one day out of the year, but it’s a good time to introduce yourself to the small businesses in your area. After the holiday, keep up your support year round. You don’t need to wait until next year to continue to #ShopSmall!
Latinas are Back in Business!
Want to continue supporting Latina small business owners and entrepreneurs? Join us for Latina In Business’s annual silent auction December 8th!
The free virtual event will include a LIVE Streaming session where female founders will share the struggles they faced during the pandemic and how they not only survived but also thrived!
The Silent Auction page includes donations from major sponsors and also, high-end female brands including Renovad Experiential Retreats, Fashion Designers of Latin America, Stuyvesant Champagne, Villakuyaya Gourmet Chocolates, and many more. The lowest bid starts at $15 but viewing of the Silent Auction Page is free to all who register.
By bidding, you will be helping support female founders while entering for a chance to win big prizes! See here to register now.
