American Express Small Business Saturday: Shop Small This Holiday Season

American Express’s Small Business Saturday is a great opportunity to support small businesses in your community, and this year, it's being held on **November 25th**. The initiative, which began in 2010, has become a beloved tradition among both small businesses and consumers. It is a day dedicated to helping small businesses thrive, particularly during the busy holiday season.

American Express Small Business Saturday: A Tradition of Small Business Support

Every year, Small Business Saturday takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, strategically positioned between the major shopping events of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The aim is to draw attention to the vital role small businesses play in our communities, often getting overshadowed by online deals and larger retailers.

• Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy. They create jobs, support local communities, and contribute significantly to the overall GDP.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) joined as a sponsor in 2011, recognizing the importance of supporting small businesses across the country.

Why Shop Small?

The importance of supporting small businesses year-round cannot be overstated. These businesses contribute significantly to the economic well-being of their communities and offer a unique shopping experience that often cannot be found in big box stores.

• Shopping at small businesses supports local artisans, entrepreneurs, and job creators.
• Small businesses provide personalized customer service and unique product offerings.
• Supporting small businesses helps to revitalize local communities and neighborhoods.

American Express: A Champion of Small Businesses

American Express is a leading advocate for small businesses and has played a key role in promoting Small Business Saturday since its inception. The company recognizes the vital role small businesses play in our economy and has been committed to providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed.

• American Express offers free promotional materials for small businesses to help them participate in Small Business Saturday.
• American Express's 2022 Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey revealed that 72% of shoppers are encouraged to shop and dine at small businesses year-round due to this promotion.
• Small Business Saturday has driven an estimated $17.9 billion in spending based on consumer reports. This highlights the significant economic impact of the initiative.

The U.S. Small Business Administration: Defining Small Businesses

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the sponsor of Small Business Saturday 2023, provides a clear definition of what constitutes a small business. This definition is crucial for determining eligibility for SBA programs and federal contracting opportunities. The SBA sets size standards based on the number of employees or average annual receipts, varying by industry.

• You can find a detailed table of size standards on the SBA website, providing guidelines for different industries.
• These standards ensure fair competition and provide opportunities for small businesses to thrive.
• By supporting small businesses, we contribute to a more resilient and diverse economy.

Shop Small and Make a Difference This Holiday Season

This holiday season, make a conscious effort to support small businesses in your community. Shopping small is not just about finding unique gifts and supporting local entrepreneurs; it's also about making a positive impact on your community and the economy as a whole. Consider visiting local boutiques, restaurants, and independent shops during the holidays and beyond. Remember, every purchase you make at a small business helps to create jobs, boost local economies, and build stronger communities. Join American Express in celebrating Small Business Saturday on November 25th and make a commitment to shop small throughout the year.