5 Ways to Celebrate National Small Business Week

Each year National Small Business Week is celebrated in the first week of May. This year the celebration will be held from April 30 to May 6. The U.S. Small Business Association (SBA) leads the celebratory activities for the nation each year. Much of the emphasis is on the media and the small businesses themselves to celebrate the week. But shouldn’t communities have a role?

Yes, they should!

There are over 31.7 million small businesses in the United States. They are the roots of a stable economy for communities. Small businesses provide the potential for much of a community’s future economic growth. It is important for communities to show their support for small businesses during National Small Business Week.

Here are five ways your community can celebrate it:

1. Issue a Proclamation

Having your City Council issue a proclamation stating the City’s support for National Small Business Week is the easiest way for your community to show support. The City of Manchester, Missouri, has done just that.  Check out Manchester’s Proclamation for a basis to make your own.

2. Recognize Small Businesses in Your Community

Pick seven small businesses each year to recognize, one for each day of the week. Do a simple write-up on each business. It doesn’t have to be anything significant, just a few celebratory words. Then team it up with a picture of the business and make a post on your website or social media page each day in relation to those businesses.

3. Create an Appreciation Event

Why not hold a coffee and contacts for local small businesses? Providing some coffee and some pastries are a cheap way to show support to your small businesses. It’s also a good way for the various businesses in the community to strengthen relationships with each other. These relations may be mutually beneficial and can help grow both businesses.

4. Help Provide Basic Education

Maybe the closest community college will team up with your community to hold a one-day seminar on the root basics of starting a business. You can also look for online sources for additional education for local small business owners. There’s a good chance you’ll find something that is low-cost, or even free. Constant Contact often offers free basic marketing classes during Small Business Week. Once you’ve found a few, provide the information on your community’s webpage or social media outlet.

5. Where’s the Money?

Do your research and compile a list of grants and loans available to small businesses. You can start with the At Your Side Small Business Grant Program. Then have this information ready for startup businesses or businesses looking for additional help. Whether it is a simple flyer or a page on your community’s website, have this information ready and regularly updated.

There you have it. Five relatively simple ways to celebrate and support National Small Business Week!