As November begins, so does the busiest shopping season of the year. We’re all familiar with Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but let’s not overlook Small Business Saturday—a day dedicated to supporting the businesses that keep our communities vibrant and unique. Falling between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday invites us to “shop small” and make an impact close to home by supporting the shops, services, and makers in our own backyards.
The importance of shopping local in today’s economy
Running a small business is challenging in any economy, but rural and local businesses face unique pressures. They compete not only with the convenience of online shopping but also with the often lower prices offered by big-box stores. While saving a few dollars might be tempting, supporting local businesses offers value that goes beyond the bottom line. When comparing prices, consider not just the sticker price but also the true cost of driving out of town—gas, wear and tear on your vehicle, and the extra time spent. Supporting local shops helps keep those businesses in your area, which ultimately benefits everyone in the community.
Local shops offer jobs, character, and a sense of shared community; and each of us has a role to play in keeping our local economies thriving. Small Business Saturday is the perfect opportunity to start or reinforce that commitment.
Understanding the ripple effect of shopping local
When we spend locally, we keep more money circulating within our community. This process, known as the multiplier effect, means that dollars spent at a local business are reinvested in other local businesses, services, and wages, creating a positive cycle of economic growth. For example, when you buy from a local boutique or café, your money helps support their employees, who, in turn, spend their earnings at other nearby businesses. This ongoing cycle keeps our towns and neighborhoods financially resilient and can contribute to community improvements and local projects.
Shopping locally also means contributing to the community's tax base. Many purchases include sales tax that goes directly into local infrastructure projects, public services, and small business loan programs. When we choose to shop in nearby cities or online, that tax revenue goes elsewhere, benefiting communities that aren’t our own. Small Business Saturday is a powerful reminder to consider where we want our dollars to make the biggest impact—right at home.
Supporting small businesses beyond Main Street
When we think of local businesses, we might envision the shops lining Main Street, but small businesses come in all forms. Many local entrepreneurs run online or home-based businesses, selling unique, handcrafted, or custom items through their websites or social media platforms. While these businesses may not have a physical storefront, they are just as much a part of our local economy. Following and engaging with local businesses on social media in the weeks leading up to Small Business Saturday is a great way to stay connected and discover the variety of products they offer.
As you plan your holiday shopping, keep an eye out for local promotions or pop-up events. Many small businesses offer special deals for Small Business Saturday, but even if they don’t, you’ll often find one-of-a-kind items made with care. Supporting these businesses means giving a gift that’s unique and meaningful—and supporting an entrepreneur’s dream.
Investing in community spirit
When you choose to shop small, you’re supporting more than a local business; you’re helping to build a community. Local businesses are often the same ones supporting our children’s sports teams, sponsoring events, and contributing to charity drives. Their logos are the ones on the back of the team jerseys, on event banners, and in school programs. Big-box stores may offer discounts, but they’re less likely to be involved in our community on a personal level.
Shopping local is one way to give back to those who give so much to the community. Small Business Saturday is an invitation to recognize the value these businesses bring to our lives and our neighborhoods. They’re not just stores; they’re neighbors, community members, and often friends.
Make an impact this Small Business Saturday
This holiday season, let’s think beyond the convenience of online shopping or the allure of Black Friday deals. Choosing to shop small is choosing to invest in our communities and make a difference. Whether it’s a coffee shop, a local artisan, or a bookstore, these businesses rely on our support to keep their doors open and our communities vibrant.
This Small Business Saturday, let’s show up for the businesses that make our towns feel like home. Support local businesses not just for the unique products and services they offer, but for the positive impact they have on our neighborhoods, our economy, and our sense of community.
