Small Business Week
Small Business Week is a small but real reason to pause, notice, and celebrate — together if we can.
Why it matters
WELCOME TO SMALL BUSINESS WEEK
Join us as we celebrate the backbone of our economy during Small Business Week 2023.
THE STORY
Small Business Week, established in 1963, is observed in the last week of April each year. This week-long celebration recognizes the contributions of America’s small businesses, which are an integral part of the economy, providing jobs and fostering innovation. In 2022, small businesses accounted for 99.9% of all U.S. businesses, highlighting their importance in both local and national contexts.
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses employ nearly half of the private workforce in the country, showcasing their role as a crucial component in the labor market. Furthermore, small businesses have been shown to create 1.9 million jobs annually, emphasizing their importance for economic growth and stability, especially in the wake of challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Communities across the nation participate in Small Business Week with various events that include workshops, networking opportunities, and promotional campaigns aimed at encouraging consumers to shop local. The celebration inspires both community members and business owners to engage in dialogues about the importance of supporting local economies and the unique offerings that small businesses provide.
As we embrace Small Business Week, let us remember the countless entrepreneurs who take risks to fulfill their dreams and enhance our communities. From quirky boutiques to beloved diners, small businesses are often the heart and soul of our neighborhoods, reminding us of the value of personal connections and local craftsmanship.
WORTH KNOWING
Shop Local
Support your community by purchasing from local businesses.
Network
Attend local business events to meet entrepreneurs.
Learn
Join workshops to enhance your business skills.
Share Stories
Highlight your favorite local businesses online.
AROUND THE WORLD
DID YOU KNOW?!
Over 30 Million Strong
There are over 30 million small businesses in the United States.
Economic Backbone
Small businesses account for 99.9% of all U.S. businesses.
Job Creation
Small businesses create approximately 1.9 million jobs each year.
Community Impact
Small businesses are crucial for local economic development.
Celebration History
Small Business Week was first declared by President John F. Kennedy.
National Support
The SBA provides resources and support for small businesses.
Global Context
Many countries have similar observances to promote local entrepreneurship.
READ MORE
The E-Myth Revisited
by Michael E. Gerber
A must-read for aspiring entrepreneurs wanting to understand the fundamentals of running a small business.
Start Your Own Business
by The Staff of Entrepreneur Media
A comprehensive guide for anyone looking to launch their own small business.
Profit First
by Mike Michalowicz
A transformative approach to managing finances for small business owners.
Building a StoryBrand
by Donald Miller
Helps entrepreneurs clarify their message to better connect with customers.
PAIR IT WITH
Explore unique products at small retailers.
Dine at locally-owned eateries for authentic flavors.
Support local artists by purchasing handmade goods.
Attend local fairs to meet business owners.
Support Small Businesses
Celebrate Small Business Week by shopping local and supporting your community’s entrepreneurs. Share your favorite spots with friends.
How to celebrate
Small, doable ways to celebrate Small Business Week.
- Do one small thing that makes the day feel marked.
- Tell someone what you're celebrating and why.
- Share a post, a photo, or a memory connected to it.
- Make a tiny tradition — something you could do again next year.
- Let it be simple. Not every celebration has to be a production.
Celebration ideas by audience
For families
Do one small thing together that everyone will remember.
For kids
Turn it into a craft, a story, or a snack — meet them where they are.
For couples
Use the day as an excuse for a little intentional time together.
At the office
Acknowledge the day in the team chat or at a stand-up. Small, sincere, fast.
At school
Anchor a short lesson or activity around the day.
In your community
Share, volunteer, or donate to make the day mean something locally.
On your own
Celebrate quietly and completely. One person can still mark a day.