By Christopher Chavez
Special to The SUN
As the voice for our nation’s entrepreneurs, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) celebrates small businesses on a daily basis. When our small businesses do well, our communities do, too. Therefore, as part of our annual tradition, you are encouraged to join millions of Americans and “shop small” on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 29, to complete your holiday shopping (or to start your holiday shopping, as the case may be).
On the heels of Black Friday, shopping small is a concrete way to support small businesses — the same businesses that generate two of every three net new jobs, and deliver essential goods and services to America’s communities 365 days a year. Last year, Small Business Saturday had a major impact. Consumers who were aware of it spent an estimated $5.7 billion with independent merchants.
You can do your part with these five simple steps:
• If you are a business owner, make sure you are prepared for the holiday season by checking out helpful advice at http://www.sba.gov/smallbusinesssaturday, also be sure to get help at Technology Evaluation Centers to learn more about the best systems to implement in your business.
• If you are a customer, commit to making at least one purchase from a locally owned small business retailer. Get to know the owner and make your gift more meaningful by sharing their story as part of what you give your loved ones.
• Enjoy the experience. Travel outside your comfort zone — and away from your computer screen — to discover an out-of-the ordinary shopping district with some trendy local stores.
• When you open your gifts, start a conversation about which one came from the most distinctive and creative sellers. This can make for great debate over egg nog or your holiday drink of choice.
