April 30- May 6, 2017 marks National Small Business Week as observed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA kicked off the week by recognizing small business owners in Washington, D.C. but you can celebrate in your neighborhood too. Here are a few ideas:
5 Easy Ways to Celebrate Small Business
Patronize a Small Business
Large businesses are great but this week is about recognizing the efforts of the small business person. Take some time out of your schedule to ditch your regular chain purchase and buy from a small business.
Write a Review
Write a glowing social media review for your favorite small business.
Help Someone Find Work
If you see a “help wanted” sign on a small business, think of who you know who might be looking. Make that connection/introduction so they can both benefit.
Explain to Your Children or a School Group About the Importance of Small Business
Helping the next generation appreciate the importance of small business is a great way to ensure there will still be small businesses around when they are your age. A good way to help with this is by encouraging your children to flex their entrepreneurial muscle and open a lemonade stand or organize a bake sale.
Volunteer for a Small Business
Volunteering for a small business may sound weird but you’d be surprised the little things they need help with that aren’t large enough to be someone’s job. This could involve writing something on social media for them, moving a few boxes, or helping them distribute information on an upcoming sale.
If there’s a small business you love, take the time to recognize them this week. Without your support, they won’t be around. Small business has a lot of competition these days and it’s not all local. Show them some support this week and all weeks. #SmallBiz365.
For next year, consider instituting a local currency program to help small businesses get the attention they deserve.
