Small Business Saturday is Nov. 24
It’s that time of year again! Holiday traditions, food, and of course, great deals at your favorite stores. Before venturing out this Friday, think about Saturday instead. This year Small Business Saturday falls on Nov. 24, which is the one day nestled between Black Friday and Cyber Monday that’s dedicated to support your local small businesses.
Prior to becoming an instructor in the Entrepreneurship/Small Business program at Dakota County Technical College, Christine Pigsley owned Fashions Plus, a women’s clothing store in downtown Webster City, Iowa. She pointed out some great reasons to shop Small Business Saturday this year:
- Purchasing local from an independent small business owner has immediate impact on your community. Not only do most proprietors live in the area where they work, they spend their money locally as well.
- Small business owners are the ones who step forward in your community and give to school fundraisers, volunteer for community and economic development projects, and support local causes and needs. They give their time and money because they care about your communities and understand the needs first hand.
- Local retailers make things special and unique. They often purchase goods from other small businesses and artisans, so their selection is unique from what you would find at big box stores.
- Local retailers go the extra mile for their customers. In many cases, they not only have a box for your gift, but they will wrap it for you at little or no charge.
- Local retailers make time for their customers because they value long-term relationships with their customers. If you want to speak with an expert, he or she is behind the counter, not headquartered halfway around the globe.
Last year, over 100 million people shopped at independently-owned small businesses on Small Business Saturday. Because of their support, small businesses have been able to employ half of all private sector employees, generate 65 percent of new jobs, and produce 13 times more patents per employee than large patenting firms (Small Business Administration).
What will you be doing Saturday, Nov. 24? “I say, stay home after the turkey, sleep in late on Friday morning, and participate in Small Business Saturday,” Pigsley advises. “Christmas is about giving and there is no better way to give back to your community than to support your local, independent business owners.”
What can you do?
Consumers:
- Check out your local small business participants
- Spread the word
- Rally your community
- Shop with American Express and get $25 back when you spend $25 or more
Small Business Owners:
- Promote your small business
- Read Small Business Saturday success stories
- Rally your community
For more information about DCTC’s Entrepreneurship/Small Business program, contact:
- Christine Pigsley
Entrepreneurship/Small Business Instructor
651-423-8231 - Bob Voss
Entrepreneurship/Small Business Instructor
651-423-8356
