Small Business Saturday
Small Business Saturday: Supporting Local, Building Community
Small Business Saturday is an annual shopping holiday celebrated on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It was created in 2010 by American Express to encourage consumers to support small, locally-owned businesses during the holiday season. Positioned between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, this day highlights the importance of small businesses in driving local economies and fostering community connections.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: The Saturday after Thanksgiving each year. In 2025, it will fall on November 29.
- Tagged as: A day to “Shop Small” and support local businesses.
- What’s the hashtag?: #ShopSmall and #SmallBizSat.
- When was it founded?: November 27, 2010.
- Who founded it?: American Express.
History of Small Business Saturday
Small Business Saturday was launched during the Great Recession to help small businesses recover by encouraging consumers to shop locally. In its first year, American Express promoted the event through advertising and social media campaigns. By 2011, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution supporting the initiative, and it has since grown into a nationwide movement with participation from all 50 states.
Timeline
- 2010: American Express introduces Small Business Saturday.
- 2011: U.S. Senate unanimously supports the day.
- 2013: Over 1,400 “Neighborhood Champions” organize local events.
- 2015: The Small Business Administration (SBA) becomes a co-sponsor.
- 2020: Spending on Small Business Saturday reaches $19.8 billion.
- 2023: Consumers spend approximately $17 billion supporting small businesses.
Dates by Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | November 29 | Saturday |
| 2026 | November 28 | Saturday |
| 2027 | November 27 | Saturday |
| 2028 | November 25 | Saturday |
| 2029 | November 24 | Saturday |
| 2030 | November 30 | Saturday |
Observed
Small Business Saturday is widely observed across the United States by shoppers who visit local stores, restaurants, and online small businesses. Communities often host events like markets or shopping crawls to celebrate the day.
Fun Facts About Small Business Saturday
- Since its inception, American consumers have spent over $200 billion on Small Business Saturdays.
- For every dollar spent at a small business in the U.S., approximately $0.68 stays in the local economy.
- The event has inspired similar initiatives globally, including Small Business Saturday UK.
Quiz
- Who founded Small Business Saturday?
(Answer: American Express) - What year did the U.S. Senate pass a resolution supporting the day?
(Answer: 2011) - What are two official hashtags for Small Business Saturday?
(Answer: #ShopSmall and #SmallBizSat)
FAQs
- What is Small Business Saturday?
It’s a shopping holiday that encourages people to support local and small businesses during the holiday season. - Why shop locally on this day?
Shopping locally helps boost community economies, supports unique businesses, and fosters personal connections. - How can small businesses participate?
Businesses can offer special deals, host events, or collaborate with other local enterprises to attract customers.
Related
- Black Friday
- Cyber Monday
- Giving Tuesday
- Buy Nothing Day
- Green Monday