National Small Business Week

For more than 50 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration has celebrated National Small Business Week (NSBW), which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. This year is one unlike the half-century that has come before.

We are facing unique challenges together. However, American small businesses continue to play a central role in building a strong country, prepared for any obstacles in the future.

More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create nearly two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year. As part of NSBW, the SBA takes the opportunity to highlight the impact of outstanding entrepreneurs, small business owners, and others who support entrepreneurship from all 50 states, Washington, D.C. and U.S. territories.

5 Ways to Celebrate National Small Business Week

Do you celebrate National Small Business Week at your business?

If not, this year is a great time to start!

As a tradition spanning over 50 years, National Small Business Week gives you the opportunity to celebrate small businesses and the contributions that they make to local communities and the national economy.

This year, Small Business Week runs from May 5th – May 11th.

How can your business get involved?

Whether you own a small business, work for one, or you just love supporting them, there are plenty of ways you can show your support and take part in this tradition.

Here are five ways you can take part in Small Business Week this year:

1. Share your story

You started your business for a reason — probably the same reason that motivates you to get out of bed in the morning, roll up your sleeves, and get the job done.

Don’t keep your story a secret! Use your unique point of view as a way to stand out from the competition and get closer to your customers.

This Small Business Week, take a moment to remind your customers and supporters why you do what you do.

Join other small businesses and share your inspiration using the hashtag, #MySmallBizWhy.

With just a sentence or two — and maybe a quick photo — you can pull back the curtain and show your customers the heart of your business.

2. Say thank you to the people who keep your business going

Who makes your business possible?

Maybe you’ve got a top-notch staff or die-hard customer base. Maybe you have a mentor you can always call when you hit a lull. Take a moment to step away from the day-to-day frenzy and show your appreciation.

A face to face thank you is always great. But you can also write thank you cards, send an email to your supporters, or post a thank you on social media.
If you’re comfortable in front of a camera, think about how you can get your message across in a short thank you video.

3. Invest in education

Throughout Small Business Week, the SBA is hosting free webinars to help you learn new skills and increase your impact.

If you prefer learning in person, Constant Contact has planned a variety of free marketing seminars and one-on–one coaching sessions with marketing experts during the month of May.

Whether you want to learn about email marketing, social media, or search engine optimization, you can find a live seminar, led by a marketing expert.

4. Partner with another small business

Are you close to other small businesses in your area? Strengthen your impact and reach a larger audience by joining forces this Small Business Week.

For example, a jewelry store could increase its exposure by setting up a display at a local spa and providing 10 percent off coupons to all spa customers.

Look to collaborate with businesses that reach a similar audience, so your products and services complement nicely.

5. Get the word out

When you own a small business, the weeks fly by.  Don’t miss out on Small Business Week just because you’re having a busy week.

Get the word out to your supporters by sending an email announcing Small Business Week and encouraging your customers to support you. You can add a coupon to your email as a special thank you to your customers.

Many email services allow you to schedule your email in advance so you can set everything up ahead of time.

Once your email has sent, post it to your active social media channels to increase your reach. Soon, your customers will be celebrating along with you.

Happy National Small Business Week!