As the Mayor of Salem, Virginia, I am proud to proclaim November 25, 2023 as Small Business Saturday in our city. We recognize and celebrate the contributions of local small businesses to our economy and community.
Small businesses are a crucial part of our local economy, representing 99.7% of firms with paid employees in the United States and responsible for 62.7% of net new jobs created since 1995. They also employ 46.4% of employees in the private sector nationwide. Additionally, every dollar spent at small businesses creates an additional 48 cents in local business activity due to employees and other businesses purchasing goods and services locally.
The impact of supporting small businesses extends beyond just economic benefits – it helps preserve communities by creating jobs and fostering relationships between neighbors and friends. In fact, sixty-eight cents out of every dollar spent at a small business stays in the local community, making a significant impact on our local economies.
Our city supports these efforts by advocating for local businesses that create jobs, boost the economy, and preserve communities. We join advocacy groups and organizations across the country who have endorsed Small Business Saturday as a day to encourage consumers to shop at independently-owned retailers and restaurants throughout the year.
I urge all residents of Salem – and communities across the country – to support small businesses on Small Business Saturday this November 25th by shopping locally whenever possible throughout the year. Together we can help build stronger communities while promoting sustainable economic growth.