Op-Ed; Shop Small on Small Business Saturday, Angela R. Burton

Texas Border Business

- Advertisement -

By Angela R. Burton, district director, SBA’s Lower Rio Grande Valley District

Small Business Saturday 2021 is on November 27th, marking the 12th annual event. Last year, thousands of communities across the nation supported the day and helped small businesses remain resilient through the pandemic.

And, while the holidays may look slightly different this year, now more than ever, small businesses need support as they continue to navigate, retool, and pivot from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

- Advertisement -

Here’s how you can help those brave entrepreneurs weather the pandemic, grow the local economy, provide jobs, and support local initiatives and organizations;

1. Shopping small and making your holiday purchases at a small business – #SmallBiz is the lifeblood of our communities; they create jobs and boost the economy.
   
2. Participate in Small Business Saturday on social media, using the hashtag #ShopSmall to show your support. If you find a unique small business or restaurant, don’t be shy; share it on social media so others can enjoy it too.
   
3. While you support your local small businesses for Small Business Saturday, dine small, too — visit your locally owned eateries and independent restaurants.
   
4. Encourage friends and family to do the same by shopping at a small business in-person or online.

Small businesses are the engine of our national economy. Today, there are 32.5 million small businesses in the United States. About half of all-American workers are either employed by a small business or own a small business. These businesses create two out of three net new private-sector jobs in America, helping spur economic growth in communities across our country and adding strength to our nation.

About the Author:
Angela R. Burton serves as the SBA’s Lower Rio Grande Valley District Director and oversees the agency’s programs and services in 14 counties to include 180,000 small business firms.  The district consists of a diverse landscape encompassing international ports of entry, vacation destinations, deep seaports, rural commu

- Advertisement -