The City of Salem, Virginia is proclaiming November 25th, 2023 as Small Business Saturday in recognition of the important role that local small businesses play in the local economy and community. Small businesses account for 99.7% of firms with paid employees and are responsible for creating 62.7% of net new jobs since 1995. Additionally, every dollar spent at small businesses creates an additional 48 cents in local business activity due to employees and local businesses purchasing local goods and services.

In addition to their economic benefits, small businesses also contribute to the character and charm of communities. In fact, 72% of consumers reported that Small Business Saturday 2022 made them want to shop and dine at small, independently-owned retailers and restaurants all year long.

The City of Salem supports these local businesses by encouraging residents to Shop Small on Small Business Saturday and throughout the year. This not only helps create jobs and boost the local economy but also preserves the unique character of our communities.

Advocacy groups, public and private organizations across the country have endorsed this day as a way to promote small business ownership and encourage consumers to support their local entrepreneurs. By choosing to Shop Small on Small Business Saturday, residents can help make a difference in their community while also enjoying unique products, exceptional service, and personalized attention from locally-owned merchants.