Why Small Business Week Is Big for Communities

President Kennedy originally signed the proclamation that introduced National Small Business Week (NSBW) in 1963 to bring the country together in celebration of the vital role that small businesses play in our communities—and FCB Texas is proud to continue to honor that tradition. While this year’s NSBW took place from May 5 – 11, you can still learn why you should support your local businesses not just one week a year, but every day!

They’re America’s Backbone

There are 28.8 million small businesses in the United States, employing 56.8 million employees. In fact, small businesses account for 99.7 percent of all U.S. businesses!

They Make Texas Great

There are 2.4 million small businesses in this great state alone. Supporting your local businesses means supporting your friends, family, and neighbors—and that’s what Texas is all about.

They Can Make You and Your Family Healthier

The local food movement offers you access to chemical-free fruits and vegetables, fresh, free-range eggs, grass-fed meat, and raw milk, all of which has a positive effect on your health and environmental sustainability.

They Strengthen Our Economy

The more you spend at local businesses, the more gets reinvested in our community. One study found that only $43 of every $100 spent at chain retailers stays in the community, compared to $68 of that same $100 spent at local businesses.

They Provide Superior Service

How many times have you been left on hold for too long or felt invisible to the employees at big chain businesses? Small business owners—and their employees—feel more connected to the community and typically go above and beyond to keep their customers coming back.

So, besides Small Business Week, how else can you support your local businesses?

• Resist the allure of Black Friday sales and shop local
• Share your good experiences with everyone
• Follow and share their content on social media
• Leave positive online reviews
• Partner with them for community events

FCB Texas is proud to serve our communities in West Texas, North Texas, the Texas Panhandle, and The Texas Hill Country—and even prouder to support the small businesses that serve us. Join us next National Small Business Week—and every day in between—and help the local businesses that help us thrive.