Small Business Saturday is fast approaching, and there’s no better time to celebrate the small businesses that are the lifeblood of New Jersey’s economy. As part of our “Support Local, Grow New Jersey” campaign, the New Jersey Small Business Development Centers (NJSBDC) invites you to shop small, support local, and help strengthen our communities this holiday season.

1. Why Supporting Local Businesses Matters

Did you know that 99.6% of all businesses in New Jersey are small businesses? These 952,029 enterprises provide jobs to 1.9 million people, making up nearly 48.8% of the state’s workforce. Despite being the 47th smallest state, New Jersey ranks 11th in the nation for its number of small businesses—a true testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of our communities.

When you shop small, you’re doing more than purchasing a product—you’re helping families thrive, funding essential services, and creating opportunities for your neighbors.

Your Impact by Shopping Small (2023 Highlights):

• U.S. consumers spent $17 billion on Small Business Saturday last year.
• An estimated 68 cents of every dollar spent at a small business stays in the local economy.
• Small businesses contribute 40% to the national GDP, underscoring their critical role in economic growth.

2. How You Can Support Local Businesses this Small Business Saturday

Supporting local businesses on Small Business Saturday (November 30, 2024) is easy and impactful. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:

• 1. Shop Locally: Skip the big-box stores and visit your neighborhood shops for unique gifts and personal service.
  2. Dine Small: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant or café.
  3. Share the Love: Use hashtags like #SupportLocalNJ, #GrowNewJersey, and #ShopSmall to spread the word on social media and encourage others to join.
  4. Give Feedback: Leave positive reviews online to help small businesses gain visibility.

By choosing local, you invest in New Jersey’s future and support the hardworking entrepreneurs who drive our state’s economy.

3. How to Get Your Small Business Ready for this Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday isn’t just a celebration for small businesses—it’s an opportunity to attract new customers and build long-term relationships.

How Small Businesses Can Maximize the Day:

• 1. Offer Exclusive Deals: Create special discounts, bundles, or giveaways to entice shoppers.
  2. Boost Visibility Online: Use hashtags and promote your participation on social media.
  3. Enhance the Shopping Experience: Decorate your storefront, stock up on inventory, and ensure your team is ready to provide exceptional service.
  4. Collaborate Locally: Partner with other small businesses for cross-promotions and joint events to amplify your reach.
  5. Get Listed: Join the American Express Shop Small Map to attract more customers.

By participating, small businesses can tap into the national movement to highlight their unique products and services while strengthening customer loyalty. 

➡️ Download NJSBDC’s Shop Small Guide to get your small business ready for Small Business Saturday at www.njsbdc.com/shopsmallguide

4. Resources to Help Your Small Business Thrive

At NJSBDC, we’re committed to empowering small businesses with the tools and guidance they need to succeed. Whether you’re preparing for Small Business Saturday or looking to grow, here are some resources to support you:

• 1. NJSBDC Shop Small Guide for Small Businesses in New Jersey – Download Guide
  2. Empower Your Business: Small Business Saturday Success in NJ – Watch Now
  3. Holiday Marketing Mastery: Boost Your Small Business Sales This Season – Watch Now
  4. ️ America’s SBDC Discounts for Business Tools – Explore Now
  5. NJSBDC Small Business Resources Hub – Visit Now
  6. No-Cost Small Business Counseling – Request Counseling

Let’s Make This Small Business Saturday Unforgettable!

Together, we can make this holiday season impactful for small businesses and communities across New Jersey. Whether you’re shopping, dining, or sharing, every action counts.

Join the movement and help us “Support Local, Grow New Jersey.” Follow us on social media, use the hashtags #SupportLocalNJ, #GrowNewJersey, and #ShopSmall, and celebrate the businesses that make our state a vibrant place to live and work.