Newark, NJ November 2024 – The New Jersey Small Business Development Centers (NJSBDC) is proud to launch the “Support Local, Grow New Jersey” campaign to celebrate Small Business Saturday and encourage New Jerseyans to support the small businesses that form the backbone of our state’s economy. This year’s Small Business Saturday falls on November 30, 2024, the Saturday following Thanksgiving, and marks a key day to infuse funds back into our local economies by supporting small businesses across New Jersey.

What is Small Business Saturday?

Small Business Saturday is an annual event founded in 2010 by American Express to support local businesses impacted by the economic downturn. Since then, the day has grown into a national tradition, officially recognized by local governments in all 50 states. Today, Small Business Saturday plays an important role in highlighting small businesses’ significant contributions to the economy and our communities.

NJSBDC’s “Support Local, Grow New Jersey” campaign encourages New Jersey residents to shop small, not only on November 30 but throughout the holiday season and year-round. By participating in Small Business Saturday, shoppers support the 33.2 million small businesses across the U.S., which account for 99% of all businesses and generate roughly 40% of the nation’s GDP. In 2023, U.S. Consumers spent an estimated $17 billion.

Mark Your Calendar: Key Dates for the Shop Small Season

NJSBDC encourages everyone to participate in the Shop Small Season and support local businesses on these upcoming dates:

• November 28: Thanksgiving – Show appreciation for small businesses that enhance our communities.
• November 29: Black Friday – Shop local deals and choose #ShopLocal when buying gifts.
• November 30: Small Business Saturday – Support New Jersey businesses by shopping small.
• December 2: Cyber Monday – Highlighting local online businesses.
• December 25: Christmas – Support causes that matter in our communities.

NJSBDC Resources to Support Small Businesses

To make the most of Small Business Saturday and the holiday season, NJSBDC offers resources to help small businesses enhance their visibility, boost sales, and grow community engagement:

• Watch the Webinar Recording: Holiday Marketing Mastery: Boost Your Small Business Sales This Season – CLICK HERE
• Explore America’s SBDC Discounts: Access exclusive discounts on essential business tools – CLICK HERE
• NJSBDC Small Business Resources Hub: Explore guides, templates, and resources – CLICK HERE
• Holiday Success Guide: Download our “Holiday Success Guide for Small Businesses in New Jersey” for practical holiday tips! – CLICK HERE
• Request No-Cost Small Business Counseling: Get personalized support from an NJSBDC advisor – CLICK HERE

Join the Campaign to Support Local

Through NJSBDC’s “Support Local, Grow New Jersey” campaign, we aim to drive New Jerseyans to shop small, keep dollars circulating in our local economy, and celebrate the hardworking business owners who make New Jersey a vibrant place to live and work. Follow the campaign using hashtags #SupportLocalNJ, #GrowNewJersey, and #ShopSmall on social media, and join us in making this holiday season one of community support and growth.

About NJSBDC

The New Jersey Small Business Development Center (NJSBDC) is the premier provider of comprehensive services and programs for small and mid-sized businesses in New Jersey. Through a network of 10 regional centers and 17 affiliate/satellite offices, the NJSBDC offers no-cost consulting, training, and resources, empowering entrepreneurs to start, grow, and prosper in the Garden State.

For more information about NJSBDC business initiatives and upcoming events, please contact press@njsbdc.com or visit https://njsbdc.com.