Supporting Local Economies: Reflecting on Small Business Saturday & Giving Tuesday
November 27, 2023
As the echoes of Small Business Saturday still resonate within our community and with the spirit of giving in full swing, we reflect on the impact of these annual events in our vibrant town of Jamestown. Small Business Saturday, an initiative founded by American Express in 2010, continues to serve as a beacon, illuminating the significance of supporting local enterprises during the holiday season. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has cosponsored the celebration since 2011, and it has grown into a movement supporting small businesses.
Small Business Saturday: A Tradition of Local Support
In the wake of last year's festivities, the 2022 Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey conducted by American Express revealed an astounding achievement. The event propelled approximately $17.9 billion in sales, reaffirming its pivotal role in bolstering the prosperity of small businesses nationwide. Moreover, the survey highlighted a crucial statistic — for every dollar spent at a local small business, an estimated $0.68 remains within the community, fortifying our local economy.
The Economic Impact: Small Businesses as Pillars of Our Community
The vitality of these small-scale enterprises extends beyond mere monetary transactions. From 1995 to 2021, small businesses emerged as the engines of job creation, contributing to an impressive 63 percent of new job opportunities. Their presence fuels economic growth and nurtures the fabric of our community, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and resilience.
Yet, as the ripples of Small Business Saturday subside, another significant day looms on the horizon — Giving Tuesday. Launched in 2012, this global day of philanthropy and goodwill falls on November 28th. Jamestown residents and others will unite collectively to give back to our community and beyond.
Giving Back Beyond Shopping: Uniting for Giving Tuesday
Giving Tuesday has evolved into a testament of generosity and collaboration, channeling support towards nonprofits and charitable causes worldwide. Last year, GivingTuesday raised $3.1 billion in one day for charitable causes nationwide. The nonprofit sector is the third largest employer in the U.S., providing approximately 12.3 million jobs according to the most recent data from 2016.
The impact of charitable contributions transcends mere numbers. The nonprofit sector, which represents the heart of many community initiatives, is the third largest employer in the U.S., providing approximately 12.3 million jobs according to recent data from 2016. These organizations serve as support pillars, addressing critical needs, fostering inclusivity, and catalyzing positive societal change.
The Power of Generosity: Amplifying Impact Through Charitable Giving
As we look back on the success of Small Business Saturday and eagerly anticipate the forthcoming Giving Tuesday, let us carry forward the spirit of support, generosity, and community. Whether through patronizing local businesses or contributing to charitable causes, our actions echo a commitment to nurturing a vibrant and resilient Jamestown.
Together, let us continue to build a community where every act of support, every purchase from a local store, and every charitable donation ignites a ripple effect of positivity, prosperity, and compassion. As we stand united, our collective efforts will continue to weave a tapestry of resilience and hope for a brighter future in Jamestown and beyond.
Support Small Businesses and Nonprofits in Jamestown
Our Jamestown/Stutsman Development Corporation team is proud of the awe-inspiring small businesses and nonprofits that add character to our community. We welcome community members to join us in shopping small and helping local nonprofits on these special days and throughout the year!
