Consumers encouraged to ‘shop small’ this holiday season

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans

Isabella Casillas Guzman, administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, is encouraging consumers to “shop small” this holiday season and on Small Business Saturday, which is Nov. 26.

“As our economy continues to stabilize, it’s more important than ever that consumers shop and dine small during the holiday shopping season,” said Ms. Guzman in a news release. “We continue to see positive impacts and opportunities for our small business owners through President Biden’s economic agenda, and Small Business Saturday is another chance for us to further strengthen America’s entrepreneurs with our local and online spending and promotion.”

Small Business Saturday, founded by American Express, is a day dedicated to supporting the diverse range of local businesses that create jobs, help boost the economy and enhance neighborhoods.

According to American Express, the projected total reported spending among U.S. consumers who shopped at independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday last year hit a record high with an estimated $23.3 billion. The SBA has cosponsored Small Business Saturday since 2011.

The SBA continues to expand and retool resources to support small business owners. For more information on SBA’s programs and services, visit www.sba.gov. To learn more about Small Business Saturday, visit www.sba.gov/saturday.