By Yolanda Garcia Olivarez

South Central Regional Administration

U.S. Small Business Administration

 As the voice for our nation’s entrepreneurs, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) celebrates small businesses on a daily basis.  When our small businesses do well, our communities do too. Therefore, as part of our annual tradition, I encourage you to join millions of Americans and “shop small” on Small Business Saturday®, Nov. 28. Small businesses represent the dynamic demographics of the United States, encompassing everyone from your mom and pop shops to your neighborhood’s recently opened specialty boutique or traditional manufacturer.

On the heels of Black Friday, shopping small is a concrete way to support small businesses – the same businesses that generate two of every three net new jobs, and deliver essential goods and services to America’s communities 365 days a year. Shopping small packs a big punch to the U.S. economy. Last year, there were 88 million consumers “Shopping Small” on Saturday. 77% of consumers said Small Business Saturday® inspires them to “Shop Small” through the year and not just for the holidays. In addition, 66% of consumers state the main reason they support small businesses is because of their contributions to the community.

You can do your part with these six simple steps:

1. If you’re a business owner, make sure you’re prepared for the holiday season by checking out helpful advice at http://www.sba.gov/smallbusinesssaturday.
2. If you’re a customer, commit to making at least one purchase from a locally-owned small business retailer.  Get to know the owner, and make your gift more meaningful by sharing their story as part of what you give your loved ones.
3. Also, after a day of shopping I encourage you to continue to support small businesses by dining small at your favorite small business restaurant.

4. Enjoy the experience.  Travel outside your comfort zone — and away from your computer screen — to discover an out-of-the ordinary shopping district with some trendy local stores.
5. Take part in Small Business Saturday® on social media, using the hashtag #SmallBizSat, #ShopSmall and #DineSmall to amplify your support.  If you find a great small business retailer with unique products, Tweet or Facebook your find so others can enjoy it too.
6. When you open your gifts, start a conversation about which one came from the most distinctive and creative sellers.  This can make for great debate over egg nog or your holiday drink of choice.

I know I’ll be shopping small with my friends and family on Saturday, Nov. 28.  I encourage you to do the same – and remember that “shop small” refers to whom you buy from, and not how much you buy!

Yolanda Garcia Olivarez serves as the SBA’s South Central Region VI Administrator and is based in Dallas/Fort Worth.  She oversees the agency’s programs and services in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.