Black Friday and Cyber Monday have long been dominating the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, marking the official start of the holiday shopping season. But there's another important day tucked between them that champions the heart of local communities: Small Business Saturday. It was created to encourage people to shop at small, local businesses, distinguishing it from the big-box retail focus of Black Friday and the e-commerce frenzy of Cyber Monday. Let's explore what makes this day so special and why it matters.

It Was Created By American Express

Small Business Saturday was founded by American Express in 2010. The initiative was launched in response to the Great Recession, which hit small businesses particularly hard. American Express wanted to create a movement that would drive sales and support to local retailers during the busy holiday shopping season.

It’s An Official National Day

Just one year after its creation, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed a resolution in support of Small Business Saturday. This official recognition helped solidify its place in the national consciousness and encouraged widespread participation from both consumers and business owners.

It Drives Billions In Spending

The impact of Small Business Saturday is substantial. Since its inception, consumers have reported spending an estimated total of $184 billion on this day. In 2024 alone, projected spending reached an impressive $22 billion, demonstrating the significant economic boost it provides to local communities.

Most Of The Money Stays Local

One of the most powerful reasons to shop small is that it keeps money circulating within your community. For every dollar spent at a small business, about 67 cents stays in the local economy. This is a stark contrast to spending at large corporations, where a much smaller fraction benefits the immediate area. This local reinvestment helps fund schools, public services, and infrastructure.

It Has Bipartisan Support

Small Business Saturday is a rare initiative that enjoys strong support from across the political spectrum. Politicians from both major parties have endorsed the day, recognizing the non-partisan importance of supporting entrepreneurship and local economies. This unity underscores the universal value of small businesses in America.

Social Media Plays A Key Role

From the beginning, social media was integral to the success of Small Business Saturday. American Express leveraged platforms like Facebook to build a community and spread the word. Using hashtags like #ShopSmall and #SmallBusinessSaturday, consumers and business owners share their finds, promotions, and experiences, creating a powerful online movement that drives offline action.

It’s Not Just For Retail

While retail shops are a major focus, Small Business Saturday extends to all types of local businesses. This includes restaurants, cafes, bakeries, salons, fitness studios, and local service providers. It's a day to support any local entrepreneur, whether you're buying a gift, grabbing a bite to eat, or booking a service.

Participation Has Grown Every Year

The movement has gained momentum every year since it started. More consumers are becoming aware of the day and making a conscious effort to participate. This growing awareness is a testament to the power of a simple, positive message: support the businesses that make your community special.

Resources Are Available For Business Owners

American Express provides free marketing materials and resources to help small businesses make the most of the day. This includes printable signage, social media graphics, and email templates. These tools help even the smallest shops with limited marketing budgets to run effective promotions and attract customers.

Quikstone Capital Solutions has officially reached its 20th anniversary, a moment that reflects two decades of dedication to supporting small businesses across the country. If you need cash for your business, contact us today. We have only one goal: to help your business succeed.