By Jessica Miller
Many readers will recognize Small Business Saturday (Nov. 30, 2024 this year), the holiday shopping tradition that brings shoppers into neighborhood shops, restaurants, and other service providers as they find gifts. However, small businesses are worthy of recognition all year long. This is why the US Small Business Administration dedicates a week in late April/early May to recognize the accomplishments of small business owners across the USA. The week also celebrates the anniversary of the US Small Business Administration’s existence as well as the subsequent annual presidential declaration of Small Business Week. 2024 marks the 61stobservation week with this year’s dates being April 28—May 4.
The week promises another week of recognition, networking, and education. A free virtual summit will be hosted on the SBA website (sba.gov) from April 30—May 1 with workshops, networking, and other resources for new entrepreneurs, seasoned pros, and any business owner in between. Western New York Chambers of Commerce likewise have their own activities ready for local businesses.
Jamestown Community College and Olean Business Development Corp. will host a small business information event on May 1 from 4-5:30pm in The Hub (301 N Union St, Olean). Anyone with interest in starting a business is invited to attend and take advantage of the resources and information provided. Local and national programs supporting new entrepreneurs will be participants, as will Olean Business Development Corporation, a nonprofit that supports economic development. JCC’s Small Business Development Center serves the small business community of Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany counties with confidential guidance at no cost. Their program is supported by the Small Business Administration in cooperation with the State University of New York system.
Chautauqua County’s chamber of commerce is commemorating the week with discounted memberships during the annual membership drive. New members enjoy $45 off their first year’s membership when they sign up during Small Business Week. They will also be entered to win two tickets to the annual Chamber Annual Awards Banquet (valued at $125) or a free second year of membership at the Main Street One tier (valued at $195). Regardless of when a business joins, members enjoy unique developmental and cultural opportunities throughout the year. However, it is especially advantageous to join during the membership drive and enjoy these perks included for Small Business Week.
Residents and visitors to the region would also be wise to visit their favorite and new small businesses to see what they have planned for Small Business Week. There could be some added benefits to shopping locally during their special week!