Governor Hochul Encourages New Yorkers To Shop Locally On Small Business Saturday

Supporting Local Businesses This Saturday and Year-Round Strengthens Communities and Boosts Local Economies

Watch the New York State Department of Labor Small Business Saturday Video Here 

Governor Kathy Hochul today along with Empire State Development, Department of Labor, Taxation and Finance, and Agriculture and Markets encouraged all New Yorkers to shop safely while supporting their local small businesses on Small Business Saturday, tomorrow, November 27, 2021. New York's small businesses generate millions of jobs throughout the state and by choosing to shop locally this Saturday, and every day, New Yorkers are investing in their neighborhoods, strengthening their communities, and keeping tax dollars within New York State. 

"I helped my mom start a flower shop and know just how much hard work it takes to get a small business off the ground. As small businesses recover from the economic toll of the pandemic, many are counting on sales generated during the holiday season to make their profits and stay afloat," Governor Hochul said. "So let's all lend a hand by shopping locally at small businesses in our communities on Small Business Saturday and throughout the holiday season."  

Empire State Development Acting Commissioner and President & CEO-designate Hope Knight said, "Every time you head to your neighborhood coffee shop or restaurant or visit that corner store and pick up something that catches your eye, you are supporting a local small business.  Small businesses are the fabric of our communities and when they thrive, we all thrive. ESD has continued to offer support to our small and micro businesses during the pandemic through many programs, but we cannot do it alone—the support of everyday customers is integral, and we encourage New Yorkers to shop your local small businesses this Saturday, and every day." 

State Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, "Small businesses are the heartbeat of New York's economy. By supporting them this Small Business Saturday, we are supporting jobs, strengthening communities, and maintaining economic vitality across New York State, which is critical now more than ever as we continue to navigate our way through the COVID-19 pandemic. I encourage New Yorkers to join me in showing love to our local small businesses year-round." 

Department of Taxation and Finance Acting Commissioner Amanda Hiller said, "Small businesses were hit especially hard at the onset of the pandemic. To help them recover and thrive, we encourage all New Yorkers to shop small, not only this weekend but throughout the year.  We also urge small businesses to explore the tax credits and incentives New York offers to businesses in local communities across the state." 

State Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, "We are proud to support our agricultural industry through our various marketing, promotion, and grant programs.  New York has an incredible farming and small food business community that work hard to bring food to the tables of New Yorkers year-round, and to craft unique and special items that make perfect holiday gifts.  I encourage everyone to support their local farmer and food and beverage producer and shop local this year."  

Read the full press release here.