Supporting Local Businesses Saturday, November 26, and Year-Round Strengthens Communities and Boosts Local Economies
Watch Department of Labor Small Business Saturday PSA Here
Empire State Development Suite of Small Business Programs Available Here
Governor Kathy Hochul today alongside Empire State Development, and the Departments of Labor, Taxation and Finance, and Agriculture and Markets encouraged all New Yorkers to support their local small businesses on "Small Business Saturday" November 26, 2022. Small businesses make up 98 percent of New York State's economy and generate millions of jobs throughout the Empire State, and by choosing to shop locally Saturday, and every day, New Yorkers are investing in their neighborhoods, strengthening their communities, and keeping tax dollars within New York State.
"Small Business Saturday is an opportunity for all New Yorkers to play a role in strengthening our economy, creating vibrant neighborhoods, and keeping communities connected," Governor Hochul said. "New York's small businesses are the core of our economy, and because this community was among the hardest hit at the height of the pandemic, my administration has been squarely focused on its recovery. I encourage New Yorkers to take advantage of all that these businesses have to offer and shop locally this Saturday."
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Every time you visit your favorite restaurant or gift shop and buy something new, 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 through many programs during the pandemic and beyond 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."
New York State Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, "Small businesses are the cornerstones of communities. By shopping at these businesses, we are supporting families, jobs, and New York State's diverse economy. I encourage New Yorkers to shop small and shop often this Small Business Saturday and throughout the entire holiday season."
Department of Taxation and Finance Acting Commissioner Amanda Hiller said, "Small businesses were hit hard during the pandemic and are only now beginning to recover. To aid that process, the state has a full array of business tax credits and incentives. I urge small business owners to explore these credits and incentives on our website. I also encourage New Yorkers to shop small this weekend and throughout the year."
State Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, "New York is home to more than 33,000 family farms that produce world-class food and beverages products. Our hardworking farmers take great pride in feeding their neighbors and fellow New Yorkers, and are truly vital to our state. This holiday season, I encourage you to give thanks for the delicious meals and thoughtful gifts you share with family and shop local to support your community's producers."
Small Business Saturday celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of small business owners and invites shoppers to visit local stores at the beginning of the busy holiday shopping season. The small business sector is a major contributor to the foundation of New York's economy, employing more than 40 percent of New York's private sector workforce. Today, New York State has more than 549,000 small business firms, employing more than three million people.