What is National Small Business Week?

Summary: National Small Business Week is a time to uplift local businesses that fuel our economy. This guide shows how to celebrate, take part in events, and support your local businesses.

Think about the businesses that shape your daily life—the family-owned coffee shop that knows your order by heart, the local bookstore that hosts your favorite author talks, or the technicians who show up rain or shine. These aren’t just businesses—they’re the heartbeat of your community.

Small businesses make up 99.9% of all U.S. businesses and employ 45.9% of the American workforce, totaling about 59 million people, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.¹

That’s why National Small Business Week is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a chance to celebrate the dreamers, doers, and risk-takers who keep our local economies strong and our communities vibrant.

Whether you’re a business owner or a loyal customer, there are plenty of ways to get involved and show your support during National Small Business Week.

What Is National Small Business Week?

National Small Business Week is a week-long celebration launched by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to recognize the vital contributions that small businesses make to local communities and the U.S. economy.

Held annually in late April or early May, the National Small Business Week shines a spotlight on the hardworking entrepreneurs who fuel innovation and support millions of American families. It’s a time to celebrate their resilience and recognize their achievements.

Each year, the SBA hosts a series of events, including awards ceremonies, educational webinars, and networking opportunities, both in-person and online. These events equip small business owners with tools and community support to help them thrive.²

How to celebrate National Small Business Week?

There are several ways to take part in National Small Business Week activities. Here are a few:

Shop local and show your support

One of the simplest ways to celebrate is by being vocal for local. Skip the big-box stores and opt for neighborhood shops and restaurants instead. Shout out your favorite small businesses on social media and leave thoughtful reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp—these little actions go a long way in helping local businesses thrive.

Join events hosted by the SBA

Each year, the U.S. Small Business Administration hosts webinars, virtual conferences, and in-person events designed to educate and connect small business owners. Whether you wish to learn new things about business or just want to connect with like-minded people in your industry, there are plenty of free resources and opportunities to participate. To check out the latest upcoming events, you can visit the SBA events page.

Collaborate with fellow small businesses

National Small Business Week is the perfect time to team up. Consider running a joint promotion or giveaway with another business in your area or industry. You could also cross-promote on social media or bundle your services to create limited-time offers that draw more attention during the week.

Host your own customer appreciation event

Use this week to say thank you to your customers. You might host a casual open house, offer exclusive one-week discounts, or do a live Q&A on social media. The goal is to engage with your audience, give them a peek behind the scenes, and create a memorable experience.

National Small Business Week events to watch

Several authorities, such as the Small Business Administration, celebrate National Small Business Week by organizing events to recognize and promote small businesses. You can take part in one of the events mentioned below.

SBA awards ceremony

Each year, the SBA honors top entrepreneurs across the U.S., spotlighting innovation, leadership, and community impact.

Local chamber mixers

Many chambers of commerce host mixers to help local business owners network and form new partnerships.

Free business webinars

The SBA and partners like SCORE, which was originally acronym for Service Corps of Retired Executives, offer free webinars on marketing, financing, and growth strategies.

Pitch competitions and grants

Entrepreneurs can pitch their ideas for a chance to win funding and other valuable support.

Check out the SBA’s official National Small Business Week page for all upcoming events and opportunities.

Celebrate and support small businesses all year

National Small Business Week is a great reminder of how much small businesses do for our communities, but the support shouldn’t stop there. Every action counts, whether it’s shopping locally, showing online support, or developing your business.

At Mutual of Omaha, we know how hard you work to build something that lasts. That’s why we offer tools to help protect your business and plan for the future.

Explore education for business owners

Frequently asked questions

Q1. Who qualifies as a small business?

The SBA defines small businesses as those with fewer than 500 employees, but it also considers industry-specific criteria like annual revenue. For instance, a retail shop earning under $8 million per year or a manufacturing firm with 450 employees could be classified as small. You can check your eligibility by visiting the SBA’s size standards guide.

Q2. Are National Small Business Week events free to attend?

Yes, the SBA organizes several free virtual conferences and webinars during National Small Business Week. Some in-person events hosted by local organizations may charge a nominal fee, but there are typically free options available for business owners and supporters alike.

Q3. Can service-based businesses take part in the National Small Business Week?

Definitely. Whether you’re a freelance writer, graphic designer, dog walker, or cleaning service, you’re a vital part of the small business community. You can take part by offering promotions, sharing testimonials, co-hosting online events, or engaging in local business activities during the week.

Sources

1. S. Small Business Administration, “Frequently Asked Questions About Small Business,” July 23, 2024
2. ACA International, “SBA Hosts Awards Ceremony and Education During National Small Business Week,” 2024

366979_0625