Celebrate Small Business Saturday in Steuben County: Support the Heart of Our Community

Small businesses are more than places to shop, they are the essence of a community. These local gems bring character, warmth, and authenticity to Steuben County, creating spaces where people connect, share stories, and build memories. While large retailers might draw people into town, small businesses make them feel like they belong. They’re why many choose to return repeatedly, enjoying the familiar faces and personalized service that set these local businesses apart.

This Small Business Saturday, the Steuben County Economic Development Corporation encourages everyone in Steuben County to show appreciation for the small businesses that enrich our lives, not only during the holidays but throughout the entire year. By shopping locally, you’re investing in your community, supporting jobs, and helping create a thriving, vibrant Steuben County.

Why Shopping Small Matters

Launched by American Express in 2010 and backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, Small Business Saturday has become a beloved tradition and a crucial part of the holiday season for small businesses nationwide. Beyond boosting sales, this day allows communities to unite and celebrate the unique shops, restaurants, and services that strengthen local economies. When you spend at a small business, your dollars stay local, supporting everything from job creation to community initiatives.

Small businesses drive the economy, responsible for over 60 percent of new jobs created in the past 25 years. By shopping small in Steuben County, you’re contributing to a ripple effect of positive impacts, helping to keep our local economy resilient and our community distinctive.

The Impact of Your Support

Data shows that Small Business Saturday shoppers often become loyal patrons. According to the American Express 2023 Consumer Insights Survey, shoppers on Small Business Saturday often become regular customers, building meaningful, long-term connections with local businesses.

• 61% of shoppers said they found a small business or independently owned restaurant on Small Business Saturday where they will likely become regulars.
• 86% shopped in-store, and 53% of consumers reported shopping online at small businesses rather than large retailers (34%) today.
• 41% of people enjoyed shopping at small businesses with family, friends, or neighbors, making the day a meaningful community event.

These statistics highlight just how much small businesses rely on community support to thrive, especially during the holiday season.

How to Support Small Businesses in Steuben County

Supporting local businesses is simple. Start by visiting a local café, dining at a family-owned restaurant, or picking up a unique gift from a nearby shop. Take it further by leaving a positive review, sharing your experience on social media, or encouraging friends to shop locally. Each small action has a significant impact, helping our community’s businesses thrive.

Join us this November 30th for Small Business Saturday and experience the character, warmth, and vibrancy that small businesses bring to Steuben County. Let’s keep our community’s heartbeat strong by shopping locally and supporting small businesses!

Start exploring local options today, search for small businesses in Steuben County and discover their fantastic variety!

Steuben County Economic Development Corporation

The Steuben County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing economic development in Steuben County and its municipalities. Our mission is to foster economic prosperity through collaboration, creating more employment opportunities, and improving the quality of life for residents. We offer comprehensive services, including business retention and expansion, business attraction, talent attraction and development, and community development and growth.

Visit www.steubenedc.com to learn more about how we can support your business and contribute to the economic success of Steuben County.