The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recognizes the second week in May as “National Small Business Week.” Since 1963, Small Business Week has served as a celebration of entrepreneurs and a way to highlight the importance small businesses play in our economy.
Small businesses generate more than 50 percent of the national Gross Domestic Product in the United States. They currently employ 60 million employees and are responsible for two of every three new jobs created, a number that has been consistent for more than 25 years.
Small Business Week kicked off May 5 and the Stoneham Chamber of Commerce will take the opportunity celebrate our local business members who make Stoneham a better place to live, work and play through their support of the local economy, the community and one another.
Below are a few of the many reasons to support Stoneham businesses:
Supporting local business is investing in your community
When you shop at privately-owned stores, the money you spend is immediately reinvested in our community through the taxes paid. Our local businesses provide jobs for residents, and a thriving business community increases property values and civic pride throughout our community.
Support of community organizations and local events
Chamber members make free community wide events like Town Day, the Halloween Stroll, Tree Lighting on the Common, the Health & Wellness Expo and the Summer Concert Series possible. Their charitable giving can be seen everywhere throughout town, whether through sponsoring a youth sports team, donating goods and services for a fundraiser or volunteering to assist a community clean-up. Their presence is felt well beyond the local economy and their contributions are a direct reflection of who we are as a town.
Preservation of Stoneham’s character
Retail shops, specialty stores and restaurants are large drivers in the preservation of a community’s character distinguish our town from others. Shopping at local businesses preserves the character of our community.
As we acknowledge National Small Business Week, we would like to thank the many businesses that create a seamless web of support for Stoneham residents.
About the Stoneham Chamber of Commerce
In our 35th year, the Stoneham Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization that works to provide resources, programs, tools and services to support its business members, as well as foster community involvement and civic pride. Learn more at www.stonehamchamber.org.