Celebrate Small Business Week: May 4 – 10, 2025
Small Business Week is just around the corner! From May 4th through the 10th, we're joining the US Small Business Administration in honoring over 50 years of dedication, innovation, and impact from America's small business owners and entrepreneurs. This week is a chance to spotlight the heartbeat of our local economies—the small businesses that bring our communities to life.
Why Should You Shop Small?
You might be wondering, What makes shopping small so special? Here’s why supporting local businesses is one of the best ways to give back to your community:
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They Support Our Community: Small businesses are often the backbone of a thriving community, creating spaces where people connect, work, and grow together.
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They Provide Local Jobs: When you shop small, you're helping provide local employment and opportunities for your neighbors.
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Their Tax Dollars Stay Local: When you spend at a small business, your money stays right here, contributing to local development and growth.
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They Offer Personal Touches: You’ll experience customer service that’s thoughtful, personal, and often tailored to your needs.
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They Draw Tourists In: Unique and diverse small businesses attract visitors, adding to the charm and appeal of our town.
While shopping small can be a year-round commitment, here are five impactful ways to celebrate your favorite local businesses during #NSBW and beyond:
1. Shop Small, Support Big Change
In a world where online shopping often reigns supreme, don’t forget about the local gems right at your doorstep. Whether it’s a handcrafted item or a local necessity, take a moment to visit a shop near you. Buy a few things locally this week and help keep money circulating within our community!
2. Dine Local, Savor More Than Just a Meal
Council Bluffs boasts a vibrant selection of locally-owned restaurants—each one offering a unique flavor of our community. Whether it’s a cozy coffee shop or a family-run diner, enjoy a meal out this week and savor the delicious contributions these eateries make to our town. Explore our Taste page for dining inspiration!
3. Shout Out on Social Media
Had a fantastic experience shopping or dining locally? Share it with your friends and followers! A simple post, tag, or story can create waves of recognition for a small business. Let’s use social media to show our appreciation and introduce even more people to these local treasures.
4. Leave a Heartfelt Review
Your words matter! Small businesses thrive on feedback from their customers. According to Podium (2021), nearly 90% of customers rely on reviews before trying something new. Take a moment to leave a glowing review on Google, Yelp, or Facebook to show your love and help others discover the amazing businesses in your area.
5. Send a Thank You Note to Your Favorite Business Owner
Running a small business is no easy feat. If you have a business you’re especially fond of, show your appreciation with a handwritten note or a thoughtful gesture. A little "thank you" can go a long way in brightening someone’s day and reminding them of how much their hard work is valued.
Let’s Make Every Week Small Business Week!
Small businesses are more than just places to shop—they’re places where dreams are realized, families are supported, and communities are built. So this Small Business Week, let’s not just celebrate them for a week—let’s make supporting local businesses a year-round priority.
When we shop small, we’re helping to shape a future where our communities continue to thrive. Thank you for being part of the movement to uplift our local entrepreneurs, one purchase at a time!
Need More Inspiration?
If you're ready to support small businesses but aren't sure where to start, we’ve got you covered! Check out our guide to some of Council Bluffs’ most unique retail spots for one-of-a-kind finds. And if delicious food and festive vibes are more your style, don’t miss our latest blog highlighting the best local places to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with bold flavors and great drinks!
