The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) National Small Business Week recognizes the contributions of small business owners. More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, creating about two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year. According to data from U.S. SBA, over 97% of all businesses in New Hampshire are small businesses with under 20 employees.

According to the Small Business Economic Impact Study by American Express, for every dollar spent at a small business, 67 cents will stay in the local community, 44 of those cents goes to the small business owner and wages and benefits to their employees. Ultimately, that dollar spent at the small business creates an additional 50 cents of local economic impact.

Celebrate Small Business Week by supporting small businesses in your community. Shop at small retail stores, eat at locally owned restaurants and cafes, spend time and resources on main street, visit farmers markets, share on social media and post positive reviews.