LANSING (WWJ) -- In an effort to encourage Michiganders to support local businesses this holiday season as well as year-round, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has declared Tuesday that Nov. 27 will be Small Business Saturday.
Whitmer said she wants to remind Michiganders that supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs "creates jobs, leads to more vibrant communities and builds a stronger economy for everyone."
“Small businesses are the backbones of our communities," said Whitmer. “Our small businesses demonstrated incredible resiliency throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and we should celebrate them and their invaluable contributions to our state by shopping local this holiday season."
She also stated that she will continue working to ensure that small businesses "have the resources they need to succeed."
Small businesses comprise more than 98% of Michigan businesses and employ half of Michigan workers, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.
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The U.S. SBA stated that for every $100 spent at a local business, roughly $68 stays in the local economy, allowing business and job growth.
In addition, according to the Michigan Retailers Association, if only one in 10 out-of-state purchases were switched to local stores, Michigan would gain $1.9 billion in increased economic activity, creating 14,000 new jobs.
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“While every day is a good day to shop small and buy nearby, we hope Michiganders will make a concentrated effort this Saturday and throughout the holiday season to shop at local retailers and businesses," said William J. Hallan, president and CEO of Michigan Retailers Association. "Not only will you find gifts on store shelves and avoid possible shipping delays by buying nearby, but you’ll be supporting the local businesses who make our communities great places to live and work."
In 2020, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation launched the “Support Local” campaign for Michiganders to easily find small businesses they can buy gifts from for the holiday season.
The Support Local landing page offers resources that help residents shop and eat local. To figure out what small businesses you want to shop at this Saturday, click HERE.
