Small Business Saturday is more than just a day to shop—it’s a chance to support the people and businesses that give our towns character and keep communities thriving.
Unlike big-box stores or online giants, small businesses are often owned by people who live nearby and care deeply about their neighborhoods.
Every purchase you make at a local shop directly supports the community you live in.
In fact, roughly 70% of every dollar spent at a small business stays local, funding jobs, suppliers, taxes, and community projects.
Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy.
They create jobs, support families, and help keep neighborhoods alive with personality and charm.
In downtown Urbana, business owners say that even small purchases make a huge difference.
The following business owners spoke on the importance of shopping local:
- Stephanie Peterson – A Mustard Seed, the Boutique
- Deborah Mattan – Saks Thrift Avenue
- Amy Forrest – In Good Taste Market
- Tina Knotts – Let’s Eat Cake
Small Business Saturday is especially important during the holiday season, when many local shops rely on these weeks for a significant portion of their annual revenue.
Beyond sales, the day draws new customers to shops that might otherwise be overlooked, giving business owners the opportunity to showcase unique products, personalized service, and local creativity.
Shopping local also strengthens the community in ways that go beyond economics.
Local businesses sponsor school events, support charities, and provide spaces where neighbors can connect.
They give towns their personality and character, offering variety and experiences you won’t find in chain stores.
Every time you choose a local shop over a national retailer, you’re helping preserve the culture and vibrancy of your community.
Even small gestures matter. Buying a gift, picking up a coffee, or grabbing a gift card from a neighborhood store helps keep money circulating locally.
It keeps jobs in town, supports other local businesses, and helps fund programs that make your community better.
Small Business Saturday is a reminder that shopping small is not just about convenience—it’s about making an investment in your own hometown.
This holiday season, consider exploring your local streets, discovering hidden gems, and supporting the businesses that make your town unique.
By choosing to shop local, you’re not only getting something special for yourself or a loved one—you’re helping ensure that downtowns like Urbana remain vibrant, creative, and full of life for years to come.
