In the Know with Osceola Chamber-Main Street: Let’s Get Ready to Celebrate Local

Since 1963, during the month of May, the Small Business Administration has recognized entrepreneurs and small businesses for their innovations and outstanding service. Small businesses are the lifeblood of the economy and create about two of every three new jobs.

Of every $100 spent in a local business, $68-$70 stays in the community. Local business owners support school fundraisers, county fairs, non-profits, families in need, churches, and much more. Entrepreneurs volunteer in the community, attend community events; they are friends and neighbors.

Small business owners work long hours and wear several hats: Accountant, marketer, public relations, human resources, housekeeping, and the list goes on. “They bring so much life to our community and are a part of what makes Clarke County so great,“ stated Executive Director, Ashleigh Eckels.

May is traditionally ‘Small Business Month,’ and the SBA posts many activities on the SBA website. Because of the covid-19 pandemic, however, clicking on www.sba.gov/national-small-business-week reveals the message, “Small Business Week has been postponed, new dates will be announced soon.”

Eckels, however, believes now is definitely the time to shine a light on local small businesses, “Our small businesses make our community prosper and we want to celebrate them for making the community we all call home a place where we can shop, dine and explore.” Now is the time to give back the support that they have all given us.

May 3-9 Let's Celebrate “Clarke County Small Business Week”

Please join in the celebration- here’s the plan:

“Blue Sunday”- grab some blue ribbon, or blue material and tie a ribbon around a tree or structure in your yard to show support. (Dark Blue is the color for small business- but it also shows support for our health care workers.)

“Make it Monday”- Make a sign of support and share it on Facebook- get the kids involved!

“#GivingTuesday”- Day of Global Action for Giving and Unity in Response to COVID-19. #GivingTuesdayNow Brings Together Individuals, Nonprofits, Communities, Small Businesses, Brands and more. Learn More here: https://www.givingtuesday.org/

“Let’s Write Wednesday”- send a note of support to your favorite businesses.

“Take Out Thursday”- You know what to do!

“Gift Card Friday”- buy a gift card from a local business.  

“Try Something New Saturday”- explore the great options in Clarke County options from the safety of home. Check out Facebook pages and websites of local businesses-post your finds on Facebook.

Throughout the week, watch for ‘3,2,1’ interviews with business owners on our Facebook and website pages. We will also announce the winner of the “Osceola Dream Business,” open to Clarke High School Seniors. For more details and an application, visit our Facebook page or osceolachamber.com. 

Please join Osceola Chamber-Main Street in celebrating Clarke County’s Small Businesses.