By Sandra Guile
Better Business Bureau
Small businesses create two out of three new jobs in the United States each year, according to the Small Business Administration -— just one of many examples of the way small businesses have been positively impacting our economy for decades. It was in 1963 that the United States Administration set aside an entire week to recognize small businesses; since then, National Small Business Week has served as a reminder to every citizen that entrepreneurs and small business owners drive our market as surely as passion drives them.
Industry experts say this is an exciting time to start, work for, or own a small business. In fact, there are more than 30 million small businesses in America, employing 57 million employees. This boost could well be thanks to the increasing accessibility of assets for budding entrepreneurs to take advantage of. Today, there are many resources available to turn a dream doodled on a napkin into a brick-and mortar store or an online establishment.
Groups like the Small Business Association, the Service Corp of Retired Executives (SCORE), Ohio Small Business Development Centers, the City of Cincinnati Economic Development, or the Ohio One Stop Business Permit Center are there to support both new and established business owners in doing their best.
BBB also works to foster small businesses in the marketplace. By partnering with them, helping them grow, and expanding their network, BBB helps them become leaders in their local communities. BBB also hosts a variety of local events designed to empower small businesses and their employees. Learn more about BBB’s programs at bbb.org/cincinnati.
If you have an idea for a business just waiting for a spark, let your passion drive you: make this year’s National Small Business Week (starting May 5) the launch of your business plan.
Customers, take part by supporting local small businesses. Find a new spot you haven’t checked out, stop in, shop, and say “thank you” because they worked hard to be where they are today, and our community is all the better for it. If they’re BBB Accredited, give them a big high five -— they’ve certainly earned it.
Sandra Guile is the Public Relations Specialist for BBB. She promotes BBB’s message of marketplace ethics through public speaking engagements, presentations, media relations, press releases, web content, and other written materials. Your BBB is located at 1 East 4th Street Suite 600 Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 – to reach the office, call (513) 421-3015.
