Did you know there are 31 million small businesses in the United States, which make up roughly 99% of all businesses in the country? In Nevada County, small businesses make up the largest tax revenue base.
People have come from all over the world and started out as small-scale business owners in the hope of living the American Dream. Many came to Nevada County during the Gold Rush hoping to get rich, but it was the businesses that formed to support the miners and mining companies that brought heart to Nevada County.
In 1953, the Federal Government created the Small Business Administration to help and counsel small business owners so they might prosper and grow into sustainable businesses in the future. In 1963, after a proclamation from President John F. Kennedy, the first National Small Business Week (NSBW) was celebrated to honor the top entrepreneurs in every state.
Small Business Week not only offers a platform to showcase small businesses and the entrepreneurs who dare to dream and create, but it is also a time we, as consumers, can conscientiously choose to patronize local establishments. Whether it is to indulge in a cup of artisanal coffee, browse handmade crafts, attend a performance or local event, or savor delicious menus at a local restaurant, every purchase becomes a vote of confidence in the dreams of small business owners.
As we honor the past, embrace the present, and envision the future, let’s continue to champion the dreams of small business owners whose hard work and dedication are largely responsible for strengthening the fabric of our county.
Be a part of the celebration! During this week use your social media platform to share your favorite small business. From heartfelt testimonials to vibrant snapshots of storefronts, the digital sphere can become one more way to spread appreciation and encourage our residents to buy local.
On April 30 and May 1, the Small Business Administration and SCORE will cohost the National Small Business Week Virtual Summit. Please see their website to find out how to register.
