Small Business Week: Celebrating and Recognizing America's Entrepreneurs

When you think of American business, innovation and prosperity, there are few better examples than Apple. Currently worth billions, Apple is recognized worldwide as a leader in technology and innovation. However, if the story of Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak’s startup that grew into the legendary company it is today weren’t so well known, there’d be little evidence that Apple started as a couple of curious kids toying around with circuit boards and computer chips in a suburban home. This week marks National Small Business Week, an observance created by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to put a spotlight on the country’s small businesses that bring diversity, culture and innovation to the communities they serve. As sign makers, we partner with a number of small local businesses that, while varying in style, market and product, share a common characteristic: They all care deeply about their customers. For those small business owners who may not realize the impact their company has on the community, or for the entrepreneur who needs a little push to start their dream business, let us share a few facts with you.

How Small Businesses Make an Impact Beyond Small Business Week

There are many reasons to celebrate small businesses. According to the SBA:

• U.S. small businesses have increased by 49% since 1982
• Small businesses have added 8 million jobs to the workforce since 1990
• 40% of all retail sales come from franchised small businesses
• Since the 1970s, 66% of all new jobs and 55% of all jobs have been provided by small businesses
• Small businesses have provided 54% of all U.S. sales
• Small businesses occupy 30-50% of all commercial space in America

The numbers alone demonstrate just how important small businesses are to the economy. But to take it a step further, small businesses also play major roles in the wellbeing of local communities. While big corporations and major restaurant chains have their places in today’s society, many consumers still flock to “mom-and-pop” shops for something that the bigger names can rarely provide: a personal touch, a unique flair and an attention to detail that only come from living in the communities they serve. From the pizzeria that serves pies made with local cheese to the longstanding hardware store whose owner knows each and every patron by name, there is something special about what a small business brings to the table. National Small Business Week reminds us all just how important every single small business is for our economy and the communities they serve. If your small business is looking for a way to get the word out, we would love to find the signage solution that is just right for your company’s needs. From car top signs and car door magnets to banners and sidewalk signs, HTH Inc. has the solutions to give your business the spotlight long after National Small Business Week comes to a close.