National Small Business Week
Celebrate the backbone of the American economy during National Small Business Week! Small businesses create jobs, drive innovation, and strengthen local communities. Support small businesses in your area, learn about entrepreneurship, and recognize the hardworking business owners who make our communities thrive.
About National Small Business Week
Celebrate the backbone of the American economy during National Small Business Week! Small businesses create jobs, drive innovation, and strengthen local communities. Support small businesses in your area, learn about entrepreneurship, and recognize the hardworking business owners who make our communities thrive.
History & origins
National Small Business Week is an annual U.S. observance led by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The SBA says it has celebrated the week for more than 60 years, and its 2026 observance runs May 3–9, 2026. SBA materials also note that the President of the United States has declared the week since 1963 to recognize small businesses as key job creators and innovators.
Why it matters
National Small Business Week matters because small businesses make up the vast majority of U.S. businesses and employ a large share of the private-sector workforce. The week also spotlights local entrepreneurship, helping communities support independent shops, service providers, and new business owners through purchases, networking, and mentorship.
How to celebrate
Shop at local small businesses instead of big chains. Leave positive reviews for small businesses you love. Share small business recommendations with friends. Attend small business events and networking opportunities. Learn about starting your own small business. Support small business owners on social media.
Facts
- Small businesses employ nearly half of all private sector workers
- There are over 33 million small businesses in the United States
- Small businesses create two-thirds of new jobs
- Small businesses are often more innovative than large corporations
- Supporting small businesses keeps money in local communities
Upcoming dates
- Tuesday, May 5, 2026
- Wednesday, May 5, 2027
- Friday, May 5, 2028
- Saturday, May 5, 2029
- Sunday, May 5, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is National Small Business Week in 2026?
National Small Business Week in 2026 is May 3–9, 2026. The SBA also holds a Virtual Summit on May 5–6, 2026.
What is National Small Business Week?
It is an annual U.S. observance that celebrates small businesses, entrepreneurs, and their economic impact. The SBA uses the week to recognize award winners and share resources for business owners.
Who started National Small Business Week?
The observance is led by the U.S. Small Business Administration, and SBA says it has been celebrated since 1963. The origin is tied to presidential declarations rather than a private founder.
How do you celebrate National Small Business Week?
You can celebrate by shopping locally, leaving positive reviews, and recommending small businesses to friends. Many people also join SBA events, networking sessions, or educational workshops during the week.
Is National Small Business Week official?
Yes, it is an official SBA observance in the United States. It is not a federal holiday, but it is formally recognized each year to highlight the role of small businesses in the economy.
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