Supporting Local This Season: How to Make the Most of Small Business Saturday

The holiday season is a crucial time for small businesses. One of the best opportunities to shine is Small Business Saturday, which takes place the Saturday after Thanksgiving. This year it will take place on November 29, 2025. This national holiday was created to celebrate and support local entrepreneurs. It encourages shoppers to invest in their communities by choosing small, local businesses over big-box retailers or online giants.

But beyond a single day of sales, Small Business Saturday can spark lasting connections between local business owners, customers, and the broader community. By working together, small businesses can create a shopping experience that’s both meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for small business owners to take advantage of this incredible holiday and make their business one that keeps people coming back all year long.

1. Collaborate, Don’t Compete

One of the biggest advantages small businesses have is their sense of community. Partnering with other local entrepreneurs can help everyone reach a wider audience.

• Team up with neighboring businesses for joint promotions, prize drawings, or “shop hop” events.

• Cross-promote each other on social media: share posts, tag partners, and highlight local favorites.

• Consider creating a shared discount card or “passport” that encourages customers to visit multiple local spots in one day.

These kinds of collaborations not only attract more foot traffic but also show customers the strength and unity of the local business community.

2. Tell Your Story

Customers love supporting small businesses because they value the personal stories behind them. Use Small Business Saturday to share yours:

• Post photos or short videos introducing your team, your products, or your mission.

• Display your story in-store how you started, what inspires you, or how you give back to the community.

• Encourage customers to tag your business on social media using hashtags like #ShopSmall or #ShopLocalTexas.

When people feel connected to your story, they’re more likely to become loyal customers beyond the holiday season.

3. Make It an Experience

Turn Small Business Saturday into a local event worth remembering. A little creativity goes a long way:

• Offer samples, holiday treats, or mini-workshops.

• Invite local musicians, artists, or food vendors to join in.

• Host giveaways or customer appreciation activities.

Creating a festive, welcoming atmosphere encourages shoppers to linger longer and spend more.

4. Partner with Your Community

Local chambers of commerce, main street programs, and the Tarleton SBDC are all great partners for event support and promotion.

• Ask about local directories, media coverage, or collaborative advertising opportunities.

• Share your event with community calendars or social media pages.

• Encourage civic leaders and residents to spread the word about supporting small businesses.

When your community comes together, everyone benefits: stronger relationships, greater visibility, and a thriving local economy.

5. Keep the Momentum Going

Small Business Saturday may be one day, but the spirit of “shopping small” can last all year. After the event:

• Follow up with new customers: send thank-you emails, offer a loyalty discount, or invite them to join your mailing list.

• Reflect on what worked well and what you could improve next year.

• Stay active in local business networks and keep collaborating with your fellow entrepreneurs.

Don't Forget: The Tarleton SBDC Is Here to Help!

The Tarleton State University Small Business Development Center is here to support local entrepreneurs with free business advising, marketing assistance, and strategic planning, not just during the holidays, but all year long. Together, we can strengthen our communities, one small business at a time.