Small Business Saturday 2025: How to Celebrate, Support, and Strengthen Local Shops
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Updated: June, 2026
Author: Andy LaPointe - Co-Founder of Traverse Bay Farms
Quick Summary
Small Business Saturday 2025 falls on November 29 and celebrates locally owned businesses like Traverse Bay Farms with community shopping, events, and promotions. This guide covers what the day is, how businesses can participate, how customers can show support, and why shopping small strengthens local economies.
At-a-Glance
- Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025 (the day after Black Friday)
- Founded: 2010 by American Express, co-sponsored by the SBA since 2011
- Purpose: Celebrate and support locally owned small businesses
- Hashtags: #ShopSmall and #SmallBusinessSaturday
- Traverse Bay Farms locations: Bellaire and Elk Rapids, Michigan
What Is Small Business Saturday?
Small Business Saturday is a nationwide shopping event held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It was launched by American Express in 2010 to help independent retailers thrive during the holiday season and is now co-sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
While Black Friday and Cyber Monday draw attention to big-box deals, Small Business Saturday brings the focus back to what truly matters: community connection, customer experience, and keeping dollars local. Today it is more than just a shopping day — it is a movement encouraging people to Shop Small and build stronger, more resilient communities.
Related reading: Small Business Saturday 2025: Everything You Need To Know To Celebrate | U.S. Small Business Administration
The Traverse Bay Farms Difference
Andy LaPointe, Co-Founder of Traverse Bay Farms
“We make shopping fun with our Bowl of Discounts promotion. Each store has two bowls, one for an instant discount and another for a future one. It is simple, fun, and keeps customers coming back both in-store and online.”
Traverse Bay Farms has won 38+ national food awards for its gourmet superfruit products and continues to support community initiatives across Michigan. From Bellaire to Elk Rapids, each retail store focuses on creating memorable shopping experiences and celebrating local craftsmanship.
How Small Businesses Can Participate
Any small business can join, whether retail, service, e-commerce, or restaurant. There is no sign-up required.
Ideas for Small Business Owners
- Offer limited-time deals. Provide a discount or free gift with purchase.
- Host events. Try tastings, workshops, or live demos.
- Collaborate with neighbors. Team up with nearby businesses for cross-promotions.
- Provide samples or snacks. A simple treat encourages shoppers to linger.
- Promote online. Use #ShopSmall and #SmallBusinessSaturday to reach more people.
How Customers Can Show Support
Ways to Support Small Businesses
- Shop or dine at local stores on November 29.
- Share your favorite small businesses on social media.
- Leave positive online reviews.
- Buy gift cards for family and friends.
Every dollar spent locally creates a ripple effect in your community, supporting jobs, schools, and local infrastructure.
Why Supporting Small Businesses Matters
The Local Impact of Shopping Small
- Keeps profits within the local economy.
- Offers personal, relationship-driven customer service.
- Reduces environmental impact by sourcing locally.
- Adds character, creativity, and diversity to communities.
At Traverse Bay Farms, we have seen how these values build lasting relationships. When people shop small, they are not just buying a product, they are investing in people.
Quick Stats
- Small Business Saturday started in 2010 by American Express.
- Co-sponsored by the SBA since 2011.
- Generates billions in local spending nationwide each year.
- Increases community retention and brand loyalty for participating businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why People Trust Traverse Bay Farms
- Recognized with 38+ National Awards for Flavor Excellence
- Family-Owned, Community-Focused Company in Northern Michigan
- Retail Locations in Bellaire and Elk Rapids, Michigan
- Delivering USA-Made Quality You Can Taste
Resources
Shop Small This November 29
Visit Traverse Bay Farms in Bellaire or Elk Rapids, or explore our award-winning cherry and superfruit products online.
Shop Traverse Bay Farms