This Christmas, we’re thrilled to launch our 12 Days of Giftmas Christmas Guide, celebrating our amazing borrowers and the unique gifts they offer. From December 14th through Christmas Day, we’ll reveal a new category each day, featuring one or multiple businesses—from fitness and beauty to winter sweets, dining, coffee shops, and more. It’s the perfect way to discover local treasures, support small businesses, and connect with your community. Follow us on Facebook to join the fun and catch daily reveals.
Shopping Small
The U.S. is home to 34.7 million small businesses, making up 99.9% of all firms. Of these, 6.2 million have employees, while 28.4 million operate without paid staff, demonstrating the entrepreneurial spirit powering our economy. Shopping small not only supports local businesses, but it also strengthens the community, creates jobs, and keeps your neighborhood thriving. Every dollar spent at a small business helps entrepreneurs grow their operations while reflecting the diversity and innovation of our economy.
Strengthens the community: Small businesses thrive because of the people around them. Surveys show 95% of small business owners say community support keeps them thriving, and 93% feel they can count on their neighbors. Supporting local businesses brings people together: 73% of consumers say shopping small unites their community, while 70% feel more connected to the people and places around them.
Creates jobs: Small businesses are major engines of employment, generating 61.1% of all new net jobs since 1995—over 20 million positions added to the workforce. Even after setbacks like the 2020 economic downturn, small businesses quickly rebounded, restoring lost jobs and continuing to grow.
Keeps your neighborhood thriving: Every purchase circulates wealth locally. On average, 67 cents of every dollar spent at small businesses stays in the community, and each dollar generates another 50 cents in local economic activity. By shopping small this holiday season, you help sustain local services, support neighborhood businesses, and empower entrepreneurs who make your community vibrant.