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Small Business Month

It's time to support local and celebrate Small Business Month - discover unique products, services, and experiences while helping your community thrive!

Saturday

1–31

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of May

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYBusiness

SUBCATEGORYEntrepreneurship

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate the backbone of our economy – small businesses – during Small Business Month in May! This month-long celebration was officially established in 1963 by President Kennedy, who recognized the important role that small businesses play in creating jobs and driving innovation. From mom-and-pop shops to online entrepreneurs, small businesses are a vital part of our communities and deserve to be celebrated. So let's support these hard-working individuals and their entrepreneurial spirit throughout the month of May and beyond!

TIMELINE

Small Business Month Timeline

Small Business Month Established

President Kennedy officially establishes Small Business Month to recognize and celebrate small businesses.

SBA Increases Support

The Small Business Administration (SBA) significantly expands its support for small businesses, offering more tools and resources.

Internet Revolutionizes Business

The rise of the internet opens up new opportunities for small businesses to reach a global market.

Small Business Saturday

American Express launches Small Business Saturday, an annual event encouraging consumers to shop at local businesses.

COVID-19 Pandemic Highlights Importance

The COVID-19 pandemic poses significant challenges for small businesses, but also highlights their importance to local economies and communities.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Small Business Month

Shop at local small businesses

Support your community by shopping at local small businesses. Not only will you find unique and handmade items, but you will also be supporting the local economy.

ATTEND

Attend a small business networking event

Take advantage of Small Business Month by attending a networking event for small business owners. You never know who you might meet and what connections you could make.

Share your favorite small businesses on social media

Spread the word about your favorite small businesses by sharing them on social media. Use hashtags like #SmallBusinessMonth and #ShopLocal to help promote and support these businesses.

WRITE

Write positive reviews for small businesses

Take a few minutes to write a positive review for a small business you love. This can go a long way in helping them attract new customers and continue to thrive.

ATTEND

Attend a small business workshop or seminar

Expand your knowledge and skills by attending a small business workshop or seminar. This is a great way to support small businesses while also learning valuable information to help your own business grow.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Small Business Month

Small businesses give back to the community

Many small businesses make it a priority to give back to their communities through partnerships with local charities and organizations. By supporting them, you are also contributing to these important causes and making a positive impact in your area.

Supporting small businesses strengthens the local economy

Small businesses are the backbone of local communities. By choosing to support them, you are helping to stimulate economic growth and create jobs in your own neighborhood. It's a win-win situation!

Small businesses offer unique and personalized products and services

Unlike big box stores, small businesses often have more niche products and services that can't be found anywhere else. Plus, they tend to provide a more personal touch and customer service experience, making shopping at small businesses a more enjoyable and memorable experience.

Related holidays

National Small Business Week

Support your local community and economy during National Small Business Week, a celebration of the heart and hustle of small businesses!

Small Business Saturday

Shop small, support local! Celebrate Small Business Saturday, a special day dedicated to boosting your local community's entrepreneurs.

Independent Retailer Month

Support your local businesses this Independent Retailer Month and discover unique products while helping your community thrive!

National Family Owned & Operated Businesses Day

Let's support and celebrate the heart of our communities on National Family Owned & Operated Businesses Day! Shop local and share the love.

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