Press Release

ROCHESTER — Fulton County Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce Small Business Season, Oct. 31 to Dec. 31.

New this year, the chamber is launching a program to support small business. Throughout the holiday shopping season, the chamber is encouraging consumers to “Think Small” and earmark at least part of their holiday spending in support of local small business.

Fulton County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jillian Smith shared, “Small business is the backbone of our economy. 64% of our new jobs in the U.S. come from small business. When people spend their dollars locally, more money stays local. On average, for every $100 sent locally, $68 of that stays here.”

“By implementing Small Business Season, we hope to encourage people to patronize all sorts of small businesses this holiday. In addition to our wonderful retail options, there are dining establishments, personal service providers, even local artisans that need our support. Small Business Season is a way to help our residents develop a better appreciation for how their spending affects our area and quality of life.”

In addition to increased marketing efforts, the chamber is planning a Small Business Saturday Shop Small Campaign running Nov. 26 to Dec. 4. Shoppers will be invited to patron participating small businesses for their chance to win Chamber Dollars. The chamber is encouraging all businesses to participate in its efforts to raise awareness of how supporting small business improves the quality of life for the entire community. “All businesses need one another. There’s a symbiotic relationship. But small business is the most endangered because many small businesses don’t operate with large cash reserves. When costs skyrocket, they feel it.” said Smith.

The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce is challenging everyone in the area to support small business this holiday season.

Small Business Season™ is a free global marketing campaign created to help share the message and educate on the importance of supporting not just a local business, but our neighbors and friends. Small businesses support our community by creating jobs as well as donating to our non-profits, our youth organizations, and our local events.