Wadena County Supports Local this Small Business Saturday

Classic holiday shopping memories often center around visiting a small business in a downtown setting. Nothing is more special than finding the perfect gift at a local store where the owners greet you by name, swap stories and ask you how your family is doing. You will undoubtedly experience this type of friendly atmosphere in Wadena County. On Small Business Saturday, November 26, the West Central Economic Development Alliance would like to thank all of the small businesses in Wadena County for their positive impact on our lives – during the holidays and all year long!

Celebrate Local Businesses this Small Business Saturday

American Express created Small Business Saturday in 2010. The celebration takes place each year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and has been cosponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) since 2011. It is a reminder to show appreciation to local shops and restaurants and to encourage shopping small throughout the holiday season. It is also an excuse to visit them to see what they offer.

Shopping small in Wadena County positively impacts our local and U.S. economies. In the last 25 years, small businesses have created over 60% of new jobs, just one of the many vital reasons to direct holiday spending toward small businesses.

In November of 2021, American Express reported that the results of a study found consumers shopping small during the holidays that year could likely contribute approximately $695 billion to the national small business economy. According to the study, 78% of small businesses noted that 2021 holiday sales would keep their business up and running in 2022. 

The National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) reported that the support small businesses receive on Small Business Saturday helps them to start the holiday season strong. 92% of small businesses said that Small Business Saturday helps attract attention to their business throughout the holidays and 96% of Small Business Saturday shoppers noted that this day gives them a thirst for shopping small more often. 

Find Discounts and Promotions in Wadena County

Local businesses tend to offer specials and discounts this time to add excitement to holiday shopping. Some shops will even have extended hours during the holidays and on Small Business Saturday. Check out these Wadena County resources that list local businesses and events this holiday season.

Wadena Chamber of Commerce

The Christmas Festival occurs November 26, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, with carriage rides and a visit from Santa. Attendees can stroll amidst the 100 vendors or enjoy live entertainment throughout the day. 

Staples-Motley Area Chamber

Menahga Civic & Commerce Association

How to Support Wadena County Businesses

Shopping small can be as easy as grabbing a cup of coffee from a nearby cafe in Wadena County. Whether you are getting a bite to eat at a family-owned restaurant or buying a gift for your friend at a mom-and-pop shop, you are helping to support small businesses and build the national and local economies. Go the extra mile to give these independent retailers a satisfactory review online and share your interest on social media.

Beyond generating new jobs that strengthen the local economy, small businesses develop the character of Wadena County, making for unique little adventures with friends and family. The West Central Economic Development Alliance asks everyone to join together in buying in-store and online from local independent retailers on Saturday, November 26 this year!