New York (WRGB) — Governor Hochul is encouraging New Yorkers to support small businesses this holiday season, highlighting their essential role in job creation and strengthening local communities.
New York will recognize Small Business Saturday on November 29, encouraging shoppers to choose local retailers, restaurants, and service providers as they check off their holiday lists.
Governor Hochul said,
Every time we choose a local shop, restaurant, or service provider, we’re investing in our neighbors and our neighborhoods. As the daughter of a small business owner, I know the long hours, hard work, and heart that go into running a family business. Small Business Saturday is a reminder that our local enterprises aren’t just places to shop, they’re engines of opportunity and cornerstones of community. This holiday season, I encourage New Yorkers to shop small and help keep our main streets thriving.
State officials say small businesses, those with fewer than 100 employees, make up 98% of all New York businesses and employ nearly 40% of the private-sector workforce. From farm stores and family-owned shops to independent restaurants and tech startups, many contribute to what the Governor calls the “character and creativity” of communities statewide.
Empire State Development President and CEO Hope Knight emphasized that small businesses “drive innovation, create jobs, and define the character of our communities,” saying,
New York’s small businesses drive innovation, create jobs, and define the character of our communities. When we support them, we’re not only fueling local growth – we’re preserving the character and creativity that make New York unique. Empire State Development is proud to support entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources, programs, and capital they need to grow and succeed in every region of the state.
In the release it says, the retail sector alone generates billions in revenue, including $507 billion in sales in 2024, and collected $20.3 billion in state sales tax, according to state leaders. Retail workers bring home an average of $971 per week, supporting household income across the state.
According to a release, under Hochul’s leadership, New York has expanded access to funding, training, and technical assistance. Available resources include:
- Main Street Capital Loan Fund: Up to $100,000 in startup and early-stage financing (Learn more here)
- Small Business Technical Assistance: Free expert support for meeting funding requirements (Learn more here)
- Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers: Support network for early-stage business development (Learn more here)
- Low Interest Capital Program (LINC): Expanded financing to help thousands of small businesses grow (Learn more here)
Additionally, the New York State Department of Labor offers hiring assistance, career fairs, and business tax credit resources.
State leaders are encouraging people to:
- Shop local and independently owned stores
- Buy gift cards to support future business
- Visit farmers markets for seasonal foods and gifts
- Explore New York-made goods at Taste NY markets or online
- Try neighborhood restaurants and cafés
- Share experiences and positive reviews online
During Small Business Saturday, shoppers can also save 30% at ShopTasteNY.com, which features New York-made food items, crafts, and specialty gifts.
