The 2024 National Small Business Week is set to begin on Sunday, celebrating the contributions of small businesses and their owners to the US economy since 1963. This week-long event is a chance to recognize and appreciate these businesses, which are defined by criteria such as firm revenues, total employment, and North American Industry Classification Codes.
President Joe Biden has recognized the importance of small businesses in a proclamation, highlighting their role as the engine of the economy, employing nearly half of all private sector workers and contributing to every industry. He emphasized the significance of supporting small businesses to help them grow and thrive. Christopher Emge, the director of advocacy and public policy for the Bloomington Chamber of Commerce, shared that 80 percent of the 870 chamber member businesses are small businesses, which play a vital role in making the Bloomington community vibrant by circulating money back into the local economy.
In celebration of National Small Business Week, the US Small Business Administration will host a virtual summit on April 30 and May 1. This event is free for both established and aspiring business owners to attend and is co-sponsored by companies like Visa, T-Mobile, and Amazon. The summit will feature sessions on topics such as starting a food truck business, running a successful business, and networking opportunities. Registration is required and can be completed on the US SBA website.
