Hochul urges support for small businesses during holiday shopping season

Posted 24 November 2023 at 11:18 am

Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office

File photo: Kathy Hochul, when she was the state’s lieutenant governor, stopped at Case-Nic Cookies on Nov. 26, 2016 for Small Business Saturday. She bought a snack and chatted with store owner Mary Lou Tuohey. Medina Mayor Mike Sidari is in back.

Governor Kathy Hochul is encouraging New Yorkers to support local and regional small businesses during the holiday season – especially this Saturday for “Small Business Saturday,” which celebrates the dedication and spirit of the state’s small business owners.

Small businesses represent 98 percent of all New York State businesses, and support 40 percent of the private sector workforce. By shopping locally, New Yorkers invest revenue and tax dollars back into their communities, support jobs, and further promote regional economic growth.

“As the daughter of a small business owner, I know it takes hard work and perseverance to start and grow a business,” Governor Hochul said. “Since the beginning of my administration, we have made historic investments in New York’s small businesses, which provide jobs, boost local economies, and have a huge impact on communities across the state. This Small Business Saturday and every day, I encourage New Yorkers to shop locally.”

How to Support Small Businesses Every Day

Shop local – Make efforts to shop at small, local stores in your community. By shopping small, you are stimulating your local economy since small business owners tend to purchase supplies and goods nearby.
Purchase gift cards – Most small businesses, from your favorite restaurant, bar or coffee shop, your neighborhood specialty retailer, or your local hair salon, offer gift cards or gift certificates. By purchasing gift cards, it will inject needed investment into these businesses well past the holiday season.
Head to your local farmer’s market – Many outdoor farmer’s markets may head indoors this time of year, but there are still many one of a kind, unique offerings. From hand-made crafts to seasonal greenery – your local farmer’s market is a great place to support local small businesses.
Visit or order take out or delivery from your local bar or restaurant – Don’t forget to tip well. Restaurant workers were hit among the hardest by the pandemic. Many restaurants are still offering curbside delivery.
Give positive reviews – If you have found a great product, meal, or service or even a great promotion or sale, let your friends and family know. Don’t forget to leave a great review on your social media feed. The best advertising is word-of-mouth.
If you have to make a return, take a store credit over a refund if you can – This keeps the money within the small business and every little bit helps.

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Small businesses are vital to our local economies; they are owned by our neighbors and friends and reinvest back into our communities. As we look ahead to Small Business Saturday, please remember to support your locally-owned businesses this weekend and all throughout the holiday season.”