Saturday, November 29, 2025, is Small Business Saturday—a day to celebrate and support small businesses and all they do for our communities. With over 34 million small businesses in the country, it’s no secret that they are the lifeblood of the American economy.
Please join Busey and organizations across the country in supporting your community by shopping small and making a big impact.
What is Small Business Saturday?
Now a staple of the holiday shopping season, Small Business Saturday was created by American Express during the 2010 recession encouraging people to “Shop Small” on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and support the small businesses at the core of every thriving neighborhood. This year marks the 16th Small Business Saturday.
Most businesses can’t compete with large corporations on price, especially during the holiday season, when big box stores release Black Friday sales and doorbuster deals. Small Business Saturday acts as a counterbalance, a dedicated shopping day for small local businesses during the busiest shopping season of the year. Since it started in 2010, the movement has helped generate more than $210 billion in reported sales.
How Can You Participate?
Find small businesses to support as a customer.
Every time you pick up a cup of coffee from your favorite neighborhood café or buy a gift from a local artist's online store, you're shopping small and making a difference. Explore small businesses in your community!
Market yourself as a small business owner.
American Express offers free materials, including sample posters, social media resources and shop small map listings. Check with your Chamber of Commerce or local business association as well—many towns plan promotions around Small Business Saturday.
Support local businesses as a community organization.
In an effort to support their communities, organizations across the country serve as Neighborhood Champions. These supporters serve their communities with events and activities on Small Business Saturday and all year long.
Partner with Busey Small Business Administration (SBA) Lending
Busey is proud to provide small business owners with the expertise and creative funding needed to take business to the next level. Our team of SBA lenders are committed to helping your business grow and streamlining the loan process to ensure you have the right solutions as you plan your future.
To learn how Busey can help your small business thrive this Small Business Saturday and beyond, visit busey.com/sba.