Shop Small This Saturday And Support The Local Economy
The month of November is not only a time to stop and give thanks for that which we are grateful, but it is also a time to stop and look around at the tremendous opportunities for small business owners in Greater Des Moines. This is something we can all be thankful about, because when small businesses are flourishing, we know our economy is strong and growing. Saturday, Nov. 30 is Small Business Saturday, which is a day to celebrate and support small businesses and what they do for their communities.
As we all know, our region’s entrepreneurs do a lot to support Des Moines. Whether it is by starting a new venture or joining a local Chamber of Commerce, small businesses are the backbone of the local economy, and we must do what we can to support their efforts. You can start by not only participating in Small Business Saturday, but you can also buy local all year around.
The Greater Des Moines Partnership’s research has found that every year, business and local governments in Des Moines spend over $13.4 billion for goods and services from out-of area suppliers. That’s $13.4 billion annually for out-of-market purchases that would play a significant role in the growth and development of regional businesses. These dollars could mean expanded products and services, added jobs, salaries, better schools, parks, streets, and public services.
That’s why the Partnership and its Affiliate Chambers are encouraging residents to look for purchasing opportunities within Des Moines — before they buy anywhere else.
We don’t expect everyone to shift 100 percent of their business needs to the region, but even a small shift in local spending would make a big impact. Shifting 5 percent, just 5 percent of your spending, could add over $672 million a year to the local economy. That $672 million could cause a ripple effect in our local economy and generate an economic impact of over $1 billion — resulting in thousands of new jobs.
As we move into the holiday season, let’s all look to our local businesses first and contribute to a better community in which to live, work and play.
Visit sba.gov/about-sba/sba-initiatives/small-business-saturday for more information about Small Business Saturday and for Get free Small Business Saturday® marketing materials — including sample posters, press releases and social media updates.
About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 23 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,100 Regional Business Members and more than 330 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.