It’s not too early to start ramping up for the holiday season, particularly Small Business Saturday. We have Small Business Saturday ideas that you can start organizing now. Your existing customers already support small businesses; Small Business Saturday is the perfect opportunity for the small business owner to engage more customers.

What Is Small Business Saturday?

American Express created and promoted Small Business Saturday in 2010, during the aftermath of the U.S. financial crisis when many small businesses were struggling. The idea was to encourage consumers to spend money in their local community, at small, independent businesses, rather than at large big box stores, especially during the holiday shopping season.

Small Business Saturday annually happens on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, sandwiched between the more widely recognized shopping days of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, when consumers shop online. In this context, Black Friday traditionally focuses on big-box retailers and Cyber Monday is oriented towards business online shopping. Small Business Saturday, then, provides a dedicated day to highlight and support local small business owners.

Why Should Small Businesses Participate in Small Business Saturday?

Small businesses should participate and enjoy the support of the local chamber of commerce, small business groups and municipalities. Since its inception, Small Business Saturday has gained significant traction.

It’s the perfect chance for the small business owner to build a list of loyal customers.

• Increased Visibility: Participating in Small Business Saturday can amplify a business’s presence during the competitive holiday shopping season. The widespread promotion surrounding the day can help draw attention to local businesses that might otherwise be overshadowed by large retailers.
• Support from the Community: Small Business Saturday fosters a sense of community and encourages consumers to consciously choose local businesses. This can lead to increased customer loyalty and the establishment of long-term relationships with local patrons.
• Access to Promotional Materials: American Express and other partners often provide free marketing materials, both physical and digital marketing, to businesses participating in the event. This reduces marketing costs and offers professionally designed resources to promote their business.
• Networking Opportunities: The day often sees local chambers of commerce, business associations, and other community groups organizing events or promotions. Participating in Small Business Saturday can provide opportunities for local businesses to collaborate, share resources, and potentially gain new business partners.
• Economic Impact: Money spent at local businesses tends to stay in the community. By driving sales on Small Business Saturday, business owners not only boost their own bottom line but also contribute to a stronger local economy, benefiting other businesses and the community at large.

Top Small Business Saturday Marketing Ideas

1. Shop Local Campaign

Collaborate with other local businesses and the community to create a unified Shop Small advertising campaign, even creating a local shopping guide. Pool resources for more visibility or to design paid ads. Involve local media such as the local newspaper or radio station.

2. Limited Time Offers

Create special promotions or discounts that are available to those who shop locally during the Small Business Saturday event.

3. Loyalty Discounts

Encourage your most loyal customers by offering them special deals when they Shop Small that day.

4. Pop-up Events

Host pop-up shops or collaborate another local business or businesses to offer joint sales or events. If the weather is good, consider using a local park where customers can gather for special sales or events.

5. Themed Merchandise

Release special edition products or services themed around Small Business Saturday.

6. Local Artist Showcase

Feature products from local artisans or feature live demonstrations. These are great ways to increase foot traffic.

7. Social Media Countdown

Start a countdown with social media posts a week or more before the day with daily posts or a blog post highlighting services or deals for local consumers. Then, have a kickoff event to start the day.

8. Gift Wrapping Service

Offer free service of complimentary or unique gift wrapping for purchases made on Small Business Saturday. You might enlists members of a local service group to perform this service and show their enthusiasm for supporting small businesses.

9. Live Music

Hire local musicians to perform, creating an inviting ambiance. Or invite members of local school bands.

10. Giveaways and Raffles

Host a giveaway or raffle with every purchase, offering the chance to win a free gift, prize, or service. Offering free gifts and services are common Small Business Saturday promotions.

11. Shop Local Tote Bags

Design reusable tote bags promoting “Shop Local” for the first X number of customers who Shop Small. Reusable totes are popular and show the customer’s support of the Small Business Saturday sales.

12. Extended Hours

Extend your business hours for early birds or late-night shoppers. Other participating businesses can offer similar hours.

Popular Small Business Promotion Events and Ideas

13. Collaborate with a Cause

Partner with a local charity and donate a percentage of the day’s sales. You can also collect donations.

14. Free Samples

Offer free samples or demonstrations of your products. Utilize social media in the days leading to the event to advertise the times of the demonstrations. Offer free coffee.

15. Interactive Workshops

Host classes or workshops related to your unique products/services to further reach out to your niche market. Advertise the times on social media platforms.

16. Promote User-Generated Content

Encourage customers to share information about their their purchases on social media using a unique hashtag. Hashtags are a popular part of social media marketing and help your business stand out from others with social media followers.

17. Email Newsletter Blast

Send a special newsletter to your mailing list highlighting exclusive deals. Digital marketing is powerful, but for an “all in one platform’ use all the advertising methods available. Don’t overlook email marketing. Get information from your customers that day, so that they can be added to your list of email subscribers.

18. Partnership Discounts

Boost sales when you collaborate with neighboring businesses to offer exclusive discounts when customers shop at both places.

19. In-Store Events

Host a special event like a fashion show, product launch, or meet-the-maker session as a key focus of your Small Business Saturday marketing campaign. A special event may encourage people to stop by, especially if seating is available for weary shoppers.

20. Instagram/Facebook Live

Go live showcasing products, behind-the-scenes looks, or interviews with staff. You can even interact and interview new customers.

21. Loyalty Member Pre-Sale

During the week leading to the Small Business shopping holiday, offer a pre-sale or early access to deals for loyalty program members.

22. Street Fair

Collaborate with other businesses to organize a mini street fair or market to help drive traffic to a specific area.

23. Feature Customer Testimonials

Highlight customer reviews or testimonials in your promotions, showcasing the value of your product or service. Use social media channels to showcase the reviews and testimonials, further building relationships.

24. Referral Discounts

Offer discounts to customers who refer friends or family. Having loyal customers spread the word about your business will help you reach your target audience of potential customers.

25. Thank-You Notes

Include handwritten thank-you notes with each purchase to personalize the shopping experience and thank people for shopping locally.

Idea #	Marketing Idea	Description	Key Benefit
1	Shop Local Campaign	Collaborate with other local businesses & community for a unified campaign.	Boosts community engagement & visibility.
2	Limited Time Offers	Special promotions or discounts available only on that day.	Increases urgency to buy.
3	Loyalty Discounts	Special deals for most loyal customers.	Rewards loyalty & encourages repeat sales.
4	Pop-up Events	Collaborative events or joint sales with other local businesses.	Increases foot traffic & offers variety.
5	Themed Merchandise	Release special edition products/services for the day.	Enhances product uniqueness.
6	Local Artist Showcase	Feature products or live demonstrations from local artisans.	Draws attention & supports local talent.
7	Social Media Countdown	Daily posts or blogs leading to the day highlighting deals/services.	Builds anticipation.
8	Gift Wrapping Service	Offer unique or complimentary gift wrapping.	Adds value to purchases.
9	Live Music	Hire local musicians or school bands to perform.	Enhances store atmosphere.
10	Giveaways and Raffles	Offer a chance to win gifts or services with every purchase.	Entices purchase & excitement.
11	Shop Local Tote Bags	Offer reusable totes promoting “Shop Local”.	Enhances brand visibility beyond the store.
12	Extended Hours	Longer business hours for varied shopper schedules.	Accommodates more customers.
13	Collaborate with a Cause	Partner with local charities for sales donations.	Shows community support & drives sales.
14	Free Samples	Demonstrate or give out product samples.	Encourages product trial.
15	Interactive Workshops	Host niche classes or workshops.	Engages & educates customers.
16	Promote User-Generated Content	Encourage social media sharing with unique hashtags.	Increases online visibility & engagement.
17	Email Newsletter Blast	Special email to mailing list highlighting deals.	Directly reaches dedicated customers.
18	Partnership Discounts	Collaborate for discounts when shopping at multiple businesses.	Drives multi-business sales.
19	In-Store Events	Host special events like product launches or fashion shows.	Offers unique shopping experience.
20	Instagram/Facebook Live	Live showcases or interviews.	Real-time engagement & product visibility.
21	Loyalty Member Pre-Sale	Early access to deals for loyalty members.	Rewards loyal customers & drives early sales.
22	Street Fair	Joint fair or market to drive traffic.	Encourages community engagement.
23	Feature Customer Testimonials	Showcase customer reviews in promotions.	Builds trust & credibility.
24	Referral Discounts	Discounts for customer referrals.	Expands customer base & rewards loyalty.
25	Thank-You Notes	Personalize shopping experience with handwritten notes.	Adds a personal touch & shows appreciation.

FAQs

When Did Small Business Saturday Start?

Small Business Saturday was created and promoted by American Express in 2010, during the aftermath of the U.S. financial crisis when many small businesses were struggling. The idea was to encourage consumers to spend money in their local community, at small, independent businesses, rather than at large big box stores, especially during the holiday shopping season.

How Much Do People Spend on Small Business Saturday?

• In 2019, an estimated 110 million consumers shopped small on Small Business Saturday, and they reportedly spent a record high of approximately $19.6 billion at independent retailers and restaurants.
• In 2020, the spending dynamics shifted somewhat due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Even so, 68 million consumers were reported to have shopped small, spending an estimated $19.8 billion on Small Business Saturday.
• In 2021, 51 million shoppers participated in Small Business Saturday.
• Nearly 6 in 10 (59 percent) holiday shoppers plan to participate in Small Business Saturday 2022—more than Black Friday (56 percent).
• Around 34% of consumers have plans to shop on Small Business Saturday, an increase from 30% in 2020.
• Total reported spending among U.S. consumers who shopped at independent retailers and restaurants to promote Small Business Saturday reached an estimated $23.3 billion in 2021, up 18% from $19.8 billion in 2020 and an increase from pre-pandemic spending in 2019 ($19.6 billion).

How Can Small Businesses Attract Customers During the Holiday Shopping Season?

One of the best ways to attract customers is by participating in Small Business Saturday. Not only will you attract new customers to your small business, you may meet and partner with other small business these ships may last long after the holiday season, once the contact has been made.

Read More:

Image: Envato Elements

---

More in: Small Business Saturday

---

This is to inform prospective students wishing to apply to FUPRE that the University has commenced admission into two (2) new undergraduate programmes, having secured approval from the NUC after a resource verification exercise carried out by its panels of experts.

These full-time undergraduate programmes under the College of Maritime and Offshore Studies will be available for students with effect from the 2023/2024 academic session.

Courses

The two (2) new courses are:

1. B.Sc. Maritime Economics and Finance
2. B.Sc. Maritime Transport and Logistics

Admission Requirements

As the University continues to expand its academic offerings, it has also improved its library holdings to foster intellectual growth.

Accordingly, the University Management wishes to invite interested candidates who scored 170 and above in the 2023 UTME to apply for the above courses, as the Post-UTME Online Application for 2022/2023 Admission Exercise commenced on Wednesday, 9th August 2023 is still ongoing.

To that effect, eligible and interested candidates are advised to visit the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun website: https://portal.fupre.edu.ng and to carefully follow the instructions on the website when completing the application form.

The Post-UTME Screening Exercise will be held from 25th to 27th September 2023, and your scheduled date for Post UTME Screening will be communicated to you via the email and the phone number you filled in during the application process.

Let me know if you have any questions or need further clarification. I would love to assist you.

You can watch my videos on the Studentship YouTube Channel by clicking here.

Join my Facebook Group or Like my Facebook Page for more interactive discussions.

Have you ever seen a WordPress website and wondered, “What WordPress theme is that?” If so — and who hasn’t? — you’ll be thrilled to learn there’s a WordPress theme detector strategy you can harness. 

(more…)

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has earmarked $8 million for the 2023 Program for Investment in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME) grant awards to prop up the U.S. micro-business ecosystem.

The significance of this announcement for America’s small business community cannot be overstated. It offers a clear pathway for microentrepreneurs, especially those facing economic disadvantages, to tap into the capital, training, and technical support they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

Administrator Guzman emphasized the role of these grants in powering the ambitions of budding entrepreneurs, stating, “SBA PRIME grants support nonprofit organizations that are on the ground locally providing assistance to small businesses so they can get capital ready and access funding to start and grow resilient businesses.”

This statement speaks volumes for small business owners, hinting at the Biden-Harris Administration’s broader strategy. The goal is not just to drive economic growth but to ensure that growth is inclusive. The administration seeks to dismantle traditional barriers and capital gaps, particularly in underserved communities, thereby fostering a diverse and vibrant business landscape.

The PRIME grants are set to impact 32 organizations nationwide. By partnering with these community-focused entities, the SBA ensures that the benefits percolate down to the grassroots level. Small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs stand to gain from a range of services, including program development, technical assistance and facilitated access to much-needed capital.

Given the changing face of America’s entrepreneurial community, the SBA’s decision to spotlight organizations assisting entrepreneurs in rural zones is timely. Moreover, prioritizing those providing in-language technical support to varied rural-owned businesses showcases the administration’s commitment to ensuring every entrepreneur, regardless of background or language proficiency, has the tools to succeed.

Historically, PRIME grants have been instrumental in democratizing access to capital. Since its inception in 1999, through the Program for Investment in Microentrepreneurs Act, the grants have targeted organizations that put the interests of low-income entrepreneurs at the forefront. The essence of these grants is to provide them with the financial muscle they need to set up and expand their ventures.

For small business owners, understanding the intricacies of the PRIME grant can translate to tangible benefits. The grant amounts for 2023 vary between $100,000 and $400,000. However, there’s a catch: organizations typically must show at least a 50% match through funds or in-kind contributions. Grant funds are scheduled for release on September 30, 2023, with each grant covering a project period of one year.

Given the rapidly evolving business landscape and the unprecedented challenges the pandemic brought to the fore, initiatives like the PRIME grants can serve as a lifeline for many small businesses. For those curious about the specifics and keen on exploring potential collaboration or benefits, a comprehensive list of this year’s grantees and further details are available at the SBA’s official website.

The SBA’s $8 million PRIME grant initiative symbolizes more than just financial support. It represents the U.S. government’s faith in the power of small businesses and microentrepreneurs, acknowledging their pivotal role in shaping America’s economic future.

For the latest, follow us on Google News.

Image: Envato Elements

---

The Federal University Otuoke invites applications from qualified candidates for admission into its Basic Studies programme for the 2023/2024 Academic Session.

The Basic Studies programme is a two semester preparatory programme geared towards securing admission into the underlisted degree programmes.

FUOTUOKE Pre-Degree Courses

• Engineering
  • B.Eng. Chemical Engineering
  • B.Eng. Civil Engineering
  • B.Eng. Electrical/Electronic Engineering
  • B.Eng. Mechatronics Engineering
  • B.Eng. Mechanical Engineering
  • B.Eng. Petroleum and Gas Engineering
• Basic Medical Science
  • B.Sc. Anatomy
  • B.Sc. Physiology
• Nursing Science
• Medical Laboratory Science
• Science
  • B.Sc. Chemistry
  • B.Sc. Physics
  • B.Sc. Biochemistry
  • B.Sc.Environmental Management and Toxicology
  • B.Sc. Biology
  • B.Sc. Geology
  • B.Sc. Computer Science and Informatics
  • B.Sc. Microbiology
  • B.Sc. Mathematics
  • B.Sc. Statistics
  • B.Sc. Cybersecurity
• Science Education
  • B.Sc. Ed. Biology Education
  • B.Sc. Ed. Chemistry Education
  • B.Sc. Ed. Physics Education
  • B.Sc.Ed. Computer Science Education
  • B.Sc.Ed. Mathematics Education

Admission Requirements

Applicants into the Basic Studies programme are required to have credit passes in O’Level WAEC, NECO or NABTEB in at least five subjects including English Language, Mathematics and three other relevant Science subjects at not more than two sittings.

Successful applicants must enrol and sit for the 2024 JAMB/UTME Examination with the relevant subject combination for the desired degree programme.

Method of Application

Candidates are to make a Non-refundable payment of Ten Thousand Naira (10,000.00NGN) only.

Visit Applications at http://ecampus.fuotuoke.edu.ng for the online application.

Documents for Online Registration

Applicants are to upload:

1. Passport photograph ( in JPG format)
2. Scanned copy of WAEC/NECO/NABTEB O’ level result(s)
3. Scanned copy of LGA identification letter (in PDF format)
4. Scanned copy of Birth Certificate or Age Declaration (in PDF format)

On completion of the Online process, applicants are to come with a copy of the application acknowledgement printout and copies of all the uploaded documents to the School of Basic Studies complex, East Campus, Federal University Otuoke, for clearance and registration.

Closing date for Online Application is Saturday 30th September 2023.

For Enquiries: +2348037100416

Email: b[email protected]

Signed: Yousuo Donald Iruo

Registrar

---

Let me know if you have any questions or need further clarification. I would love to assist you.

You can watch my videos on the Studentship YouTube Channel by clicking here.

Join my Facebook Group or Like my Facebook Page for more interactive discussions.

Like most millennials, I like video games. Hell, I grew up on them. Smash Bros, Galaga, Goldeneye, you name it. I was the quintessential middle school boy crushing Mountain Dew, playing Call of Duty until 2 A.M.

(more…)