The small businesses in SBA’s Lower Rio Grande Valley District are the backbone of our economy and the heartbeat of our communities. The impact of the pandemic has been tough on many of our small businesses. And still, small business owners continue to demonstrate their resilience and commitment to meet the moment before them. As the world changed, almost overnight, small business owners pivoted just as quickly to offer new modes of purchase, went virtual, and looked after the well-being of their employees, customers and communities. Now more than ever, small businesses need our support as they navigate, retool, and further pivot to endure through these transition months and beyond.

Celebrated each year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Small Business Saturday is a way for us to support independently-owned businesses. When we shop small on Nov. 26, we make a statement and our purchases make a difference.

Here are five ways to thank a small business this holiday season:

• Go virtual. Small retailers have made shopping safe and convenient through delivery and curbside pickup. Visit the websites of your favorite small businesses to complete your purchases. The beauty of virtual is that it could be from a small business from last summer’s vacation three states away.
• Buy gift cards. Local cafes, restaurants and breweries offer these for take-out or to save for later use. Like retailers, food and beverage businesses provide safe and easy online ordering and curbside pickup.
• Support the arts. Visit the websites of your favorite local music and theatre organizations to purchase tickets to virtual concerts and performances.
• Get social (media). Share and engage with social media content from your favorite small business to boost its online marketing efforts. Also, be sure to leave a positive online review.
• Go local. Visit the local chambers of commerce website to find a directory of small businesses. While there, look for how to join them for their celebration of Small Business Saturday and the holiday season.

For more information on how to be a part of Small Business Saturday, visit sba.gov/saturday. In addition, small Businesses can find more tips on how to boost holiday sales and take advantage of local business counseling, training, and financing resources by visiting sba.gov.

Lastly, take care, be safe this holiday season and support small businesses.