The Van Buren Chamber announces the launch of Small Business Season, a community-wide initiative to champion the importance of supporting local businesses throughout the holiday season. Beginning on November 1st and continuing through the end of the year, Small Business Season aims to reacquaint residents with the unique benefits of shopping local and the lasting impact it has on our community.

There’s a reason Hallmark movies focus on small businesses! When you shop small, you create beautiful memories that extend far beyond the gifts we purchase. By supporting our local businesses, we're investing in the heart of Van Buren and creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.

Small Business Season encourages residents to explore the diverse range of shops, restaurants, and services that make our community unique. By choosing to shop local, you're supporting your neighbors and contributing to a thriving economy. Shopping local also offers a more personalized and enjoyable experience, with knowledgeable staff and unique products you won't find anywhere else.

The Chamber invites everyone to join us in celebrating Small Business Season and rediscovering the joy of shopping local. Let's make this holiday season one to remember by visiting the businesses that make our community so special.

Our small businesses create the unique character and charm that makes Van Buren special. When you choose to shop small this holiday season, you're not simply buying gifts; you're creating shared experiences and lasting memories. These local businesses support us year-round, enriching our lives through their contributions to our schools, sports teams, arts programs, and countless other community endeavors. This holiday season, let's return the favor by supporting them and celebrating the beauty of our local community together.

When buyers shop locally their spending has a profound impact on the area. More money stays within the community, fueling economic prosperity. Data shows that for every $100 spent at a local business, approximately $68 stays in the community, compared to only $43 when spent at a national chain. This money also supports local jobs, infrastructure, and other essential community services. The small business sector plays a pivotal role in the economic growth of Van Buren, our area, and nation.

Small businesses employ 46% of the private sector workforce and that number is expected to grow as an estimated 62% of Millennials and 75% of Gen Z want to start their own businesses. If we don’t support new small business, young people will go elsewhere to explore their dreams.

For a full schedule of events, please visit the Chamber Events Calendar or VanBuren.org.