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The Greater Valley Area Chamber of Commerce hosted Small Business Week from May 5 to 9. The week was filled with activities meant to encourage and support the small businesses in the community. 

National Small Business Week was recently recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) as a week supporting and recognizing the over 30 million small businesses in the U.S. According to the U.S. SBA, small businesses “make up 99% of all businesses in America and create two out of every three new jobs – employing about half of America’s workforce.”

“We created the map in hopes to help everyone shop local and give them out-of-the-box ideas on how to help all of our local businesses, so each day this week we had a different theme,” said Carrie Wood, GVACC director. 

On Monday, the GVACC celebrated the @MentionMonday, encouraging residents to mention their favorite businesses on their social media with the @ symbol. Next was Takeout Tuesday, where people had to eat at local restaurants for breakfast, lunch or dinner. 

Women Crush Wednesday was the day that residents should support women in business. 

Thursday was Thirsty Thursday. The GVACC encouraged residents to stop by their favorite restaurant for a local brew. 

Finally, for Five Star Friday, people were to leave a positive five-star review for their favorite local business. 

The GVACC also hosted the Chamber Challenge, asking people to take a $20 pledge to support local in honor of Small Business Month.

“Sometimes supporting small businesses does not have to come financially, it can come with a simple task such as sharing their post, giving them five-star reviews, or referring them to your family and friends,” Wood said. “Our small businesses are the backbone of our community and we hope that this week has helped them prosper.”

Some of the new businesses in Chambers County to open are Zek’s 37, Pack N’ Ship, D. Lane Agency, Alexander’s and Blue Button.