Goshen, N.Y. – Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus is asking residents and visitors alike to take part in Small Business Saturday (SBS) in Orange County on November 24th.

“Small Business Saturday gives us the opportunity to support Orange County’s diverse small businesses and show community spirit,” Neuhaus said. “When small businesses thrive, our communities benefit. Our local business owners work hard and are a vital part of our economy. I encourage residents to support our local businesses, not just on Small Business Saturday, but throughout the entire year.”

There are approximately 9,000 small businesses in Orange County and for every $100 spent locally, $73 stays in the economy. There are 30.2 million small businesses in the United States, accounting for 99.9 percent of U.S. businesses, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy.

U.S. small businesses employ approximately 58.9 million, accounting for 47.5 percent of the private workforce.

Small Business Saturday is held nationally every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It is dedicated to supporting the local businesses that are a critical component of the fabric of our communities and economies. Launched in 2010 and placed on Facebook at facebook.com/shopsmall, SBS received 1.2 million ‘likes’ in its first month. The U. S. Senate officially recognized Small Business Saturday in 2011.

“Small businesses are the backbone of Orange County’s growing and vibrant economy,” Neuhaus said. “When you shop locally, you are boosting the community’s economy. Orange County has a thriving business community and we will continue to support and encourage our local businesses.”

For more information and to see a list of local businesses who are partnering with the Orange County Chamber of Commerce for Small Business Saturday, call the Chamber at 457-9700.

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