For the last 10 years, there has been a national effort to collectively support local businesses with Small Business Saturday. Since 2010, this initiative has served as a reminder that gifts and services purchased locally for the holidays supports businesses and jobs in our backyards. In fact, it is estimated that 67 cents of every $1 spent at local businesses stays in the local economy, which helps support employees’ wages and benefits and other businesses nearby. In addition, it is estimated that for every 10 jobs at a small business, another seven are supported in the local community.

The day, which is held the Saturday after Thanksgiving each year, also provides an opportunity to shed light on the long-term and far-reaching impact that small businesses have on the local economy. More than half of all private-sector workers earn a paycheck from small businesses. Collectively, these businesses provide 3.9 million jobs statewide and in 2018 were responsible for about $212.6 billion in payroll in New York alone. While small businesses are defined as having 500 employees or less, 81 percent of small businesses in New York have fewer than 10 employees. They provide more than 957,000 jobs with payrolls totaling $43 billion.

Locally, their impact cannot be overstated. The jobs small businesses create in individual counties was recently outlined in a report put together by the State Comptroller which was based on the latest Census from 2013. Oswego County reported 1,827 small businesses, which supported 14,096 employees; Onondaga County reported 9,001 small businesses, which employed 103,138 people; and Jefferson County reported 1,894 small businesses that provided jobs for 18,091.

Because the businesses are owned, managed, and have employees who live in the local community, they are also inherently community-minded and are more likely to create relationships in local neighborhoods and develop partnerships with local leaders — all of which contributes to stronger local economy and creates safer communities. Many also contribute generously to community causes and support other small businesses in the area. All of this helps increase local sales-tax receipts and, in general, adds to local tax base, which supports municipal services, local roads, and education and improves the quality of life for all residents.

To learn more about small businesses in New York state and to access resources for small-business owners, visit Empire State Development’s website. This agency shares details on financing and grant opportunities available to small businesses at https://esd.ny.gov/doing-business-ny/small-business-hub.       

William (Will) A. Barclay is the Republican representative of the 120th New York Assembly District, which encompasses most of Oswego County, including the cities of Oswego and Fulton, as well as the town of Lysander in Onondaga County and town of Ellisburg in Jefferson County. Contact him at barclaw@assembly.state.ny.us or (315) 598-5185.

Support your friends and neighbors

Christmas is nearly here, and for those of you who love to wait until the last minute to check off all the names on your shopping list, there are some great local options to help you find that perfect present. 

The Finger Lakes region is packed full of shops, artisans, farms and boutiques with gifts for every stocking on the mantle. The area’s many wineries, breweries, and cideries are truly special and are an incredible anchor to the retail sector.

 Also while shopping this year, consider giving gift cards to local restaurants and shops, or making a charitable donation to a local women’s shelter in support of domestic-violence victims, the homeless shelter, the humane society, or an addiction recovery center in someone’s name or memory. These are thoughtful presents that support our neighbors and can make a real impact in the community.

Small businesses continue to thrive due to quality goods

 Many Finger Lakes region small businesses thrive simply due to the quality of their services and products. Across the U.S., retail sales during November and December are expected to jump as much as 4.2 percent, to a whopping $730 billion in sales, compared to last season. The more shoppers spend in their communities, the stronger the economic impact will be to the local and state economies.

 One great way to support the region is to participate in the “24 Days of Shopping Small” challenge, which is already in progress. Leading up to Christmas Eve, shoppers are encouraged to use a Shop Small Passport to keep track of how many small businesses they visit during the busy holiday shopping season. For those participating in the event, rewards include great discounts and products. 

I have personally had the great pleasure of watching the Finger Lakes region grow into a world-class destination. What was once a quaint corner of New York has turned into a booming tourist attraction with unparalleled goods and services. None of this would be possible without the support of area residents who continue to invest in their neighbors.       

Brian M. Kolb (R,I,C–Canandaigua), a former small-business owner, is the New York Assembly Minority Leader and represents the 131st Assembly District, which encompasses all of Ontario County and parts of Seneca County. Contact him at kolbb@nyassembly.gov