Small businesses are the backbone of the United States economy. As of 2025, there are more than 33 million small businesses in our country that employ close to 62 million workers.1 Besides employing roughly half of the American workforce, small businesses represent just under 44% of our nation's gross domestic product (GDP).
National Small Business Week, which takes place May 4-10, 2025, celebrates these businesses and their contributions to our communities and national economy. In this Huddle Business Capital blog article, we explain the history of National Small Business Week and discuss some of the in-person and online events taking place.
History of National Small Business Week.
The origin of National Small Business Week dates back to 1963 when President John F. Kennedy enacted a proclamation to honor U.S. small businesses each year during the first week of May.1 National Small Business Week now has awareness among business owners, employees, and consumers.
This recognition has been achieved through marketing and advertising efforts that encourage consumers to support local businesses. You may have seen ads online or on social media that promote National Small Business Week.
National Small Business Week events for business owners.
In celebration of National Small Business Week, the SBA will host various events in person and virtually to support small business owners. Whether attending online or engaging face-to-face with fellow entrepreneurs, small business owners can gain practical skills, ask questions, and build valuable relationships to help their businesses thrive. The following are some SBA events that will take place during National Small Business Week 2025, May 4-10, along with links to register.
Fast Track to Business Ownership Workshop
May 5-7 in Rochester, New York - $125
Launching a startup is a challenging and time-consuming endeavor that requires careful planning. This three-day in-person workshop is designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs better understand the challenges of starting a business and how to overcome them. Attending this workshop costs $125; you can register online here.
Doing Business with the Federal Government
May 6 in The Woodlands, Texas - Free
The United States Federal Government allocates over $700 billion yearly to purchase goods and services across various sectors. Nearly 25% of these prime contracts are set aside for small businesses, providing them with opportunities to compete and contribute to the economy. If you want to learn how to do business with the Federal Government, register here to reserve your spot at this in-person event.
Start & Finance Your Own Business
May 6 in Cheyenne, Wyoming - Free
This free in-person event is designed to help potential entrepreneurs learn the ins and outs of starting a business and how to obtain startup financing. Various business financing options will be discussed, including resources to consider when seeking startup capital. You can register for this in-person event here.
Storytelling for Social Media
May 6, Online - Free
The significance of social media for your small business is immense and cannot be overstated. By effectively leveraging social media, you can increase brand awareness, drive customer engagement, and boost sales. In this free online workshop, you will learn real-world tips on optimizing your social media posts and taking your online brand to the next level. Click here to reserve your place.
2-Day Virtual Summit
May 6-7, Online - Free
This virtual summit is designed to empower small business owners. This event, which is free to participate in, will feature a series of informative webinars, keynote speeches from industry mentors, complimentary business tips and tools, and networking opportunities. You can register online here.
Ready, Set, Go into Business!
May 7, Online - Free
This free online webinar will cover the basics of starting a business. Additionally, strategies for establishing and maintaining good business credit will be discussed, which is crucial for securing financing and fostering growth. Click here to reserve your place.
Developing a Business Plan
May 7 - Online - Free
A business plan is an essential component of your company's success. It serves as a strategic roadmap, outlining your business goals, the market landscape, and the strategies you will implement to achieve your objectives. This free online workshop will teach you the eight vital parts of a business plan and what to include when writing your plan. Click here to reserve your place.
Building a Healthy Business from the Ground Up Through Wellness
May 7, Online - Free
Establishing a thriving small business goes beyond just profitable margins; it requires an approach that prioritizes the health and wellness of employees, customers, and clients. This free online webinar is designed to provide business owners with strategies to build a healthy business from the ground up, with wellness initiatives that promote health and happiness in the workplace. Click here to reserve your place.
Conclusion
Huddle Business Capital hopes that you find this blog article helpful. We are committed to helping entrepreneurs run and grow their small businesses by connecting them with growth capital solutions from our network of lenders. We're a great teammate if your business needs funding for daily expenses, inventory, equipment, and vehicles. Contact us to learn more about our business funding options.
Source:
1 - https://www.uschamber.com/small-business/small-business-data-center
Disclaimer.
This Huddle Business Capital blog article is purely educational and contains general information and opinions; it is not intended to provide advice or recommendations of any kind. Huddle Business Capital is not affiliated with nor endorses the U.S. Chamber of Commerce or the Small Business Administration (SBA).
