Why Supporting Oklahoma’s Small Business Community Matters

Every year, on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, communities across the nation come together to celebrate Small Business Saturday—a day dedicated to recognizing the vital role small businesses play in our economy and daily lives. For Oklahomans, this day carries even deeper meaning. Small businesses aren’t just storefronts or service providers; they’re neighbors, job creators, and the backbone of our local identity.

As the Oklahoma Small Business Exchange (OKSBE), we are committed to helping small businesses grow, connect, and thrive. Small Business Saturday is a reminder of why this work matters so much.

Why Small Business Saturday Matters

Small businesses strengthen local economies. When shoppers choose local, more of that money stays within Oklahoma communities. Studies consistently show that dollars spent at small businesses are reinvested locally at a much higher rate than money spent at national chains. This means stronger schools, better infrastructure, and more resources for local families.

They Create Jobs and Opportunities

Oklahoma’s small businesses employ thousands and thousands of residents across the state. From family-owned shops on Main Street to innovative startups building the future, these businesses offer meaningful employment and foster the entrepreneurial spirit that drives Oklahoma forward.

Small Businesses Cultivate Community

Local business owners understand the needs, values, and culture of their communities because they live in them. They sponsor youth sports teams, support local charities, and take pride in contributing to the character of their towns. Small Business Saturday celebrates this relationship-driven approach.

Innovation Starts Small

Many groundbreaking products and services originate from small teams with big ideas. By supporting local entrepreneurs, Oklahomans are investing in innovation, creativity, and the next generation of homegrown success stories.

How Oklahomans Can Support Small Business — On Small Business Saturday and Every Day

• Shop local first — whether for gifts, services, or everyday essentials.

• Leave positive reviews to help small businesses build credibility online.

• Share posts and recommendations on social media to amplify visibility.

• Attend local markets and events featuring Oklahoma entrepreneurs.

• Engage with local business networks to stay connected and informed.

A Stronger Oklahoma Starts With Stronger Small Businesses

Small Business Saturday is more than a shopping day—it’s a celebration of the people and ideas that make Oklahoma vibrant. By choosing to support local, we invest in a thriving, resilient community that reflects the values and strengths of our state.

At OKSBE, we invite Oklahomans to champion small businesses not just this Saturday, but every day of the year. Together, we can build a future where every local entrepreneur has the opportunity to succeed.