Why It's Important to Support Small Businesses
Celebrating National Small Business Week — Austin Style
It’s National Small Business Week, and as a small business that provides financial management to Austin’s entrepreneurs and founders, you better believe we’re celebrating!
Small businesses spark creativity, innovation, community, and culture — but they’re also essential to our economy. According to NerdWallet’s breakdown of small business statistics, the Small Business Administration defines a small business as a company with fewer than 500 employees. That makes up:
Nearly 31 million businesses (99.9% of all U.S. businesses)
98.2% of businesses have fewer than 100 employees
89% have fewer than 20
Small businesses employ 47.5% of the U.S. workforce — that’s over 58 million jobs — and create about 1.5 million new jobs every year.
All those numbers just confirm what you probably already know: small businesses are the heartbeat of the American economy.
Small Businesses = Big Culture
Beyond their economic footprint, small businesses fuel individuality and local culture — especially in a city like Austin.
Just look at our city’s unofficial motto: “Keep Austin Weird”. That phrase came straight from the small business community. It’s a celebration of local flair, offbeat ideas, and unconventional thinking — the exact same traits that define so many small business owners.
And don’t forget: even today’s global corporations — Amazon included — started as small businesses. Amazon’s launch team? Just 11 people.
A Post-Pandemic Comeback
The economic impact of COVID-19 hit small businesses hard. Many closed their doors permanently. Others pivoted, scraped by, or sought support through PPP loans and grassroots solutions.
But the entrepreneurial spirit is still going strong. In fact, 2020 saw 4.3 million new business applications — a 24% increase from the previous year. Even a global pandemic couldn’t stop founders from building new things.
How You Can Support Small Businesses
In honor of National Small Business Week, here are a few easy (and meaningful) ways to show your support:
1. Give Them Your Business
Shop local. Go beyond restaurants and retail — explore local gyms, coaches, therapists, and more. Attend events, try new services, or check out their latest product launches.
2. Spread the Word
Buy branded merch. Gift products or gift cards. Recommend them to friends. These small gestures can drive big traffic.
3. Engage Online
Write a review. Share their posts. Tag them in your photos. Social proof is powerful, and your engagement could bring in their next loyal customer.
4. Say Thanks
A simple “thank you” goes a long way. Many small business owners pour everything into their work — your gratitude can make their day.
We're Here for Austin's Entrepreneurs
If you're a small business owner, you already know how much is on your plate — especially after the last few years.
As a team of entrepreneurs ourselves, NEST Financial is here to support your goals, whether you’re tackling payroll, taxes, growth, or launching something brand new.
📩 Email us anytime: info@nestfinancial.net
💬 Find us online: LinkedIn | Facebook | Yelp | Twitter
Let’s work together to keep Austin creative, driven, and yes — a little weird.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not financial or investment advice. For personalized guidance, reach out at info@nestfinancial.net.