ALABAMA (WKRG) — Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey proclaimed the Saturday after Thanksgiving as Small Business Saturday in the state.
According to a news release from Gov. Ivey’s office, the event highlights the role small businesses play in Alabama’s communities and economy while also encouraging residents to shop locally during the holidays.
“The Saturday after Thanksgiving is a time when many of us gather with family and friends, often to enjoy one of Alabama’s great traditions, the Iron Bowl,” Gov. Ivey said. “As you prepare for the holiday season – and perhaps for the big game – I encourage everyone to take a moment to visit local small businesses. It’s a great way to celebrate the season, support your community and make this weekend a win for our great state.”
There are 449,024 small businesses in Alabama, which makes up 99.4% of the businesses in the state. They employ 802,607 Alabamians, which is 46.7% of the workforce, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 2024 Small Business Profile.
“Every purchase matters,” Gov. Ivey said. “Shopping local supports Alabama’s hardworking families, sustains jobs and fuels the workforce that keeps our communities growing. We want to keep our local businesses thriving here at home and on the world stage.”
The news release said Alabama’s small businesses span from the retail trade industry to construction to professional services and more.