This week, support local businesses

Week celebrates impact, importance of small businesses

Small businesses are the dynamic sparks that power the engine of Yuma’s economy.

Each time we spend dollars with a small business, those dollars return to our community, in taxes, paychecks, charitable donations and shopping experiences.

This week is National Small Business Week, which highlights the impact of entrepreneurs and small business owners across America.

The U.S. Small Business Administration notes, “Every day, (entrepreneurs are) working to grow small businesses, create 21st century jobs, drive innovation, and increase America’s global competitiveness.”

The agency notes that more than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create about two out of every three new jobs in the United States each year.

Small businesses are about innovation, meeting unmet needs in a community, and bringing dreams to fruition.

And in Yuma, we have countless small businesses that define our community, from plumbers and beauty salons to restaurants and bars.

Small niche stores across Yuma County meet needs that wouldn’t otherwise be met here.

We might look to the internet or newspaper ads to find a cat grooming service, but that cat groomer? He’s a local small business owner.

And if one wants to have an electrician come to one’s home, one calls a local small business.

If one wants to take a yoga or fitness class, one turns to a small business.

Looking for an unusual or unique gift that is representative of Yuma? One turns to a small business.

Yuma is home to an eclectic, amazing mix of artisans and small businesses to suit a variety of needs and wants.

And local small businesses offer more than just services and goods. Those business owners are also members of the community, and they care about Yuma. We see them at events and fundraisers, working to make Yuma a better place.

This week, have a pint of beer, purchase a piece of local art, or pick up a new shirt, and give your local small businesses a special thanks for all they do.

DO YOU AGREE WITH THIS OR NOT? You can write a letter to the editor or comment on this editorial online at yumasun.com