As we celebrate Small Business Month, it’s crucial to reflect on the profound impact that small businesses have on our community and economy. Small businesses are not just individuals’ enterprises, they are the heartbeat of Akron. The intentional choice to shop small is more than a consumer decision—it’s a commitment to sustaining the vitality and diversity of our community.    

There are more than 16,000 employers in Greater Akron alone according to U.S. Census Bureau data, and almost 80% have fewer than 20 employees. Each contributes significantly to the local economy — these businesses provide jobs, foster innovation, and create a sense of place that establishes the backbone of our community.

Nationally, small businesses account for 44% of U.S. economic  activity, underscoring their crucial role in driving economic growth and stability.

Making the individual choice to shop small has a ripple effect that benefits everyone in the region. When you spend locally, your money stays in the community longer. According to a 2022 study from American Express, approximately 68 cents of every dollar spent at a small business stays in the local economy. This local reinvestment supports public services, infrastructure, and local employment, creating a thriving, sustainable community. 

The Greater Akron Chamber is proud to support its 2,000+ small business members and the small business community by offering various products and resources that make doing business easier, and leading initiatives and events that provide unique networking opportunities. As a small business owner, we encourage you to: 

  1. Check out and register for our Small Business Event Series. These events provide valuable networking opportunities, educational resources, and platforms designed to help small business thrive. Consider attending an upcoming Small Business Resource Roundtable or Swap 25 to connect with other small business owners or access resources available to you, or even an upcoming Morning Buzz to learn about key initiatives in our region. 
  2. Utilize the Greater Akron Business Navigator.  It only takes a few minutes to input information about your business, share your pain points, and what you need to start or grow your business. Your answers will generate existing resources unique to you and your business needs in areas such as professional services, financing, hiring, strategy, technical assistance, and more. 
  3. Join the Chamber and enjoy the benefits. Members of the Greater Akron Chamber have access to competitive and cost-effective healthcare plans, a 401k Multiple Employer Plan, energy solutions, discounted drug and alcohol testing services, and access to marketing tools to elevate your business’ visibility.   

Akron would not be the same city without its quaint coffee shops, family-owned restaurants and diners, unique entertainment establishments, and local service providers.

The loss would be immeasurable, not only in economic terms, but also in the erosion of the community spirit that makes our city special. Small businesses are often the ones sponsoring local sports teams, contributing to area charities, and organizing community events. They are the threads that hold the community fabric together. 

If you aren’t a small business owner, you can still contribute to local growth! During Small Business Month and throughout the year, let’s commit to shopping small and celebrating the unique contributions of our local entrepreneurs. Join the Greater Akron Chamber in making a difference. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient Akron.   For more information on upcoming events and how to get involved, visit our website or contact us directly. Let’s make 2024 a year of unprecedented growth and support for our small business community.