National Small Business Week ideas to build buzz

By Michelle Banks

Small businesses are a vital part of the U.S. economy. There are more than 33 million small businesses nationwide opens in new window, amounting to 99.9% of all American businesses. What is Small Business Week? The critical contributions of these endeavors—and the entrepreneurs behind them—are celebrated during U.S. Business Administration’s National Small Business Week, which returns May 4-10. Want to build some buzz during this special occasion? These small business week ideas can help draw a crowd and celebrate entrepreneurs.

Plan a week of promotions

National Small Business Week is a seven-day occasion—and that means seven days to celebrate. Kick off each one with a different promotion. On May 4, offer a buy-one, get-one deal on a popular product or service. The next day, give new or current members of your customer loyalty program a discount—plus a free beanie, cotton tote or pint glass with a minimum purchase. On day three, feature a tag-a-friend social media challenge where participants are entered into a drawing for swag, like hoodies, fleece blankets or outdoor chairs. There are endless options!

Imprint your promotional schedule on bookmarks that can be handed out in April to build hype. Share daily promotions on social media, in newsletters and at your business. Give small rewards, like bandanas or stickers, to those who help spread the word by sharing your posts.

Partner with another small business

About 14% of small businesses opens in new window have no employees. Going above and beyond to celebrate National Small Business Week as a one-person endeavor could be a challenge, but there can be strength in numbers. Partner with a like-minded small business to cross-promote.

A retail store and restaurant might team up. A purchase at one can unlock a discount at the other. A token or bracelet can be the ticket to redeem their incentive. Bring other promotional partners into the mix and create a passport or bingo card. When customers make a purchase at participating businesses, they earn stamps which can be redeemed for a football, bucket hat or neon fanny pack.

Collaborate with other entrepreneurs on gift baskets to be raffled off at the end of the week. Include co-branded small business giveaways, like food containers, a cutting board and an apron. Or a pet treat carrier, pet bowl and tennis ball.

Host a special event 

Small Business Week provides the perfect opportunity to host an open house or similar event. Plan product or service demonstrations or workshops to draw people in. For example, a tech company might show off the latest line of products and offer patrons hands-on experiences. Or a grocery store might invite a representative from an up-and-coming vendor to provide samples of new products.

Promote your event in your company’s newsletter or email blasts. Let customers know if they stop in, they get a free can cooler, beach towel or grow kit. If your event requires advance registration, offer discounts or branded tumblers to the early birds. Save time on your event day and prepare gift bags in advance for the lucky customers.

Plan an after-hours VIP night for loyalty program members. Provide early access to sales, a discount coupon, refreshments and snacks. A branded stadium cup can hold their beverage and serve as a take-home gift. Hold a raffle or auction to add to the appeal. A limited edition baseball tee that designates a 15% discount for a calendar year is sure to be a coveted prize.

Small business promotion ideas can build momentum

National Small Business Week is an opportunity to generate excitement that continues beyond the occasion. Find inspiration from these small business week ideas, showcase what makes your business special, and make 2025 the best year yet for your brand.

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