Economic Development

Governor Hochul Encourages New Yorkers to "Think Big, Shop Small!" During the Holiday Shopping Season

Governor Kathy Hochul today encouraged New Yorkers to support local businesses during the holiday shopping season by highlighting the critical role New York's small businesses play in building vibrant communities across the state. On November 30, New York will mark Small Business Saturday to celebrate the significant impact small businesses have on local economies across the state. In honor of the day. Governor Hochul is taking the opportunity to emphasize how choosing local retailers, restaurants and service providers creates a ripple effect of economic growth throughout New York's communities.

"Every purchase at a local shop or family-owned business ripples through our neighborhoods, creating jobs and opportunities that strengthen the fabric of our communities," Governor Hochul said. "As the daughter of a small business owner, I witnessed firsthand how these enterprises serve as anchors of community life. This holiday season and on Small Business Saturday, I encourage New Yorkers to invest in their communities by shopping local - because when our small businesses thrive, all of New York thrives."

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Every thriving Main Street tells a story of small business success. By choosing to shop local, we empower these businesses to flourish, ensuring our neighborhoods remain vibrant and resilient. These enterprises do more than drive our economy - they create first jobs for young people, spark innovation in every sector, and preserve the distinctive character of our communities. Through targeted investments and strategic support, Empire State Development is working to ensure New York remains the premier destination for entrepreneurs to launch, grow, and realize their dreams."

New York State Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, "Small businesses are a vital part of New York State's economic ecosystem. From workforce recruitment to utilizing tax credits and incentives, the Department of Labor offers a trove of resources to help these businesses thrive in the global economy. I encourage New Yorkers to show their support by shopping at any of the thousands of small businesses statewide this holiday season and beyond."

Department of Taxation and Finance Acting Commissioner Amanda Hiller said, "We are grateful for the contributions of small business owners not only this weekend, but throughout the year. It's the most dynamic sector of our economy - a sector that New York State supports with a wide array of tax credits and incentives."

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, "Farmers and small businesses across New York State work hard year-round to create delicious foods, thoughtful gift products, and tasty beverages to fit any occasion. When New Yorkers shop locally throughout this holiday season, and on Small Business Saturday, they're not only investing in top-notch products made by hard-working people, but they're also supporting the agricultural economy."

Small Business Saturday celebrates the innovation and dedication of small business owners, encouraging New Yorkers to support local shops and services throughout the bustling holiday season. Small businesses - defined as those with fewer than 100 employees - represent 98 percent of all businesses in the state, employing nearly 40 percent of the private-sector workforce. In the retail sector alone, New York is home to more than 71,000 stores, with nearly 79 percent - approximately 55,000 - being independent local retailers. These enterprises are vital economic engines, with retail establishments contributing $40.1 billion in wages in 2023 and projected to generate $507 billion in sales in 2024, providing over $20.3 billion in State sales tax revenue. Of New York's small businesses, about 8.1 percent are retailers, forming an essential part of our local economies as they drive community growth, foster neighborhood identity, and keep billions of dollars circulating within our communities.

Under Governor Hochul's leadership, New York State continues to prioritize the growth and prosperity of small businesses through a diverse array of initiatives and programs. Since taking office, the Governor has launched a number of programs dedicated to small businesses, committing hundreds of millions through Empire State Development to foster entrepreneurship, stimulate innovation, and ensure that small businesses have the support they need to succeed.

Empire State Development powers small business growth through strategic investments and innovative support programs that address today's market challenges. Through the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), ESD has committed nearly $100 million to help entrepreneurs access capital and expand their operations. New York's network of 26 Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers offers vital technical support and training across the state. Additionally, New York State has streamlined access to resources through its digital Business Express platform, connecting entrepreneurs with millions in available funding opportunities, tax incentives, and specialized assistance programs designed to foster innovation and accelerate growth in every region of the state.

The New York State Department of Labor offers a multitude of no-cost services for businesses of all sizes, including thousands of job postings on the NYSDOL website, access to tens of thousands of qualified candidates in our talent pool, career fairs and customized recruitments, and Human Resources consultation services. More than 25,000 businesses each year work with NYSDOL to list their jobs, find the right candidates, access hiring and training incentives, obtain business tax credits and incentives, get help with one-on-one labor law and safety and health compliance services, and find layoff aversion resources. For more information, visit: www.labor.ny.gov/business.

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets supports New York's agricultural industry, which boasts nearly 32,000 farms, 700 farmers' markets and farm stands, and thousands of small agribusinesses. The Department supports farms and food and beverage businesses by providing critical services that enhance their business and increase productivity, profitability, and competitiveness. It also provides direct promotional opportunities through initiatives like the NYS Grown & Certified program, which markets local growers and producers participating in safe food handling and environmental sustainability programs, helping them better compete in the marketplace.

Additionally, the Taste NY program showcases New York farmers and food and beverage businesses at large public events and at more than 70 Taste NY locations across the State, including the State's Welcome Centers, where New Yorkers can find a gift for everyone on their holiday shopping list. The Taste NY locations statewide also feature a variety of gift items and gift sets perfect for the holidays. The markets are stocked with local products made and produced by New York farms and food and beverage producers unique to the region the Welcome Center is located in. From local, gourmet food items and locally produced craft beverages to novelty items and even bath and beauty products, gifts at stores range in size and price and can be customized. Customers may reach out to their closest local Taste NY location for specific offerings and details. Visit Taste.NY.gov to find your local Welcome Center and Taste NY Market.

The online marketplace, ShopTasteNY, offers opportunities to shop for New York agricultural products and gifts from the comfort of home. Newly revamped, ShopTasteNY.com offers a variety of products from across New York, from honey and jams to goat milk soaps, reflecting each region's offerings. Participating partners and products are featured on a rotating basis to ensure the diversity of the product line and regional representation. Starting Black Friday, November 29 through Cyber Monday, December 2, customers can get 30 percent off all products. In addition, from December 3 through December 25, shoppers will receive 25 percent off their purchase with the Happy Holidays promotion. Please note, orders should be placed by December 15 to ensure delivery for Christmas. After Christmas, shoppers can still receive 20 percent off with the New Year New Vendors promotion, which runs from December 27 through January 4, 2025.

Ways to Support Small Businesses Every Day

• Choose Local Retailers - Opt to shop at independently owned stores in your community. Your patronage helps sustain local jobs and keeps money circulating within the local economy.
• Shop Online Locally - Many neighborhood businesses offer e-commerce options. Check if your local shops have websites or participate in digital marketplaces that facilitate local delivery or pickup.
• Buy Gift Cards - Purchasing gift cards from local businesses-whether it's a favorite eatery, boutique, or service provider-provides them with immediate support and encourages future visits.
• Explore Farmers' Markets - Even during colder months, many farmers' markets continue indoors, offering unique, locally made products. From handcrafted items to seasonal foods, it's a great way to support local producers.
• Shop Taste NY - Support New York State's farmers, producers, artisans, and craftspeople by visiting Taste NY Welcome Centers across the state or Shop TasteNY.com. Explore specially curated holiday gift baskets and unique New York-made products that showcase the best of what local businesses have to offer.
• Dine Locally - Visit or order takeout from neighborhood restaurants and cafes. Your support helps sustain these establishments and the jobs they provide.
• Spread the Word - Share your positive experiences with local businesses on social media and review platforms. Personal recommendations are invaluable for small businesses seeking to grow their customer base.
• Opt for Store Credit - If you need to return an item, consider accepting store credit instead of a refund.