According to Thryv, a leading tech company supporting small businesses, National Small Business Week 2025, running from April 28 to May 4, is an opportunity for entrepreneurs to “celebrate and appreciate the entrepreneurial spirit” while promoting their businesses, connecting with customers, and building local partnerships. Organized annually by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the week highlights the resilience, innovation, and contributions of small business owners, while encouraging participation in events like the free National Small Business Week Virtual Summit, networking conferences, and online marketing campaigns.
National Small Business Week dates back to 1963 when President John F. Kennedy established it to honor top entrepreneurs across the nation. Today, it continues to spotlight small businesses as the backbone of the economy, with events planned throughout 2025, including the Greenhouse National Small Business Week Conference and the VIP Week Conference for Women.
Thryv emphasizes that small business owners can maximize the week by sharing their entrepreneurial stories on social media, collaborating with nearby businesses, offering customer discounts, hosting community events, and using hashtags like #SmallBusinessWeek to boost visibility. “Owners of small businesses have an advantage over larger companies. They make enduring and authentic customer connections,” said Gail Goodman, former CEO of Constant Contact, as quoted by Thryv.
Several leaders cited by Thryv captured the spirit of the celebration:
“Dream big, start small, but most of all, start.” — Simon Sinek, Author and Motivational Speaker
“This week, we celebrate the heartbeat of America: small businesses. From the cozy corner cafe to the cutting-edge tech startup, these enterprises embody innovation, resilience, and the true spirit of community.” — Michael W. Long, CPA
“Two out of every three net new jobs come from small business. So we mean it when we talk about small business being the engine for the economy.” — Karen G. Mills, Senior Fellow at Harvard Business School and former SBA Administrator
Small businesses can use National Small Business Week not just as a celebration but as a growth strategy—connecting with customers, strengthening their community presence, and laying the groundwork for future success. As Thryv put it, this week is a time to honor those who have overcome the challenges of starting and sustaining a business, and to inspire even greater achievements ahead.