Natural State News

With the holiday season underway, Arkansans are being encouraged to support local businesses by participating in Small Business Saturday on November 25. NFIB State Director Katie Burns spoke with Roby Brock about the origins and significance of this day dedicated to small businesses.

Burns noted that while Black Friday and Cyber Monday have long been popular shopping days, small businesses were often overlooked. "There’s always been a huge push on Black Friday, and then kind of came along Cyber Monday. Along the way, small business kind of was left out of that mix a little bit," she said. She explained that during the recession in the mid-to-late 2000s, there was a need to create a day specifically for recognizing small businesses.

Highlighting the impact of spending locally, Burns stated: "Local businesses are a much greater supporter of local communities. An average of 67 cents of every dollar collected in a local business stays in that community." She emphasized that small businesses contribute significantly more to non-profits than larger corporations due to their investment in their communities.

Addressing challenges faced by local business owners, Burns discussed NFIB's advocacy efforts at both state and national levels. "We were supportive of the Governor and her efforts to lower the income tax," she mentioned, adding that tax cuts benefit employees, improve business finances, and boost consumer spending.

Burns also praised Arkansas's approach to education and workforce development. "I think that Arkansas is doing a very good job of really looking at careers and trades and skills as well," she said. She acknowledged the importance of having qualified applicants for various jobs across different types of businesses represented by NFIB members.

The full interview with Katie Burns can be viewed online.