CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – As Small Business Saturday approaches on November 30, new research from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) underscores the critical role small businesses play in Illinois communities and economies.
“Small businesses are integral to our communities,” said NFIB Illinois State Director Noah Finley. “This report confirms what we all know—Main Street businesses invest in their towns, neighborhoods, and schools, making life better for us all.”
The 2024 Small Businesses’ Contribution to the Community report highlights key findings about small-business involvement in local communities:
- Volunteering: Seventy-six percent of small business owners reported volunteering for civic groups, charities, schools, youth sports, religious organizations, or similar activities in the past year.
- Financial Support: Ninety percent of small businesses financially supported community groups, charities, schools, and similar organizations in the last 12 months.
- In-Kind Contributions: Sixty-three percent offered in-kind support, such as donating inventory, providing meeting spaces, or contributing auction items.
The NFIB report, based on data from its membership, reflects the national commitment of small businesses to community well-being. NFIB members typically employ between one and nine people and report average gross sales of $500,000 annually.
Finley encouraged residents to support their local Main Street businesses on Small Business Saturday and beyond, noting that these businesses are vital to the economic and social fabric of Illinois towns and cities.
For more information on Illinois small businesses and updates from NFIB, visit www.nfib.com/illinois.
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