Shop Small: Support Small Businesses in Your Community on Nov. 24

Sandwiched between Black Friday and Cyber Monday is Small Business Saturday. It's a day to patronize and support the locally owned small businesses in your community.

Hosted by American Express and sponsored by FedEx, Clear Channel and many other corporate supporters, public officials and advocacy groups, the third annual Small Business Saturday will be held Nov. 24, to help small businesses generate exposure and, well, business during the biggest shopping season of the year. Supporting these businesses invigorates the economy and the community. Last year, more than 100 million people pledged to "Shop Small," by visiting brick-and-mortar shops in their neighborhoods, and American Express estimates this year's turnout will be even greater.

Business owners are encouraged to offer specials and sales on their services, wares and merchandise on Small Business Saturday, so as a consumer, it's a great day to get a jump on your holiday shopping. Click here to locate Small Business Saturday participating merchants in your community.

As an extra incentive, register your American Express card and use that card to make a purchase of $25 or more at a small business on Small Business Saturday, and you’ll receive a one-time $25 statement credit.

Business owners can register for Small Business Saturday, and receive free marketing tools like banners, logos, signage, social media and e-mail templates, free personalized advertisements to be featured in geo-targed online advertising driving traffic to their business' Facebook pages, as well as in Small Business Saturday media plan. FedEx will professionally print two 11 inch by 17 inch pieces of signage for Small Business Saturday businesses.

Is your small business participating in Small Business Saturday? Do you have specials to offer or a big sale to promote? Please let us, and your fellow Patch readers, know by posting below in the comments section.