by Amanda Jarratt

Dream Big, Start Small

Every year since 1963, the President of the United States has issued a proclamation announcing National Small Business Week, which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create about two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year. Every day, they’re working to grow small businesses, create 21st century jobs, drive innovation and increase America’s global competitiveness. President Barack Obama released an official statement on the impact of small businesses. In it, he said: “America’s small businesses are the backbone of our economy. More than that, our small businesses represent what is best about America — that with hard work and ingenuity, anyone — no matter their background — can build a better future for themselves and their families.”

Small Business Administration

This year the 52nd National Small Business Week will be celebrated May 4-8, and to show our appreciation for our local entrepreneurs and small business owners, Franklin Southampton Economic Development Inc. is hosting a cookout for all of the owners/managers of brick and mortar businesses located in the City of Franklin and Southampton County. This event has been created to celebrate and show appreciation for the hard work and dedication small business owners give every day to our area. The cookout is being hosted at the request of Southampton County Board of Supervisors and Franklin City Council as a way to show that each of these organizations are here to support our local business community. This will be a wonderful event for business owners to network with other owners and also spend time with local elected leadership.

Please join us at the Southampton County fairgrounds on May 6 from 5-7 p.m. to enjoy a free catered meal. There will be great conversation to be had, music, takeaways and, as a sweet treat, homemade pound cake. In order to properly plan, please RSVP by Wednesday, April 29, by emailing acotton@franklinsouthamptonva.com or calling 562-1958. Please note the two representative maximum per business. We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating the Franklin Southampton business community.

Amanda Jarratt is the CEO and president of Franklin-Southampton Economic Development Inc. She can be reached at ajarratt@franklinsouthamptonva.com or 562-1958.