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Harley Tennant, Alaska SBDC Communications Manager
Imagine an Alaska where every dollar you spend fuels a neighbor’s dream, builds local jobs and strengthens community bonds. This vision becomes a reality when we shop small—especially on Small Business Saturday.
With over 99% of Alaskan businesses classified as small, our local entrepreneurs don’t just operate storefronts; they shape our communities. This November 30, join us for Small Business Saturday, a chance to celebrate Alaska’s small businesses and their year-round contributions to our economy and way of life.
Why Small Business Saturday Matters in Alaska Small Business Saturday, held annually after Thanksgiving, champions the small businesses that make our communities unique. Supporting local shops also has a powerful economic impact: 63% of every dollar spent locally stays within Alaska, compared to just 22% when spent at national chains. This means more resources flowing through our economy, more local jobs, and stronger community investment (BuyAlaska.com).
But Small Business Saturday isn’t just about economics; it’s about resilience. Our small businesses face unique challenges, from workforce shortages to high logistics costs. Yet they remain committed to serving their neighbors. Supporting them means investing in Alaska’s resilience and sustainability.
"As a small business owner, I understand fully that owning a business here in Alaska means relying heavily on your community for support, but also trying your best to serve that same community in return. When there is a combined effort to recognize buying local on Small Business Saturday and the holiday season coming up, it helps us businesses better serve the community in a great number of ways—more products and services available, higher quality or expanded options, and more local jobs, to just name a few."
— Victoria Hofmann, Owner, Divots Golf in Anchorage
Her words highlight the real-world benefits of initiatives like Small Business Saturday and year-round support—not just for businesses, but for the communities they enrich.
The Ripple Effect of Shopping Local: When Alaskans shop locally, it sets off a powerful ripple effect. Money spent here circulates within our communities, funding local wages, supplies, and services, and bolstering job growth.
● Local businesses spend 19% of their revenue on wages and benefits, nearly double the 10% spent by non-local businesses.
● Every dollar spent locally grows Alaska’s job market four times faster than spending out of state.
If every Alaskan household shifted just $20 of weekly spending to local businesses, we’d see an additional $103 million in revenue, supporting nearly 6,000 jobs and adding $308 million to Alaska’s GDP. This simple change would generate an extra $215 million in wages for workers across the state (BuyAlaska.com).
Beyond the Economic Impact Small businesses also contribute to our communities in ways big and small, contributing to local causes at four times the rate of non-local businesses. Every dollar you spend locally helps fund programs that support Alaskans, from youth development initiatives to food security efforts. By shopping small, you’re not just purchasing a product—you’re investing in the future of our communities.
Local businesses also offer unique products, services, and experiences that reflect the culture and creativity of Alaska. Whether it’s handcrafted goods, local cuisine, or unforgettable adventures, shopping small means celebrating what makes our state special.
How to Make the Most of Small Business Saturday
1. Join the BuyAlaska Directory Today: If you’re a business owner, sign up for the free BuyAlaska Directory at BuyAlaska.com to connect with local shoppers and other businesses across the state.
2. Support Local First: Support nearby retailers, dine at local restaurants, and explore neighborhood vendors and events. Discover gift ideas in the BuyAlaska Holiday Gift Guide at BuyAlaska.com/Gift-Guide, featuring Alaskan-made products and services.
3. Spread the Word: Use social media to showcase your favorite small businesses. Share photos, tag local spots, and use hashtags like #BuyAlaska and #ShopSmall to inspire others. Leave reviews and pass along referrals—it all makes a positive difference.
4. Attend Community Events: Many businesses hold or attend special events, pop-ups, or promotions on Small Business Saturday and through the holiday season. Participating in these events is a great way to engage with your community while supporting local entrepreneurs.
Why Shopping Local Matters: All Year While Small Business Saturday sparks the holiday season, the benefits of shopping locally extend year-round. Each purchase from a small business supports Alaska’s economy, sustains local jobs, and nurtures our unique culture.
At the Alaska SBDC and through the BuyAlaska Program, we’re dedicated to empowering small businesses and strengthening our communities.
This November 30, let’s come together to celebrate the entrepreneurs who make Alaska extraordinary—and carry that spirit forward every day. For more resources and ways to get involved, visit BuyAlaska.com or AKSBDC.org. Together, we can make this Small Business Saturday unforgettable and foster a thriving Alaska year-round by looking local first where we can.
