Governor Gavin Newsom marked Small Business Saturday by urging Californians to support local businesses, emphasizing their importance to the state’s economy and community identity. The annual event highlights the role of small retailers, restaurants, artisans, and service providers during the holiday season.
“Small businesses are central to California’s economic strength and cultural identity. They’re not just storefronts — they’re dreams, risks, and livelihoods. When Californians choose to shop local, we’re investing in our neighbors, in the character of our communities, and in the economic strength that makes California unique. It’s about strengthening the resilience and vibrancy of the places we call home,” Governor Newsom said.
Small businesses make up more than 99.8% of all enterprises in California and employ nearly half of the state’s workforce. Minority-owned companies account for almost 60% of these businesses statewide. These firms also contribute significantly to exports; over $70 billion worth of goods and services are shipped annually from California small businesses, representing more than 42% of all state exports.
The state government continues its commitment to supporting its 4.3 million small businesses through programs led by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA), which operates under the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. Initiatives such as SCALE (Success, Capital Access, and Leadership for Entrepreneurs) aim to help entrepreneurs—especially those from underserved backgrounds—overcome barriers related to capital access and business development. Since its inception seven years ago, SCALE has facilitated more than 84,000 jobs created, supported nearly 14,000 new business launches, and enabled over $2.9 billion in lending capital.
Another CalOSBA program is Accelerate CA, which focuses on high-growth sectors including biomanufacturing and sustainable energy while broadening founder diversity across industries like ranching and ag-tech. The initiative maintains a network of 13 hubs throughout California that offer seed grants between $25,000 and $100,000 for startups; total investments awarded surpassed $2 million in 2025.
In recognition of Small Business Saturday this week—and under its slogan “Supporting Small Strengthens Us All”—CalOSBA is sharing advice from business advisors within its SCALE network on social media platforms such as Instagram and LinkedIn to help small retailers maximize opportunities during the holiday shopping period.
Residents are encouraged this weekend to visit local shops or participate in community markets as a way to support neighborhood economies throughout California.
