Monday marks the start of National Small Business Week (May 4-8), a week-long event put on by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in celebration of entrepreneurs and small business owners all across the country. This year’s theme will be “SBA: Dream Big, Start Small.”
Every year since 1963, SBA takes the opportunity to highlight the impact of outstanding entrepreneurs, small business owners and others from across the nation through National Small Business Week.
Not only is the U.S. Small Business Administration hosting a series of events, but many other businesses and organizations are joining in as well. This year’s events will take place in Miami, Los Angeles, San Antonio, New York City and culminating in Washington, D.C. where national winners will be recognized and awarded.
For those who can’t make in person, don’t feel left out. The SBA will be providing a live stream of all events. Here is just a sample of events taking place throughout the week:
Monday, May 4
The National Small Business Week Kickoff event takes place at Office Depot Inc. headquarters in Boca Raton, Fla. SBA Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet will be giving the keynote and Office Depot CEO Roland Smith will also address those in attendance.
Tuesday, May 5
The City of Columbia, S.C. will hold a Conference on Innovation, with keynote speakers William D. Kirkland, executive director of the University of South Carolina, Office of Economic Engagement and Louis B. Lynn, president of ENVIRO AgScience, Inc. There will be five different sessions covering various topics.
Wednesday, May 6
For those in need of financing for their small business, there is the Lending for Small Businesses event at the University of Texas at San Antonio. SBA Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet will be discussing the SBA’s financial programs.
Thursday, May 7
A networking Reception for Professional and Business Women will be held in Washington D.C. Reception chairwomen include Ana Recio Harvey, director of D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development and Kimberly Bassett, director of the D.C. Office of Women’s Policy and Initiatives.
Friday, May 8
Capping off the week is the Business Pitch Competition, hosted by The Council of Smaller Enterprises of Cleveland, Ohio. Aspiring small business owners will have a chance to win up to $20,000.
For more information and a full list of events, visit SBA’s National Small Business Week website.
