{"id":11892,"date":"2026-04-27T10:52:21","date_gmt":"2026-04-27T17:52:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/?p=11892"},"modified":"2026-05-18T20:56:03","modified_gmt":"2026-05-18T12:56:03","slug":"prepare-for-small-business-week","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/prepare-for-small-business-week\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Prepare for National Small Business Week (2026)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

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Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs)<\/a> are the backbone of our economy. They take \u200ccentre stage at National Small Business Week in May, every year. It’s a beautiful tradition that has been going strong for over 60 years, celebrating the innovation and passion of America’s small businesses. If you’re an SMB owner, this is your golden ticket to connecting with your community, learning from other entrepreneurs and grabbing media and public interest to share your story and products.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Preparing for this prime opportunity is super important and we are here to help. Let’s explore how to prepare for Small Business Week \u2014 spoiler alert: with a little help from artificial intelligence (AI)<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is National Small Business Week?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

National Small Business Week\u279a<\/a>, established in 1963, is hosted by the Small Business Administration (SBA)\u279a<\/a>\u00a0 and is celebrated during the first week of May each year. The week typically includes activities such as networking opportunities, educational sessions and award ceremonies to honour outstanding small businesses. It’s a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to learn, connect and gain valuable insights to help their businesses thrive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With 33.2 million SMBs accounting for 99.9% of all businesses in the U.S.\u279a<\/a>, SMBs contribute significantly to economic growth. Running an SMB and contributing to the community is the true essence of the American Dream, which believes in freedom and opportunities through perseverance. Small Business Week celebrates this very spirit, making it a must-attend event for SMBs<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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(Source: U.S. Small Business Administration<\/a>)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Key activities at Small Business Week<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The week is a mix of events and festivities, including workshops, conferences, webinars and award ceremonies. You can network with other entrepreneurs, attend panel sessions and interact with diverse business leaders, industry experts and government officials. Plus, you’ll get access to various resources and support groups to help you to understand the market landscape, technology advancements and growth strategies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The SBA also co-hosts a two-day Virtual Summit<\/a>, a non-profit organisation that offers free business mentorship and consulting services. The summit offers networking opportunities, free resources and expert insights through interactive webinars and exhibit booths. Think of it as a preview of what\u2019s to come to help you to plan your week. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Big benefits for SMBs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Small Business Week emphasises the impact SMBs from states across the nation create yearly. The goal is simple: encouraging SMBs to discover growth opportunities and connect with potential investors and partners. It rewards their hard work through learning opportunities and awards\u279a<\/a>. Besides, it helps solo founders<\/a> break out of isolation by connecting them with fellow business owners. This creates a supportive community of like-minded people. And, ultimately it helps you to make money.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some more benefits for SMBs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n