ELLSWORTH — The Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce kicked off Small Business Season in Ellsworth on Nov. 1.

The campaign, which runs through Dec. 31, supports small businesses and educates shoppers about the importance of small and local businesses to our economy. Many small businesses depend on the revenue generated during the last quarter to turn a profit for the year. The Ellsworth Chamber is encouraging consumers to “Think Small & Local” and earmark part of their holiday spending in support of local small business.

Small businesses are a critical component of Wisconsin's economy. Wisconsin's small businesses account for over 97% of all businesses in the state, employing nearly 1 million people. 49% of Wisconsin’s employed work for small businesses.

Local businesses also contribute to quality of life, particularly in small communities like Ellsworth. Studies show that small businesses reinvest in the local economy at a higher rate than chain businesses do. When people spend their dollars locally, more money stays local. On average, for every $100 spent locally, $68 stays in the local economy.

“If you think about it, it’s small businesses who are always coming to the rescue! Small businesses are owned by our friends and neighbors. They donate to youth activities, provide support to our nonprofits, and make community events and projects happen with their sponsorships,” said Kim Beebe, Ellsworth Chamber Executive Director. “Small Business Season is a way to help our residents gain an appreciation for how their spending affects our area and quality of life.”

Small Business Season is also an acknowledgement that Ellsworth will support their small business community. To serve the community, small businesses work hard all year long to overcome rising costs, fears of inflation, hiring challenges, and so much more.

"Small Business Season and shopping local means a strong and sustainable future for businesses like mine," said Janelle Lacy, owner of Wild Arrow Boutique. “Having the community’s support is what motivates us to continue to overcome business challenges, adapt, and deliver the quality products and services that Ellsworth deserves.”

At the November meeting of the Ellsworth Village Board Board President Becky Beissel presented a proclamation to the Ellsworth Chamber and small business community in acknowledgement of their contributions to Ellsworth’s economy.

“Our small businesses help give Ellsworth our uniqueness,” said Beissel. “As we support our local entrepreneurs this season, let’s remember that we are not just shopping; we are investing in the heart of Ellsworth and ensuring the vibrancy and success of our community.”

Ellsworth’s small businesses are giving locals many ways to engage with them during Small Business Season. The Fall Uptown Stroll taking place this Saturday, Nov. 11, is one event that is bringing several west end businesses together to offer customers sipping, shopping, snacking, and prizes. Shoppers can pick up a Stroll Card at any participating business and after collecting 10 stamps receive an entry to win an Uptown Basket filled with gift cards and goodies from each business.

In addition to events, Small Business Season is also a time for small and local businesses to show gratitude to the customers and community who have supported them throughout the year. One example is Steph Rauzi, owner of Chef Steph’s and her Holiday Food Drive. When customers donate a turkey or ham this holiday season, they receive one dozen of her popular take & bake cinnamon rolls.

“We’re still in our first year of business in the downtown and have faced our share of challenges. We are so grateful to the community for their support this year and sharing that support with the Ellsworth Food Pantry is the best way I could think of to show our gratitude,” Rauzi said.

Throughout Small Business Season, the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce is challenging everyone in the area to explore Ellsworth’s varied retail options, dining establishments, personal service providers, and local artisans, and support these local businesses this holiday season.

About Small Business Season

Small Business Season™ is a free global marketing campaign created to help share the message and educate on the importance of supporting not just a local business, but our neighbors and friends. Small businesses support our community by creating jobs as well as donating to our non-profits, our youth organizations, and our local events. Together, let’s help them thrive!

About the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce

The Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce serves the needs of their membership and the business community by promoting Ellsworth through economic, industrial, professional, cultural, educational, and civic initiatives.

Submitted by Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce