The Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce is joining chambers across the country in celebrating Small Business Season, Nov. 1 through Dec. 31. This year’s theme, “It’s the Thought That Counts,” encourages people to turn thoughtful intentions into meaningful support for the businesses that help make their communities special.

Small businesses are central to Wisconsin’s economy. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 2025 Wisconsin Small Business Profile, the state is home to 497,370 small businesses, representing 99.4% of all Wisconsin businesses and employing approximately 1.2 million people.

Those numbers come to life in communities like Ellsworth, where local businesses provide jobs, support schools and nonprofit organizations, sponsor community events, serve their neighbors, and contribute to the character of the community.

“Supporting a local business can begin with a purchase, but it doesn’t end there,” said Kim Beebe, Executive Director of the Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce. “An honest review, a referral, a shared social media post, or a few words of appreciation can introduce a business to a new customer and remind our business owners that their work matters.”

This year’s campaign arrives as Ellsworth continues investing in the strength and vitality of its broader business community. The recently completed East End Street and Streetscape Project is one highly visible milestone within an ongoing effort to create a more welcoming, connected, and walkable downtown.

That broader work includes continued sidewalk improvements throughout downtown, collaboration between the Chamber and Village on the Facade Improvement Program, and beautification initiatives across Ellsworth’s commercial areas. Together, these efforts help create inviting storefronts and public spaces, connect the different areas of downtown, and encourage residents and visitors to explore more of the businesses Ellsworth has to offer.

“Ellsworth’s business community is interconnected,” Beebe said. “Each investment, from streets and sidewalks to storefronts and public spaces, helps create a more welcoming community where all of our businesses can be discovered and supported. Those improvements create opportunity, and the choices people make to visit, recommend, and support our businesses give that investment life.”

Residents can also support the local economy by giving Ellsworth Bucks during the holiday season. Available for purchase 24/7 through the Chamber’s website, this community currency can be spent like cash at participating Chamber member businesses. Ellsworth Bucks allow recipients to choose their own gifts while helping keep more holiday spending close to home.

Throughout November and December, residents are encouraged to choose local options when they fit their needs and budgets; dine at area restaurants; purchase gift cards and local experiences; hire local service providers; recommend favorite businesses; share their posts; and thank the owners and employees whose work they appreciate.

“Every thoughtful action matters,” Beebe added. “Together, those choices help sustain the businesses, jobs, relationships, and gathering places that keep Ellsworth vibrant.”

For Small Business Season information, local business listings, and Ellsworth Bucks, visit www.ellsworthchamber.com.

Submitted by Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce