The Kearney Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce Small Business Season!

New this year, the Chamber is launching a program to support small business. Beginning on November 1st the Chamber kicked off its marketing efforts with the 2022 Holiday Giveaway and Nonprofit Showcase. Throughout the holiday shopping season, the Chamber is encouraging consumers to “Think Small” and earmark at least part of their holiday spending in support of local small business.

The Kearney Chamber is in the relentless pursuit of a vibrant and prosperous business community. In 2019 the Board of Directors designated support of local shopping as one of its five pillars of purpose, challenging its citizens to give the local service provider the first opportunity for their business.

Kearney Chamber of Commerce’s Executive Director Stacie Bratcher shared, “Small business is the backbone of our economy. 64% of our new jobs in the US come from small business. When people spend their dollars locally, more money stays local. On average, for every $100 spent locally, $68 of that stays here.”

“By implementing Small Business Season, we hope to build on the momentum of the #ShopLocalKearney campaign and encourage people to patronize all sorts of small businesses this holiday. In addition to our wonderful retail options, there are dining establishments, personal service providers, even local artisans that need our support. Small Business Season is a way to help our residents develop a better appreciation for how their spending affects our area and quality of life.”

In addition to increased marketing efforts, the Chamber’s December 7th Membership Luncheon, sponsored by Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative, will premiere a holiday show-and-tell like ‘Oprah’s Favorite Things’ when she shares her annual roundup of perfect gifts. During the luncheon, to celebrate Small Business Season, the Chamber will spotlight participating member retailers who will feature up to three of their hottest items or things that can be purchased locally for holiday gifts. Though they won't be giving one of everything away to all attendees like Oprah, there will be door prizes!

The Chamber also reimagined the annual Holiday Giveaway to encourage all businesses to participate in its efforts to raise awareness of how supporting small business improves the quality of life for the entire community. “All businesses need one another. There’s a symbiotic relationship. But small business is the most endangered because many small businesses don’t operate with large cash reserves. When costs skyrocket, they feel it,” shared Stan Kienast co-owner of Stitch of the Time Spirit Shop.

Shannon Lykins owner of Bea’s Flowers and Gifts said, “We’re excited to be a part of Small Business Season this year. The pandemic brought attention to local businesses and what we bring to the community and Small Business Season helps us get holiday shoppers excited about the unique experiences we offer.” Bea’s Flowers and Gifts was named the Rising Star during the 2021 Business Excellence Awards and is the presenting sponsor of the 2022 Holiday Giveaway. The grand prize drawing will be held Thursday, December 15, 2022 at Bea’s Flowers & Gifts.

The Kearney Chamber of Commerce is challenging everyone in the area to support small business this holiday season.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story