Governor Ivey Proclaims National Small Business Week

News Summary

Alabama’s Governor Kay Ivey has proclaimed a week in May as National Small Business Week to honor the essential role of small businesses in the state. With 99.4% of all businesses classified as small, they employ nearly half of Alabama’s workforce and significantly contribute to the economy. The week aims to recognize local entrepreneurs and their impact on trade and community development. The U.S. Small Business Administration also announced the recognition of local business leaders for their contributions. This initiative highlights the state’s continued commitment to supporting small businesses.

Alabama’s Governor Declares National Small Business Week

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has officially proclaimed the week from May 4 to May 11, 2025, as National Small Business Week in the state. This week-long observance is aimed at recognizing the vital role that small businesses play in sustaining Alabama’s economy and fostering job creation.

The proclamation highlights that small businesses are crucial to the state’s economic health, which Governor Ivey describes as the “engine that keeps Alabama moving forward.” Emphasizing their significance, the proclamation notes that these enterprises not only contribute to local economies but also strengthen community ties.

According to the proclamation, approximately 99.4 percent of all businesses in Alabama are classified as small businesses. Collectively, they employ 46.7 percent of the private sector workforce in the state, showcasing their importance as a major employment source. Over the past two and a half decades, there has been nearly a 10 percent increase in employment within small firms.

Impact on Trade and Economy

In addition to employing a significant portion of the workforce, small businesses in Alabama contribute greatly to international trade. Each year, these firms export more than $4.4 billion in goods, highlighting their role in the broader economic landscape of the state.

The proclamation also acknowledges President Trump’s leadership in creating what has been termed a “Golden Age” for small businesses in Alabama. This assertion underscores the belief that supportive policies at the federal level have positively impacted local enterprises.

Recognition of Local Business Leaders

As part of the proclamation, the U.S. Small Business Administration has recognized Kimberly and Larry Lewis, the owners of PROJECTXYZ, INC., as Alabama’s 2025 Small Business Persons of the Year. This recognition is part of a broader initiative to honor small business leaders who have made significant contributions to their communities and the economy.

In total, there are over 449,000 small businesses in Alabama, each playing a unique role in the state’s economic framework. The Alabama Small Business Development Center network was also noted for its efforts in providing business advising and resources throughout the state, supporting the growth of small enterprises.

Community Impact

The proclamation reaffirms Alabama’s commitment to fostering the growth of small businesses and enhancing the state’s economic development. As stated by Rosemary Elebash, the Alabama State Director of the National Federation of Independent Business, small businesses are instrumental in strengthening communities across Alabama, from one end of the state to the other.

The observance of National Small Business Week serves as a reminder of the contributions made by small businesses to the economic vitality and community fabric of Alabama. By recognizing both the achievements and challenges faced by these businesses, the state aims to bolster support for their continued success.

The upcoming National Small Business Week promises to highlight the importance of these enterprises and inspire potential entrepreneurs in Alabama.