Highlighting tools for small business retailers this National Small Business Week

The first week of May marks National Small Business Week, a time to acknowledge the important role small businesses play in our communities and how they drive our economy forward. 

For the retail industry, this week is especially important as the overwhelming majority (98%) of retailers are small businesses employing fewer than 50 employees. Nationwide, there are roughly 4 million small retail establishments. They are also a significant driver of employment — 40% of retail jobs are with small businesses. 

As the voice of retail, NRF is proud to champion small businesses and provide tools, insights and connections to help them succeed. That’s why we launched the Small Retail Business Hub, which brings together expert insights, timely resources and a community of business leaders to provide year-round support to small businesses who are the backbone of the retail industry. 

Small Retail Business Spotlight 

A key feature of the Hub is the NRF Small Retail Business Spotlight, a monthly feature spotlighting exceptional small retailers who are innovating, inspiring and making a difference in their communities. Each feature dives into the entrepreneurial journey of the small business as well as challenges and lessons for other small businesses. 

“People often see the wins, but they don’t see the years of blood, sweat and tears behind them,” says March’s featured business owner Jess Berger of Bundle x Joy. “Running a small business means constantly learning, pivoting and finding creative ways to keep pushing forward, even when the hard decisions become the right ones.”  

See all spotlighted businesses and nominate your favorite small business for a chance to be featured. 

Advocacy resources 

Small businesses can make a big impact and bring unique perspectives to how government decisions affect local economies and American families. NRF knows small businesses are busy running their businesses and serving their customers. Keeping up with Washington shouldn’t be another full-time job. 

The Advocacy for Small Retail Businesses landing page offers resources to elevate small retail businesses in policy debates that impact their businesses and customers’ lives on issues like excessive credit card swipe fees, tariffs and more. There are also resources on how to directly connect with legislators in-person through the NRF Store Tour program. 

Five to Thrive series 

Every minute matters when you’re running a small business. NRF’s Five to Thrive series provides quick, actionable insights for small businesses on a wide variety of key topics.  Each installment features insights from NRF experts and industry leaders with actionable strategies to implement right away. Topics include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, loss prevention and more. 

This Small Business Week, NRF is proud to support the small businesses that move our country forward. Learn more about the NRF Small Retail Business Hub. Together, we can empower small retailers to thrive and shape the future of the industry.