This week is National Small Business Week, which marks a time to acknowledge and celebrate the difference-makers in our economy, which are small businesses. It’s a week to encourage consumers to give a local business a try – or to order online from a small, Internet-based business- and support local entrepreneurs and business leaders in your own community.

Now the question is, will you support your favorite small business? It could be your local cupcake shop, neighborhood deli or even your friendly accountant — all local entrepreneurs fueling not only their local economies, but our national economy as well. One of the things they all have in common is that they are part of a growing movement in America called the small business community. With every dollar you invest in a local, small business, the true entrepreneurial spirit of America continues to thrive. According to the Small Business Administration, more than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create about two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year. Just by supporting your favorite small business this week, you will make a big difference, because every day, America’s small businesses are working to create 21st century jobs, drive innovation and increase America’s global competitiveness.