Skip to content

Report Shows Impact of Small Business on Local Economies

Report Shows Impact of Small Business on Local Economies

December 2, 2024

Alabama News

Research the contributions local businesses make to their communities

New research from the NFIB Research Center underscores the vital role small businesses play in their communities.

State-specific data is unavailable, but NFIB State Director Rosemary Elebash said the report highlights Main Street’s impact on local economies.

“Small businesses are more than just the backbone of our economy—they’re the heart of our communities,” Elebash said. “Small business owners give back in so many ways, from donating their time and resources to strengthening local trust and loyalty.”

According to the 2024 Small Businesses’ Contribution to the Community report:

  • About 76% of small business owners volunteered their time for civic groups, charities, youth sports programs, schools, religious organizations, or similar activities in the past year.
  • Financial support was the most common way small businesses helped their communities. Ninety percent of small business owners donated money to local groups, charities, youth sports, schools, or religious organizations in the past year.
  • Sixty-three percent of small business owners made in-kind contributions, such as donating meeting spaces, excess inventory, or auction items to raise money for causes.

The report focuses on NFIB members’ community involvement and provides a nationwide view of how small businesses contribute to local communities. Most NFIB members employ between one and nine people and report yearly sales of about $500,000.

“When you shop local, you’re investing in businesses that give back and make our neighborhoods stronger,” Elebash said. “Supporting small businesses isn’t just good for the economy; it’s good for the community.”

Click here to read the full report.

Get to know NFIB

NFIB is a member-driven organization advocating on behalf of small and independent businesses nationwide.

Receive our newsletter and email notification
Knowledge is power. Let us help you stay informed with breaking legislative news, regulatory updates, business tips, and more.

Related Articles

September 11, 2025
NFIB Informs House Committee on the State of Small Business
State Director Amanda Fisher presented before committee members
Read More
Handsome carftsman working in a work shop.
September 11, 2025
NFIB Minnesota Reacts to August Optimism Report Showing More Im…
NFIB Wisconsin State Director Luke Bacher reacts to Small Business Optimism…
Read More
Small business. Male florist unfocused in flower shop. Floral design studio, making decorations and arrangements. Flowers delivery, creating order
September 11, 2025
NFIB South Dakota Reacts to August Optimism Report Showing More…
NFIB South Dakota State Director Jason Glodt reacts to Small Business Optim…
Read More
A female Carpenter working at a table wearing glasses.
September 10, 2025
NFIB Nebraska Reacts to August Optimism Report Showing More Imp…
NFIB Nebraska State Director Ryan McIntosh reacts to Small Business Optimis…
Read More

© 2001 - 2025 National Federation of Independent Business. All Rights Reserved. Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy | Accessibility