NFIB State Director Julia Hammond said today it’s important for people to support small, independent businesses during the last weekend before Christmas and in the coming year.

“The holiday shopping season began with Small Business Saturday, and we need to keep that momentum going,” Hammond said.

“Small business is essential to Virginia’s economy,” she said. “It’s estimated that when you shop small, 67 cents of every dollar stays in the community, helping fund schools, roads, and essential services.”

Hammond encouraged shoppers to visit local stores, dine at family-owned restaurants, and use independent service providers this weekend and whenever they can. “By supporting small businesses during the holidays and throughout the coming year, we can help them continue to keep our communities strong,” she said.