Celebrate National Small Business Week May 4-8, 2015

The U.S. Small Business Administration recognizes National Small Business Week May 4-8, 2015.

Across the nation and in Louisiana, small businesses have a huge impact on the economy.  The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI) reports there are more than 424,000 businesses in Louisiana, employing more than 892,000 people.  Small businesses make up more than 97 percent of Louisiana's employers, providing more than half of the state's private workforce in 2012.

The Small Business Administration reports most of the employment from small businesses come from firms with 20-499 employees.  Most of Louisiana's small businesses are very small as approximately 80 percent of all businesses have no employees and most employers have fewer than 20 employees.

The West Monroe-West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce applauds these small businesses for their hard work and dedication and the value they bring to our local economy.  Small businesses create jobs for our residents, and sales tax generated by these businesses help fund schools, parks, roadways and other amenities that keep our community strong and healthy.

The WMWO Chamber has signs posted at small businesses in West Monroe this week reminding the public to support small business and shop local.  To learn more about the impact small businesses have in this country, please visit www.sba.gov.