For more than 60 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has recognized the vital role of America’s small businesses during National Small Business Week—and the Temple Chamber of Commerce is proud to join in honoring the ingenuity, hard work, and resilience of our local entrepreneurs.

Small businesses make up over 99% of all businesses in Texas and form the backbone of our local economy. Their impact reaches beyond job creation—they boost city revenues, drive civic engagement, and donate generously to community causes. Simply put, small businesses make Temple a better place to live, work, and grow.
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Join us in celebrating their lasting contributions this week and every week!

Support Local. Think Temple First.
Explore the incredible variety of small businesses right here in our community. Whether you’re looking for a service, product, or a new favorite spot, start with our Chamber Member Directory. Every local purchase makes a big impact.

Browse the Directory & Shop Local!

National Small Business Week comes to an end tomorrow on May 4. The Temple Chamber of Commerce was excited to join the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in honoring and celebrating our local small businesses alongside the nation’s 33 million small businesses!
 
Small business owners and entrepreneurs form the backbone of our econ­omy. According to the Texas Small Business Profile published by the SBA, in Texas alone, small businesses (those employing 100 or fewer) make up over 99% of all businesses in the state.
 
We invite you to join us in celebrating and recognizing the positive and invaluable contributions of Temple area small businesses and entrepreneurs, not just this week but throughout the year. 
 
Their impact is monumental. From job creation to enhancing city revenues and championing civic causes and initiatives, they enrich our community’s vitality. Research from the National Philanthropic Trust and Charities Aid Foundation indicates that small businesses donate 250% more than larger businesses to nonprofits and community causes per employee.
 
Small businesses make our community a vibrant place to live and work. The small businesses and entrepreneurs of Central Texas are one of the driving factors that our region is a prime business destination in Texas. 
 
We were fortunate to collaborate with regional Chambers of Commerce - Belton, Salado, Killeen, Jarrell, Lampasas, Copperas Cove, Round Rock, Waco, and Georgetown – as well as the SCORE Austin Chapter to have a Small Busi­ness Seminar on Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Bell County on Wednesday, May 1, during National Small Business Week. 
 
The seminar provided a unique platform for small business owners, budding entrepreneurs, and members to learn more about the transformative potential of Generative AI in enhancing business operations. Jessica Scanlon with Round Rock-based Hot Dog Marketing led the discussion. She introduced the concept of Generative AI, shared versatile uses of AI in small businesses, and demonstrated tactical ways to use a Generative AI tool, ChatGPT.
 
The Temple Chamber extends gratitude and admiration to our vibrant small business community that enriches Central Texas and is here to support and empower them as they thrive in Central Texas.

​Imagine a crisp December night in Temple — streets adorned with twinkling lights; the air filled with festive tunes. In the heart of our community, a local shop buzzes with holiday joy. The bell above the door jingles as customers step into a world of warmth and unique treasures. Each gift chosen becomes a brushstroke in our community's vibrant story, a tale of resilience and unity. This holiday season, as you shop locally, you're not just buying gifts; you're becoming a part of our magical, hometown story.
 
As we approach the holiday season, the significance of Shop Local becomes even more pronounced. Choosing to spend money at local stores and services directly invests in our community, contributing to its growth and prosperity.
 
According to the Small Business Association, when you spend $100 at a local store, approximately $68 stays in the community, compared to $43 when spent at a national chain. Local business owners also create jobs, support families, and contribute more to local causes. Small businesses donate 250 percent more than larger businesses, showcasing their commitment to community support.
 
Beyond economic benefits, shopping local offers personalized service, unique products, and helps maintain the distinctive character of the greater Temple area and small businesses.
 
This holiday season, join the movement to Shop Local! According to the Nerdwallet 2023 Holiday Shopping Report, over a quarter of 2023 holiday shoppers (27%) plan to shop more at local and small businesses to support their community.
 
Holiday sales are a crucial time for retailers, accounting for as much as 30% of their annual sales, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF). Projected retail holiday sales for 2023 are expected to increase between 3%-4%, continuing a trend of annual growth since 2009. Despite a slower growth rate compared to recent years, this increase aligns with pre-pandemic levels, with online sales expected to rise between 7%-9%.
 
Consumer behavior post-COVID-19 continues to shift, emphasizing the importance of supporting local stores. Individual spending is projected to be slightly higher this year, with an expected consumer average of $875 on holiday gifts, décor, and other items, according to NRF’s latest holiday survey.
 
Shopping is not just about the thrill of discovery; it's an investment in our community.
 
Let the joy of shopping become a collective celebration of our community's spirit and uniqueness this holiday season and beyond. Discover the hidden gems for shopping, enjoyment, and exploration in the greater Temple area by exploring the Temple Chamber's online Business Directory at bit.ly/ThinkTempleFirst.