Small Business Saturday Blog

First things first – what is the SmallBiz100?

In a nutshell, we choose 100 brilliant small businesses and celebrate one every day in the run up to Small Business Saturday, which takes place in December each year. It’s a great opportunity to showcase your small business and raise awareness both locally and nationally. On your allocated day, your business will be celebrated across Small Business Saturday’s social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, making it a fantastic way to make a big impact.

Outside of your allocated day, there are plenty of PR opportunities within the media. Local press love to get involved and feature local businesses which have been selected to join SmallBiz100, and Small Business Saturday will support you all the way by preparing press releases for your local papers.

When we speak to our previous SmallBiz100 participants, the one benefit which comes up time and time again is the support network which it provides. Running your own small business can be lonely at times, and it can be hard to know where to turn for help and advice from those who really know what you’re experiencing. Taking part in SmallBiz100 provides you with a fantastic community and a ready-made support network of small businesses just like yours, all at different stages of growth. You’ll get access to a private alumni Facebook group for sharing tips, asking for advice, providing support and celebrating your success.

There are also plenty of opportunities to collaborate, with businesses who have been there and done it sharing their experiences. And finally, if you prefer your networking done in person rather than online, the fabulous blue tie ball takes place every year and is open to all SmallBiz100 participants, alumni and newbies alike.

Claire from Addiscott's, who was one of the SmallBiz100 in 2018, says “I was inspired by the dedication and commitment of the Small Biz Sat team and made some fantastic connections and friendships along the way."

She adds: "If you’re thinking about applying just GO FOR IT! Being a Small Biz 100 really does make a difference and is a wonderful celebration of all that is Small but with HUGE support from your fellow 100’s and the team! From Bus Tours to Blue Ball’s there is opportunity to showcase and shine.” Claire has also written a blog about her SmallBiz100 experience - find it here.

All this and taking part is completely free! Sounds good? Applying to take part in SmallBiz100 2019 is quick and easy – just click here to register and start your journey. Already registered? Click here to apply to SmallBiz100.

Even if you feel that your business is not yet ready for SmallBiz100 or you’re not selected as part of the 100, there are still numerous benefits to getting involved.

Simply registering with Small Business Saturday can improve your business’s visibility, making you searchable via the Small Business Saturday app and via the business finder on the Small Business Saturday website, which is regularly promoted across social media. It’s also a great place to promote special offers, and to pick up tips and advice from other small businesses via our blog.