As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better time to celebrate the heartbeat of our community: our small businesses. From one of our amazing coffee shops to a locally-owned boutique down the street and any of our innovative businesses who donate to your causes or sponsor our sports teams, small businesses define the character and vibrancy of Westerville.

Our Chamber proudly serves over 830 businesses, with nearly 75 percent having 10 employees or less.

This year, supporting them is more important than ever. We’ve all felt the ripple effects of political and economic challenges — rising costs, uncertainty and the pressures of an ever-changing marketplace. For small businesses, these challenges aren’t abstract; they’re real, immediate and personal.

I was recently reminded of this by a business owner I’ve supported for the past decade. He shared that consistent customer support over the years has allowed him to provide opportunities for his young daughters. In his words, “Business has been so good that I’ve been able to get both of my girls onto really strong teams this year where they’re thriving.”

That’s why Small Business Saturday matters. It’s more than a day to shop locally — it’s a day to invest in the community, sustain jobs and fuel the creativity and innovation that makes Westerville unique. Every purchase, every visit and every referral helps our neighbors thrive and strengthens the local economy.

The Westerville Area Chamber is proud to serve as a bridge builder and convener for these businesses. Through advocacy, resources and connection, we help ensure small businesses aren’t just surviving — they’re positioned to thrive, grow and innovate despite challenges.

Here’s how we can all make a difference this season:

• Shop Local: Choose Westerville businesses for your holiday gifts, services and dining.
• Spread the Word: Share your favorite local businesses on social media, leave reviews and encourage friends and family to support them.
• Engage and Collaborate: Attend local events, markets and Chamber programs to strengthen your ties to our small business community.
• Support Their Voice: Engage with the Chamber and city initiatives that advocate for policies and programs that help local businesses succeed.

Small businesses are the heartbeat of Westerville, and with our support, their impact resonates far beyond the walls of their shops. This holiday season, let’s show them that we’re in this together — helping our community not just cope with change, but thrive through it.