Mayor of Cornelius proclaims May 17 as Small Business Week

In a recent meeting, the Cornelius Board of Commissioners proclaimed May 17 as Small Business Week, highlighting the vital role small businesses play in the local economy. Mayor Woody Washam emphasized that small businesses are the lifeblood of the community, representing a significant portion of the Chamber of Commerce's membership and contributing to the economic fabric of North Carolina.

The proclamation recognized the impressive statistics surrounding small businesses in the state, noting that they account for 99.6% of all businesses and employ approximately 1.7 million people. The mayor urged residents to support local businesses by shopping locally, reinforcing the importance of community engagement in sustaining economic growth.

During the meeting, Bill Russell from the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce shared details about the upcoming Small Business Week activities, which include a professional development seminar on artificial intelligence, a women’s networking event, and a major small business event featuring various speakers. The week promises to be filled with opportunities for small business owners to connect, learn, and celebrate their contributions to the community.

Additionally, Jim Bogle was recognized for his efforts in fostering collaboration among small businesses through the LKN Small Business Spend Network, which focuses on mutual support among local enterprises. The meeting underscored the town's commitment to nurturing its small business community through partnerships with organizations like the Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Administration.

As Small Business Week approaches, residents are encouraged to participate in the scheduled events and to continue supporting local businesses, reinforcing the community's collective effort to promote economic vitality and resilience.