The Small Business Administration has been highlighting the important work of small businesses in the country through National Small Business Week. This year, the event will be held June 17-21.

More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and small businesses account for almost two of every three new jobs created in the United States each year. National Small Business Week is just one event to help highlight the important contribution of entrepreneurs and small business owners to local economies.

Local residents are invited to join in on the cause by celebrating local small businesses in Rhinelander. Residents are invited to make an effort to shop small during the week of June 17 and show local businesses that their contribution is valued in the community.

“Small, locally owned businesses are truly the backbone of our community and help to keep Rhinelander a vibrant, unique and thriving community,” said Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lara Reed. “For every dollar spent in the Rhinelander community, 67 cents of it stays right here and continues to get recycled, helping support our local support services, community organizations and economy.”

One local economic program to support small businesses is “I Buy Local-Rhinelander” and is sponsored by the Rhinelander Chamber and DRI. Local business owners looking to get involved in this program may call the chamber at (715) 365-7464.