News Summary
Chattanooga is set to honor local entrepreneurs during its annual Small Business Week, running from May 4 to May 10. The Chattanooga Tourism Co. is collaborating with local businesses to offer exclusive deals and events. Participating establishments, like Rêve Coffee and Books and The Rustic House, will feature special discounts and engaging activities. Amid the celebrations, local business owners are voicing concerns regarding legislative issues that could impact their operations. The week aims to uplift small businesses while discussing policies affecting the local economy.
Chattanooga is gearing up for its annual Small Business Week, starting on Sunday, May 4, and running through Saturday, May 10. This week-long event is designed to honor local entrepreneurs and highlight the significant impact small businesses have on the community.
The Chattanooga Tourism Co. is collaborating with various local businesses to present this year’s celebration. An interactive map has been created, enabling residents and visitors to easily discover exclusive deals and events throughout the week.
Participating businesses have special discounts and activities lined up. For instance, Rêve Coffee and Books will offer a 10% discount on drinks during Small Business Week. On Thursday, May 8, an engaging networking event will be held at Albatross Golf Sim + Bar from 5 to 7 p.m. Attendees can take advantage of free golf as well as happy hour drink specials, which include $1 off draft beer, $3 wines, and $5 draft cocktails.
Additionally, shoppers are invited to celebrate The Rustic House‘s 12th anniversary on Saturday, May 10, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This festive occasion will include candle-making, special anniversary deals, local vendors, a food truck, and activities that cater to all ages.
NOOGAtoday intends to spotlight local small businesses and gather suggestions for featured businesses in their weekly newsletter. Local business owners are encouraged to participate by signing up and offering unique deals or events during Small Business Week before the deadline on March 16, with participation at no charge.
While celebrating local entrepreneurship, concerns have also emerged regarding legislative issues affecting small businesses. Over 20 local business owners have voiced opposition to Tennessee Senator Bo Watson‘s House Bill 0793, which raises concerns about potentially allowing school districts to deny enrollment based on immigrant status. The Tennessee Small Business Alliance has issued warnings that this bill could risk federal funding for local education agencies.
Concerns about the implications of the bill on children’s education rights have also been highlighted by local business owners. In response, the Hamilton County School Board has unanimously voted 8-0 to oppose the bill. The next step for the bill is a scheduled hearing at the Government Operations Committee on April 7.
The importance of supporting local businesses is further emphasized by The Chattery, a local non-profit that hosted a Holiday Market for Small Business Saturday. Despite the challenges faced after their building was burned down in August, the Holiday Market successfully showcased local businesses and encouraged the community to shop local. Business owners expressed gratitude for the chance to present their products and connect with customers directly.
As Chattanooga engages in Small Business Week, the celebrations aim not only to uplift local entrepreneurs but also to spark discussions about policies impacting the business landscape. The collaborative spirit of the community fosters a nurturing environment for small businesses to thrive, reinforcing their vital role in the city’s economy.
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Additional Resources
- NOOGAtoday: Small Business Week Chattanooga
- Times Free Press: Mattson Goes Big for Small Businesses
- Local 3 News: Chattanooga Business Owners Condemn Education Bill
- News Channel 9: Chattanooga Non-Profit Celebrates Small Business Saturday
- Wikipedia: Small Business
