The Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with The City of Savannah and various local business organizations, organized Small Business Week 2025 from May 5 to May 10. The event aimed to support and uplift the small-business community in Savannah through workshops, networking events, and a Shop Small Weekend.
The week commenced on Monday, May 5 with an Owner’s Council Luncheon. This provided business owners a platform to discuss recent policy developments affecting small enterprises with local legislators.
On Tuesday, May 6, Mayor Van Johnson and Chamber President Bert Brantley launched the week’s events at a press conference. That evening, over 300 attendees participated in the Small Business Mixer at Eastern Wharf. The event featured live music and offerings from local food trucks.
Wednesday’s activities included the Mayor’s Small Business Conference at the Savannah Civic Center. It offered workshops and featured the 12th Annual State of Small Business report along with a keynote address by Jay Bailey, CEO/President of the R.I.C.E. Center.
Thursday saw businesses engaging in community service through Broughton Street Clean Up. Later that day, Startup Savannah hosted their GRIT pitch competition for emerging entrepreneurs at the Clyde.
The week concluded with Shop Small Weekend on May 9-10. Local leaders visited City Market shops to emphasize the economic benefits of supporting local merchants.
Small Business Week 2025 highlighted Savannah’s dedication to fostering entrepreneurship through collaboration and community involvement. Organizers expressed gratitude to all participants who contributed to its success.
