Small Business Saturday 2025 is set to bring major economic benefits to Grand Forks. Explore how local shops, entrepreneurs, and community events are transforming this annual shopping day into a record-breaking boost for the region.
Small Business Saturday 2025: Big Benefits for Grand Forks Local Businesses
Every year, the Saturday after Thanksgiving transforms into one of the most important shopping days in America: Small Business Saturday. And in Grand Forks, North Dakota, 2025 is shaping up to be the biggest and most impactful year yet. As large retailers dominate Black Friday and Cyber Monday, this dedicated day brings the spotlight back to local shops, makers, artisans, restaurants, and service providers — businesses that form the heart and soul of the Grand Forks community.
With rising consumer interest in supporting local economies, increasing social media advocacy, and enhanced local government partnerships, Small Business Saturday 2025 promises economic growth, record foot traffic, and renewed community unity for Grand Forks.
This in-depth analysis explores how this annual event is evolving, what it means for business owners and shoppers, and why its benefits extend far beyond a single day of sales.
1. What Is Small Business Saturday — And Why It Matters More in 2025
Small Business Saturday was launched by American Express in 2010 to encourage shoppers to “shop small” and support locally owned businesses. Over the years, it has grown into a nationwide movement embraced by cities, chambers of commerce, and communities.
Why 2025 Is Special
Several factors make 2025 a milestone year:
✔ Rising inflation has shifted consumer loyalty back toward value-driven, local spending
✔ Small businesses have become key drivers of community employment
✔ Local shopping has become a cultural identity in many U.S. towns
✔ Grand Forks is experiencing growing entrepreneurship and downtown revitalization
✔ Shoppers prefer unique, personalized goods that big-box stores rarely offer
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Small Business Saturday generated an estimated $17.9 billion in consumer spending nationwide in 2023, and analysts expect the figure to reach $22+ billion in 2025.
(Source: https://www.sba.gov/article/2023/11/27/small-business-saturday)
Grand Forks aims to secure a strong share of that economic boost.
2. Why Grand Forks Is Positioned for a Strong 2025 Turnout
Several unique aspects of Grand Forks create the perfect environment for a successful Small Business Saturday:
A. A Strong and Growing Local Entrepreneurial Landscape
Grand Forks has seen increased growth in:
- Boutique retail
- Local food businesses
- Handmade goods
- Creative services
- Specialty stores
- Fitness and wellness studios
The Grand Forks Downtown Development Association has reported steady increases in new small business openings yearly since 2021.
B. Downtown Revitalization Efforts
Renovations, improved walkability, new storefronts, and expanded event spaces have made downtown one of the most attractive shopping hubs during the holidays.
C. University Crowds Boost Foot Traffic
With the University of North Dakota nearby, the city benefits from student, faculty, and family spending — especially around holiday breaks.
D. Community Support Culture
Grand Forks has a strong “support local” identity. Local media, schools, organizations, and influencers promote the movement yearly.
3. What Grand Forks Businesses Gain from Small Business Saturday
The benefits go far beyond increased sales. Small Business Saturday strengthens long-term brand loyalty, customer engagement, and economic stability.
A. Increased Revenue and Holiday Kickoff
For many local businesses:
- 20–40% of yearly revenue comes from holiday shopping
- Small Business Saturday is the #1 biggest sales day of the season
Retail analysts expect many Grand Forks shops to see double-digit percentage growth in 2025.
B. Higher Foot Traffic
Foot traffic across downtown Grand Forks typically increases by:
- 35–60% on Small Business Saturday
- Even higher when paired with street festivals or vendor markets
C. Marketing Exposure
American Express provides free promotional materials, online directories, and national advertising, giving small businesses exposure they normally could not afford.
D. Community Networking
Small Business Saturday brings entrepreneurs, local vendors, and community groups together for collaborations and partnership opportunities.
E. Customer Loyalty
Shopping locally strengthens:
- Repeat purchases
- Word-of-mouth referrals
- Social media visibility
- Emotional community connection
4. Grand Forks Events & New Additions to Small Business Saturday 2025
Grand Forks is planning a more robust Small Business Saturday experience, including:
Pop-up holiday markets
Featuring local artisans, bakers, woodworkers, and makers.
Downtown street entertainment
Local bands, performers, and family-friendly attractions.
Giveaways & scavenger hunts
Encouraging shoppers to visit multiple local shops.
“Shop Small Passport” Programs
Shoppers collect stamps at participating businesses to earn prizes.
Food truck row
Expanding dining options and keeping families in the area longer.
These engaging activities are designed to attract both residents and visiting shoppers.
5. 2025 Consumer Trends Affecting Small Business Saturday
Understanding these trends is essential for predicting the success of this annual event.
A. Local Authenticity Is in High Demand
73% of U.S. consumers say they prefer purchasing from businesses that “feel authentic” or share their values.
(Source: Forbes Small Business Trends — https://www.forbes.com/sites)
B. People Want One-of-a-Kind Gifts
Handmade, artisan, and unique goods are more desirable during holidays.
C. Younger Shoppers Are Leading the Movement
Gen Z and Millennials prefer supporting local brands with ethical practices.
D. Social Media Influence Is Stronger Than Ever
Local influencers drive a massive portion of holiday shopping decisions.
E. Rise of “Shop Local” Economic Awareness
More consumers understand that for every $100 spent locally, $68 stays in the community, compared to only $14 when spent at big-box stores.
6. Challenges Grand Forks Businesses Still Face in 2025
While Small Business Saturday offers major advantages, Grand Forks businesses must also overcome:
Inventory shortages
Holiday supply chains can still be unpredictable.
Marketing limitations
Many small businesses lack budget or expertise for wide promotion.
Staffing shortages
The labor market remains tight in service-based industries.
Competition from online shopping
E-commerce giants still dominate holiday spending.
Weather unpredictability
North Dakota’s harsh late-November weather can reduce turnout.
Despite these obstacles, community enthusiasm and preparation help fulfill the day’s potential.
8. Tips for Grand Forks Businesses to Maximize Sales in 2025
✔ Extend shopping hours
✔ Offer bundle deals
✔ Provide free gift wrapping
✔ Give small discounts or freebies
✔ Promote heavily on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok
✔ Encourage email sign-ups for future sales
✔ Join Grand Forks downtown collective events
Businesses that prepare earlier tend to see the largest increase in Small Business Saturday revenue.
9. Long-Term Economic Impact on Grand Forks
Grand Forks’ local economy benefits long after Small Business Saturday ends.
Increased local employment
A thriving small business sector brings more jobs to the community.
Urban revitalization
Successful businesses encourage more investment in real estate and public infrastructure.
Cultural development
Small businesses create the city’s cultural identity — cafes, boutiques, art shops, bakeries, studios, etc.
Small business reinvestment
Money earned from Small Business Saturday often funds:
- Inventory expansion
- New hires
- Store upgrades
- Future business growth
This single day acts as a catalyst for year-round development.
10. Final Conclusion: Why Small Business Saturday Truly Matters to Grand Forks
Small Business Saturday is not just another shopping day — it is a celebration of community, a lifeline for entrepreneurs, and a movement toward sustainable, localized economic growth. Grand Forks stands out because of its tight-knit community, strong entrepreneurial spirit, and rising local engagement.
In 2025, this event is expected to deliver some of the strongest financial and cultural benefits Grand Forks has ever seen — strengthening local identity and supporting businesses that make Grand Forks “home.”
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is Small Business Saturday 2025?
It falls on Saturday, November 29, 2025, the day after Black Friday.
2. Why does Small Business Saturday matter to Grand Forks?
It boosts local revenue, increases foot traffic, and strengthens community bonds.
3. Which businesses in Grand Forks participate?
Boutiques, restaurants, service providers, artisans, home décor shops, tech service stores, cafés, fitness studios, and more.
4. How can shoppers support beyond buying?
Leave reviews, share posts, attend events, and recommend businesses to friends.
5. Do businesses need to register to participate?
Many join through Grand Forks Downtown Development programs or the American Express Shop Small campaign.
6. How big is the economic impact?
Small Business Saturday drives billions in national revenue and provides a major holiday-season boost for local economies.
References Used:
https://www.sba.gov/article/2023/11/27/small-business-saturday
https://www.forbes.com/sites
https://www.americanexpress.com/us/small-business/shop-small
https://www.grandforksnd.gov
https://www.downtowngrandforks.org
