Each year, National Small Business Week recognizes the entrepreneurs and small business owners who keep our communities moving. In Maine, that impact is especially meaningful, because small businesses aren’t just part of the economy; they define it.
Across the U.S., there are over 36 million small businesses, making up 99.9% of all businesses and employing about half of the private-sector workforce. Here in Maine, the numbers are just as striking. The state is home to more than 160,000 small businesses, which collectively employ a significant share of the workforce, an even higher percentage than the national average.
From restaurants and cafés to shops, service providers and financial institutions, small businesses shape the character of our communities. They create jobs, welcome visitors and bring a sense of connection to the places we call home.
What truly sets small businesses apart, though, is their commitment to community. Across the Sebasticook Valley region and beyond, local business owners go beyond their day-to-day operations to support charities, host events and give back in meaningful ways. You see it in efforts like the local tree festivals, where businesses come together during the holidays to raise funds for charities. You also see it in the Maine Credit Union League’s Campaign for Ending Hunger, which has raised more than $16 million since 1990, including nearly $1.5 million in 2025 alone. These efforts reflect a shared understanding that when local communities thrive, everyone benefits.
At Sebasticook Valley Federal Credit Union, we see that impact every day because we are a small, community-focused organization. Our history dates back to 1953, when employees of Northeast Shoe Co. in Pittsfield formed a financial cooperative to serve their coworkers and families. Built on the idea of providing access to fair, reliable credit, that mission continues to guide us today.
Over the years, that commitment has grown into a broader investment in the communities we serve. From offering scholarships for local students to hosting financial fitness programs and community events, we aim to build meaningful connections with members and nonmembers alike. We are also proud to support the local economy as a member and corporate sponsor of the Sebasticook Valley Chamber of Commerce, working alongside other local organizations to strengthen our region.
Supporting small businesses matters not just because of their economic impact, but because of the relationships they build. Smaller organizations are often able to provide a more personal level of service, grounded in real connections and a deeper understanding of community needs. It’s a different experience than what larger institutions can typically offer, and it’s one that many people value.
During National Small Business Week, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on how we can support the businesses that support us. Choosing to shop local, working with local service providers and engaging with community events are all simple ways to make a meaningful difference. These everyday decisions help sustain the businesses that contribute so much to Maine’s economy and identity. When we succeed, our communities grow stronger alongside us.
