After being stuck at home last year, it can be refreshing to shop in person this holiday season. Small locally owned shops or restaurants in our community offer one-of-a kind experiences.  
For more than a decade, small businesses across the country have joined in a nationwide effort beginning the weekend after Thanksgiving to kick off the holiday shopping season by celebrating small businesses. Local businesses help our community thrive while creating jobs and boosting the economy. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, from 2000 to 2019 small businesses nationwide created 10.5 million net new jobs and represented 99.9% of firms with paid employees. When small businesses succeed, we all do.
Now is a great time to patronize local small businesses for holiday gifts, seasonal décor or simply satisfy your curiosity. You might find a unique hand-crafted bracelet or fresh coffee beans made in small batches from a neighborhood coffee roaster. After a full day of shopping, enjoy a late lunch, or dinner at a locally owned restaurant.
Small businesses are not just for holiday shopping or dining. Most home builders, remodelers and related tradespeople and professional service providers are local companies. They all have a deep interest in making sure the places we live remain safe, clean and attractive.
The local residential construction industry also plays an important role in providing jobs, paying taxes and supporting our economy. Nothing packs a bigger local economic impact than home building. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), constructing 1000 new single-family homes creates 2900 full-time jobs across all U.S. industries, approximately $189 million in wages, and more than $129 million in federal, state and local tax revenues and fees.  
So, when you’re looking for someone to remodel your kitchen, refurbish your bathroom, or build your dream home, explore the small businesses based in our community to find out what they have to offer.
To find a home builder, remodeler or related skilled trades professional, contact the Central Washington Home Builders Association or visit CWHBA.org.