It’s become cliché to say that every month in Wilson is “small business month”, but it’s true:  more than 90% of Chamber members have fewer than 25 employees.  These businesses contribute tremendously to Wilson’s identity, and they deserve all the support we can give them at any time of year.  While the first week of May is traditionally observed as Small Business Week nationwide, several years ago the Wilson Chamber of Commerce expanded our local observance to cover the entire month.  Since then, we’ve designed programs in May with the purpose of showcasing small businesses and inspiring entrepreneurs to build their business in Wilson.
 
Our Small Business Month events aren’t possible without the generous support of presenting sponsors KS Bank, Providence Bank, and Southern Bank, with additional support from First Citizens Bank, who ensure that these events align with the Chamber’s mission to build a market where businesses prosper.
 
The month kicks off with our Ribbon Cutting Rodeo on Thursday, May 8.  The Chamber is known for welcoming new businesses with our signature ribbon cutting ceremonies, but the Rodeo takes it to another level by holding five ceremonies at five different locations in one day.  This year’s Rodeo celebrates the following Chamber members:
 
Cotton Tails & Co. Fine Children’s Boutique
Choices Women’s Center (celebrating their 40^th anniversary!)
North State Cyber Solutions
Professional Drug Screening Services
The Harriss
 
Building on the momentum of the Ribbon Cutting Rodeo, the next two weeks of Small Business Month include small business industry tours, presented by First Bank & Trust, giving business leaders a behind-the-scenes look at two of Wilson’s most successful small businesses.
 
The first tour on Tuesday, May 13 is a visit to Vick Family Farms, a critical contributor to Wilson’s vibrant agriculture economy, and a leader in the sweet potato export market.  Our second tour on May 20 gives a glimpse into Southern Container Corp., who has been manufacturing and distributing ag packaging supplies in Wilson for more than 70 years.
 
We conclude Small Business Month on Tuesday, May 27, with our Small Business Banquet; an opportunity to reflect on the contributions of small business across the community, and to recognize a small business leader who serves as an example of how a successful entrepreneur has made a meaningful impact on their community.  This year we’re excited to recognize Jon Barbee of Construct, Inc., whose custom fabrication business sets a standard of excellence for their industry, and for community service.
 
The Chamber is grateful for the contributions of all small businesses, and aspires to cultivate market conditions in Wilson where those businesses have a high probability of success.  However, that success is predicated on friends and neighbors who also recognize the value of small businesses by supporting them with their purchases. 
 
If you’re new to our market, and unsure where to turn in your quest to support a local small business, we invite you to call us.  We’ll be happy to make a referral.