This week is National Small Business Week. Since 1963, the president of the United States has issued a proclamation recognizing the contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners.

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, more than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create about two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year.

According to the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce, more than 800 of the chamber’s businesses are small businesses that employ fewer than 50 people.

Small businesses form the backbone of the community, and we appreciate all those who step up as entrepreneurs to start new business ventures. 

Albert Lea has a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and it is always exciting to see the success of companies that started small and now sell their products or services in multiple states.

We encourage people to support local small businesses this week, whether it’s a restaurant, retail store or other company.

As they grow, so does our community.