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Support initiatives launched for U.S. small businesses during Small Business Month

 
Support initiatives launched for U.S. small businesses during Small Business Month
Rich Quigley, Vice President | Wilmington IL Chamber of Commerce

During Small Business Month, various initiatives have been announced to support small businesses across the United States. TikTok, Stamps.com, Walmart, and Verizon are among the companies introducing programs to aid entrepreneurs in expanding their operations and overcoming challenges.

TikTok has launched a $1 million advertising credit program for U.S. small businesses. This initiative aims to help these businesses enhance their presence on the platform by offering ad credits. As part of this effort, TikTok is hosting weekly Small Biz Fest Academy Webinars that provide practical advice on advertising strategies. A new video podcast series titled “100 Ways to Grow on TikTok” will also share insights from successful business owners. Additionally, TikTok plans to highlight small businesses at events in New York and Texas, facilitating discussions between entrepreneurs and local legislators.

Stamps.com is offering a $25,000 Small Business Flexibility Grant to a qualifying U.S.-based service-oriented small business with at least three employees and two years of operation. The grant aims to address operational inefficiencies related to manual mailing and shipping tasks. Businesses can apply for this grant until May 31, 2025.

Walmart has introduced the Grow with US program as part of its $350 billion commitment to support American-made goods through 2030. This voluntary framework includes education through Walmart’s Supplier Academy, product discovery opportunities via platforms like RangeMe, mentorship from experienced mentors, and financing options such as early payment opportunities. Upcoming events include an Open Call Event in Bentonville on October 7–8 and pop-up events in several cities during May and June.

Verizon has committed $5 billion over five years to assist U.S. small businesses through its Small Business Supplier Accelerator program. This initiative seeks to integrate more small and veteran-owned businesses into Verizon’s procurement system by providing mentorship and training opportunities.

Verizon also continues its collaboration with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) through the Small Business Digital Ready platform. This platform offers no-cost online learning modules covering digital marketing, operations, financial planning, expert-led coaching sessions, networking events, and access to $10,000 grants for eligible participants who complete certain requirements by June 30.

These initiatives underscore the importance of supporting small businesses as they contribute significantly to both local communities and national economies.

For further details or participation information regarding these programs or others available during Small Business Month, interested parties are encouraged to visit respective websites or contact relevant organizations directly.