WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina values the dedication and entrepreneurial spirit of small businesses, which are a crucial pillar of our state’s economy; and
WHEREAS, America’s strongest economic growth in almost 40 years has been driven by the resilience of our small businesses who, despite a world-wide pandemic, continue to pioneer innovative solutions to our country’s greatest challenges and create opportunities for families and workers; and
WHEREAS, from the storefront shops that anchor Main Street, to the high-tech startups that keep America on the cutting edge, to the small manufacturers driving our competitiveness on the global stage, small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the cornerstones of our nation’s promise; and
WHEREAS, when we support small businesses, jobs are created, and local communities preserve their unique culture; and
WHEREAS, because this country’s 32.5 million small businesses create nearly two out of three jobs in our economy, we cannot resolve ourselves to create jobs and spur economic growth in America without discussing ways to support our entrepreneurs; and
WHEREAS, the President of the United States has proclaimed National Small Business Week every year since 1963 to highlight the programs and services available to entrepreneurs through the U.S. Small Business Administration and other government agencies; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina supports and joins in this national effort to help America’s small businesses do what they do best, grow their business, create jobs, and ensure that our local communities remain as vibrant tomorrow as they are today;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May 1 – 7, 2022, as “SMALL BUSINESS WEEK” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.