Celebrate National Mom & Pop Business Owners Day was March 29th: Nominate a local business

Courtesy Barrie360.com

By Marie Gagne, March 29, 2025

From cozy coffee shops to family-run hardware stores, these businesses create jobs, support local causes, and make our towns unique.

Why local businesses matter

When you shop at a locally owned business, more of your money stays within the community, helping to strengthen the local economy. These businesses often provide more personalized service, build strong relationships with their customers, and contribute to the community through sponsorships and events.

Supporting small businesses means supporting the people behind them — the families, friends, and neighbors who work hard to keep their doors open.

How National Mom & Pop Business Owners Day got started

National Mom & Pop Business Owners Day was started by Rick and Margie Segel in honor of their parents and the successful hat shop they opened in 1939. Over the years, their parents grew the business into a 10,000 sq ft, $2 million clothing shop.

This special day was created to recognize the long hours, hard work, and dedication it takes to run a small business.

So on March 29, make sure to show your appreciation!

How you can celebrate & show support

There are many ways to celebrate National Mom & Pop Business Owners Day and show appreciation for small businesses:

• Shop Local – Visit a neighborhood store, eat at an independent restaurant, or book services from a local provider.
• Leave a Positive Review – A simple online review can boost a business’s visibility and attract new customers.
• Spread the Word – Share your favorite small businesses on social media and recommend them to friends and family.
• Say Thank You – A kind word or a heartfelt “thank you” can go a long way in recognizing the hard work of small business owners.

Nominate a local business for our Business of the Week spotlight!

We’re excited to announce the relaunch of our Business of the Week program this April! If there’s a local business you love, now is your chance to help them get the recognition they deserve.

Nominate your favorite mom-and-pop shop, restaurant, or service provider by filling out this form. Each selected business will be featured on our website, giving them the spotlight they’ve earned through their dedication and service to our community.

Let’s celebrate local together

Small businesses are more than just storefronts … they’re the heartbeat of our neighborhoods. By supporting them today and every day, we help create a thriving, connected, and vibrant community.

Know a business that deserves to be celebrated? Submit your nomination today and let’s show our appreciation for the incredible mom-and-pop businesses that make our town special!