BUSINESS Championing the Independent By Jamie Wilson Monday, August 15, 2016 12:24 AM RELATED CONTENT Living La Vida Local Independents Appeal to the Millennial’s Individuality An Expertly Curated Customer Experience Is Key Making Your Business an Extension of Yourself Better Branding Helps to Transition From the Traditional Independent Retailer Month Helps Support ‘Shop Local’ American Express’ Small Business Saturday was launched on Nov. 27, 2010 to encourage consumers across the country to support small, local businesses. In its sixth year, the event has continued to gain momentum. A big part of the Small Business Saturday is gaining participation from what they call “Neighborhood Champions.” These “Neighborhood Champions” are local businesses and small business organizations that host events to rally the community together and promote shopping small to celebrate the Small Business Saturday event. A part of this includes the “Neighborhood Champions” submitting ideas to American Express regarding what they would like to do for an event in their community. In return, Amex sends them “Shop Small” marketing materials and other advertising tools to help get the message out. Registration is now open on www.AmericanExpress.com for this year’s fall event.