Small Business Week is May 3-9.

There are over 36 million small businesses in the United States. According to data from the Small Business Administration, those businesses employ more than 61 million people. In South Carolina, there are close to 420,000 Small Businesses, employing around 840,000 people.

Data from the Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce shows that 74% of its members are small businesses. Tim James, Chamber President and CEO said the Chamber will celebrate Small Business Month in all of May, because of the importance of small businesses, locally.

Small Business Week has been celebrated for over 60 years, acknowledging the contributions of small business owners.

West Columbia businesses are taking note during Small Business Week by explaining that small businesses allow for friendships and a personal touch that may not be prevalent in large corporations.

Whetzel’s Automotive, at 2017 Augusta Road, is a well-known West Columbia small business. It was established 26 years ago by Rob and Kathy Whetzel. Since opening in 2000, the business has grown significantly and now has 18 service bays.

“West Columbia is filled with wonderful people,” said Rob. “It’s a great place to celebrate small business. With a small business you get to know everyone on a personal level. That builds trust, so our customers have confidence in us because we have developed a relationship with them.

One West Columbia small business is commemorating a milestone this year.

“We’re celebrating our 20th year in business,” said Peggy Ledford, owner of Creative Sewing Machine Center at 519 12th Street in West Columbia’s Triangle City.

“I’m proud to be a part of the business community in West Columbia,” Peggy said. “I have made many friendships through doing business with the people of West Columbia. And because of my location in Triangle City for so many years we serve the whole region, and even some out-of-state customers. Owning my business has been a very fulfilling endeavor and I’m glad to be able to provide the services and products to the people who love to sew. My shop has become a meeting place for those who love the sewing craft and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Tim James, president and CEO of the Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce, said several events are taking place this week in celebration of Small Business Week, and some are extending into the Month of May.

“We are so happy to help advocate and educate our members, and the wonderful partnership we see among our small and large businesses,” James said. are a fine example of how we assist one another and create win-win scenarios.

On Thursday, Board members of the Chamber joined others throughout the state to meet on the statehouse grounds to promote Chamber members.