**Britain’s Brightest Small Businesses Invited to Shine in National Campaign**
The search is on for the UK’s most outstanding small businesses, as organisers of the annual Small Business Saturday campaign launch the latest hunt for inspirational entrepreneurs to feature in the prestigious SmallBiz100. With the countdown to December’s main event under way, business owners from across the country are encouraged to nominate themselves—or a remarkable company in their community—for a chance to be spotlighted as part of the campaign’s influential line-up.
Small Business Saturday has earned its place as the nation’s leading celebration of independent enterprise, returning this year on 6 December. Taking place on the first weekend in December, the campaign urges shoppers to support small, local businesses—not just on the day itself, but throughout the year. This grassroots movement has become a fixture in the UK business diary, rallying both consumers and community leaders to champion entrepreneurship.
Michelle Ovens CBE, Director of Small Business Saturday UK, has issued a clear call for participation. “Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, displaying astonishing resilience through trying times,” she said. Ovens continues to encourage anyone proud of their firm’s achievements to share their stories, while also inviting customers and neighbours to put forward businesses that have truly stood out in their areas.
Previous recipients of the SmallBiz100 accolade report substantial positive outcomes. For instance, Jemma and Angela, who co-founded marbling and homewares venture House of Amitié, reflect on their 2024 selection as transformative. They cite a significant increase not only in confidence but also in financial momentum, thanks to the visibility the campaign provided. Their advice is unequivocal: apply for SmallBiz100, as the platform could open doors to new opportunities.
Originating in the United States through an American Express initiative in 2010, the Small Business Saturday concept crossed the Atlantic three years later. American Express remains a staunch supporter of the UK edition. This steadfast backing coincides with new research from the card services provider, revealing that a majority of UK small business owners view their ventures as robust and resilient, with nearly three-quarters aiming for growth in the near future. This optimism is mirrored in the upbeat tone of this year’s campaign.
Since its inception in Britain, over 1,000 independent companies from a variety of sectors and locations have been featured in the SmallBiz100. Past honourees encompass diverse enterprises, such as a London-based yoga studio, a spice kit supplier from Essex, and a financial education consultancy in Scotland. Each story adds a new dimension to the campaign’s mission—to showcase and uplift the breadth of British innovation.
The main event itself is known for drawing massive attention. On Small Business Saturday, customers flock to local traders, restaurants, and service providers. Business owners join in by promoting their offers, collaborating with peers, and using social platforms to highlight their achievements. The day often acts as a springboard for year-round support, bolstered by extensive national media coverage and endorsements from political leaders spanning from the Prime Minister to local councillors.
Dan Edelman, General Manager of UK Merchant Services at American Express, underscores the vital role independent firms play. “Across the country, small businesses bring character and vibrancy to our communities. We are proud to continue our support through Small Business Saturday and encourage everyone to ‘shop small’ whenever possible,” he said.
Applications for the 2025 edition of SmallBiz100 are now open until 30 June. Business owners interested in putting themselves—or a deserving peer—forward can do so directly through the campaign’s website. The organisers stress that no story is too small and every sector is welcome, as the movement strives to capture the diversity and creativity at the heart of British business.
As anticipation builds towards December, the call for participants reflects a broader spirit of resilience and ambition within the independent business community. With hundreds of success stories already, the tenth year of the UK campaign promises to be one of the most uplifting yet. For more details on how to apply, visit [Small Business Saturday UK](https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/small-biz-100).