Small businesses have long been the heart and soul of local communities. There is something to be said about being on a first name basis with a local restaurateur or other small business owner, as such familiarity often translates into exemplary service.

According to the US Small Business Administration, small businesses make up 99.9% of businesses in the country, largely due to the broad definition of small businesses (those with less than 500 employees). However, the vast majority of businesses in the United States have a workforce of less than 20 people, according to the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council. These companies employ nearly 60 million workers, according to the SBA.

Despite the prevalence of small businesses, less than 80% of entrepreneurial small businesses are beyond their first year of existence, and only about half are beyond five years.

Consumers who want to help their favorite small businesses survive can use the holiday season and beyond to set the stage for success. Consumers can make a concerted effort to fuel this important cog in their local economic engines.

· Buy local. The concept is simple but effective. Choosing to shop at local stores over larger conglomerates and franchises can help small businesses take hold. Before making holiday shopping lists, visit local stores and base your gift ideas on the items they have in stock. Chances are these gifts are unique.

· Buy gift cards / certificates. All businesses have slack periods, and after the holidays it is often a period when sales are stagnant. Gift cards can attract new customers to local businesses who otherwise wouldn’t have frequented them, potentially creating new, loyal customers.

· Treat holiday meals and gatherings. The holiday season is full of entertainment possibilities. Individuals can rely on nearby restaurants and other food and beverage companies to host holiday celebrations. Some businesses may also be willing to cut back or donate food for nonprofit group activities, such as church holiday bazaars, school holiday concerts, or fundraising fairs.

Mention small businesses on social media. The holiday season breeds excitement. Therefore, when shoppers are in local stores, they can take photos of overflowing products and shopping bags and post them online while praising local businesses.

· Think about subscription giveaways. Enrollment in a health club or massage therapy service is a gift that continues to be given to the recipient, but also helps to ensure a consistent cash flow for the company providing the service.

When shopping this holiday season, consumers can look to local small businesses in their community that help make towns and villages unique.