The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce recently launched its first Small Business Season, which will run through the end of the year. The initiative encourages people to support the efforts of small business owners through purchases, reviews and referrals.

“With the employee shortage, supply chain slowdowns, and the rising cost of nearly everything these days, small businesses are facing unprecedented struggles and can really use our help," says Sarasota Chamber president and CEO Heather Kasten. "It’s estimated $68 of every $100 spent locally stays local. That type of smart spending helps everyone."

In addition to buying from small businesses, the chamber encourages residents to post to social media talking about their favorite local businesses or where they’re spending their holiday budget in town.