May 2nd, 2022 – The Town of Islip is proud to celebrate small businesses during National Small Business Week, May 1st - May 7th. Small businesses constitute 99% of all business in the U.S. and contribute significantly to our Nation's economy, creating a reported 1.5 million jobs each year.

"Congratulations to all our local entrepreneurs and business owners who are realizing the American Dream," said Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter. "Small businesses are the backbone of a community, and this celebration is a wonderful reminder to shop our local merchants and continue to support small business throughout the year,” the Supervisor added.

The first National Small Business Week was celebrated in 1963 to honor top entrepreneurs in every state with awards and special recognition. Since then, it has been an annual practice to encourage, enable and celebrate small businesses owners who bring new ideas to life, grow our communities and flourish in the land of opportunity.

Unfortunately, small and local business were among the hardest groups hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since its start in 2019, 31% of all small business have become non-operational.

“Now more than ever, local businesses need local support,” said Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter. “In April, the Town Board and I announced the launch of the KIT (Keep Islip Thriving) Grant program. Through funding provided by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), small business owners and not-for-profits within the Town have the opportunity to obtain grant funding to assist with the financial burdens brought on by the pandemic,” the Supervisor added. “I encourage all local and small businesses to apply.”

To learn more about the KIT Grant Application, visit www.islipny.gov/kit.