Savannah’s Small Business Week Gets a Fresh Start

The city of Savannah is gearing up for its annual Small Business Week, which will run from May 4 to May 8. The highlight is the Mayor’s Small Business Conference on May 6, where entrepreneurs can learn from peers and city leaders. Registration is open online but will close on April 24 or sooner if spots run out. As of the latest update, 167 businesses have already signed up. The conference starts at 8:30 a. m. in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civic Center and ends at 2 p. m. Immediately after, a reverse trade show will run until 5 p. m. , giving local vendors the chance to meet companies looking for suppliers. Both events share the same registration portal, making it easy to join.City officials emphasize that small businesses are vital to Savannah’s economy. They create jobs, boost neighborhoods, and drive innovation. By attending, owners can network, share resources, and discover new opportunities. The week opens with a ribbon‑cutting ceremony at Johnson Square on May 4, encouraging residents to “Shop Small in Savannah. ” This event signals the city’s commitment to supporting local commerce. On May 7, a breakfast hosted by the City of Savannah will connect small and minority businesses with upcoming procurement projects. The same day, Startup Savannah will run a pitch competition for 15 entrepreneurs, offering $5, 000 in cash prizes. Applications closed on April 24 and can be submitted online. All events are free to attend, but spots are limited. Interested parties should register quickly through the city’s website.