The Santa Maria Valley Chamber has initiated its Shop Small Santa Maria Valley Holiday Campaign to celebrate and support the community’s small businesses.

Small Business Saturday is an annual nationwide event created by American Express to encourage shoppers to support local businesses during the holiday season.

“Recognizing that small business support shouldn’t end after one day, the chamber is launching a month-long holiday campaign to further uplift local retailers and celebrate the businesses that keep the community strong,” the chamber said.

As part of #ShopSmallSMV, the chamber is hosting an Instagram giveaway, where three winners will each receive a $100 Visa Gift Card. The giveaway runs through Dec. 31.

To enter, visit @SantaMariaChamber on Instagram and follow the instructions on the giveaway post. Participants must follow the page, like the post, and tag a friend and their favorite small business.

“This initiative is designed to increase visibility for local businesses and inspire community members to share, promote, and support the shops they love,” the chamber said.

In partnership with American Express, the chamber is also offering free “Shop Small” merchandise to local business owners. Available items include stickers, decals, signs, and other promotional materials.

Business owners may pick up these free resources, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Santa Maria Valley Chamber Visitor Center.

“Small businesses are the foundation of the Santa Maria Valley,” said Jennifer Harrison, chamber vice president of marketing and communications. “We are proud to support the entrepreneurs who fuel our local economy, create jobs, and bring character and heart to our community.

“This campaign is one way we can amplify their impact during the holiday season.”

The chamber encourages residents to prioritize local purchases throughout the holidays; whether shopping for gifts, dining out, or utilizing local services.

“Every dollar spent locally strengthens the region’s economy and supports the businesses that make Santa Maria unique,” the chamber said.