National Small Business Week in Alabama celebrates the ‘backbone of the economy’

MONTGOMERY – To celebrate the critical role small businesses play in driving the state’s economy and supporting job creation, Gov. Kay Ivey this week to be National Small Business Week in Alabama.

The celebration also carries a local impact.

This year, the U.S. Small Business Administration recognized Kimberly and Larry Lewis, owners of Huntsville-based business, PROJECTXYZ, as Alabama’s 2025 Small Business Persons of the Year.

“PROJECTXYZ, INC. is a great example of a local small business empowering the state of Alabama’s economy,” said Janita R. Stewart, SBA Alabama District Director (Acting). “In accordance with the SBA’s Office of Advocacy’s most recent Small Business Profiles, there are more than 449,000 small businesses in Alabama contributing to the state’s economy, and business owners like Kimberly and Larry Lewis, are helping to lead the way.

“SBA is proud to recognize The Lewis’ as Alabama’s 2025 Small Business Persons of the Year.”

Alabama’s small businesses account for 99.4% of all businesses in the state, employing 46.7% of the private sector workforce.

Over the last 25 years, employment in small businesses has grown by nearly 10%. These businesses also contribute significantly to trade, with Alabama small firms exporting over $4.4 billion in goods annually.

“Small businesses are the engine that keep Alabama moving forward – powering local economies, creating good jobs and strengthening communities in every corner of our state,” said Ivey. “Our state’s entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well, and it’s building a stronger, more competitive Alabama for generations to come.”

Due to jobs creation, the small business is also recognized as the backbone of the economy.

“From Main Street storefronts to family farms, small businesses are the backbone of Alabama’s economy from the mountains in the north, to the beaches in the south, the wiregrass in the southeast and the timber lands in the western part of the state, each business is strengthening their communities and creating jobs,” said National Federation of Independent Business Alabama State Director Rosemary Elebash. “By investing in their success, small businesses ensure a stronger Alabama for everyone.”