May 4 – May 8 | A Week to Support, Connect & Grow

Savannah thrives because of its small businesses — the locally owned shops, restaurants, service providers, and entrepreneurs who give our city its unmistakable charm and character. During Savannah Small Business Week 2026 (May 4–8), our community comes together to celebrate, support, and invest in the people behind those businesses.

This week is more than a series of events; it’s a reminder that when you shop small, you’re strengthening Savannah’s economy, supporting your neighbors, and helping our local culture flourish.

Led by incredible community partners, including the City of Savannah, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Business Association, Greater Savannah Black Chamber, Savannah’s Waterfront, StartUp Savannah, Buy Local, and Savannah Master Calendar, this week is packed with opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate.

Monday, May 4

Small Business Week Kick-Off

The week begins with a community-wide call to action: Shop Small, Savannah!

This kickoff celebrates the heartbeat of our city, our small businesses. It’s the perfect moment to explore your favorite local spots, discover new ones, and commit to supporting local all week long.

Tuesday, May 5

2026 Savannah Business Summit: Hosted by UGA SBDC

Kick off your day with a red-carpet welcome and dive into a full schedule of learning, networking, and inspiration.

What to expect:

• Keynote sessions and expert speakers
• Breakout tracks in Finance, Marketing, and Human Resources
• Workshops on leadership, recruiting, digital marketing, and resilience
• High-value networking with business leaders and professionals

Details:
📅 Tuesday, May 5, 2026
⏰ 8:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
📍 Savannah Convention Center
🔗 Registration: Savannah Business Summit

Whether you’re growing a business or advancing your career, this summit offers the tools and connections to move forward.

Small Business Week Mixer

Wrap up the day at Savannah’s largest collaborative networking event.

Hosted by multiple chambers and community partners, this mixer celebrates the diversity and strength of our local business community.

Expect:

• Open networking
• New connections
• A lively, welcoming atmosphere

Details:
📅 Tuesday, May 5, 2026
⏰ 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
📍 The Park at Eastern Wharf
🔗 Registration: Savannah Business Mixer

Wednesday, May 6

Mayor’s Small Business Conference

Hosted by the City of Savannah and Mayor Van R. Johnson, II, this signature event is all about empowering local businesses.

Highlights include:

• Educational workshops and presentations
• Networking with top business leaders
• The Reverse Trade Show — connect directly with corporations and agencies seeking local vendors

Details:
📅 Wednesday, May 6, 2026
⏰ 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
⏰ Reverse Trade Show: 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.
📍 MLK Civic Center
🔗 Registration: www.savannahga.gov/msbc

Thursday, May 7

Business Opportunity Breakfast

Start your morning with insight and opportunity. This breakfast connects local and minority-owned businesses with City procurement opportunities.

Details:
📅 Thursday, May 7, 2026
⏰ 8:30 a.m. (Breakfast + 9:00 a.m. presentation)
📍 MLK Civic Center
🔗 Registration: www.savannahga.gov/msbc

StartUp Savannah GRIT Pitch Event

This is one you don’t want to miss.

15 entrepreneurs. 3 minutes each. $5,000 in prizes.

Watch innovative ideas come to life on stage — and even vote for the Audience Choice winner.

Details:
📅 Thursday, May 7, 2026
⏰ 5:30 – 8:00 p.m.
📍 The Clyde Venue
🔗 More Info: Tickets & Participation

Friday, May 8

Downtown Clean-Up

End the week by giving back to the community that supports us all.

Join fellow locals in a Downtown Clean-Up to show your love for Savannah and keep our city beautiful.

Details:
📅 Friday, May 8, 2026
⏰ 8:30 – 10:00 a.m.
📍 Meet outside Chive Sea Bar & Lounge
🔗 More Info: Downtown Clean Up

Why Small Business Week Matters

Small businesses are the backbone of Savannah; they create jobs, foster innovation, and build the sense of community we all love.

This week is your chance to:

• Support local entrepreneurs
• Build meaningful connections
• Discover new businesses
• Invest in Savannah’s future

Make Your Commitment: Shop Small, Savannah 💛

Whether you attend an event, grab coffee from a local café, shop a boutique, or share your favorite businesses online — every action makes a difference.

Let’s show up, support local, and celebrate the businesses that make Savannah home.

👉 Explore more local events and plan your week at Savannah Master Calendar.