County Executive Adam Bello and Mayor Malik Evans proclaim Small Business Week to honor local entrepreneurs across Monroe County

Rochester, New York – Leaders across Rochester and Monroe County are putting a spotlight on the businesses that line neighborhood streets, fill storefronts, employ local residents, and quietly shape daily life in the region.

County Executive Adam Bello joined Mayor Malik Evans in officially proclaiming the week of May 3 as Small Business Week, recognizing the role entrepreneurs and independent business owners continue to play in strengthening the local economy. The annual observance aligns with the national recognition led by the U.S. Small Business Administration, which highlights the importance of small businesses in communities throughout the country.

In Rochester and across Monroe County, small businesses range from neighborhood restaurants and family-owned shops to startups, contractors, creative services, and manufacturing operations. While many employ only a handful of workers, together they form a major part of the local economic structure, providing jobs, services, and investment in communities that depend heavily on local commerce.

“Small businesses are the engine of our local economy, and entrepreneurs seeking to achieve the American dream drive growth,” said County Executive Bello. “Thank you to all of our small business owners for their hard work and dedication. I encourage our residents to shop local and support our small businesses. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient Monroe County.”

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City officials say the annual recognition is not only symbolic but also a reminder of how much local communities depend on entrepreneurs willing to invest time, money, and energy into building businesses from the ground up. In many neighborhoods, small businesses often serve as gathering places, employment hubs, and drivers of redevelopment.

“Small business owners are critical to the growth of our local economy,” said Mayor Malik Evans. “We are pleased to recognize the dedication and outstanding contributions local entrepreneurs make by providing employment opportunities, energizing our neighborhoods, and fostering a stronger local economy through innovation and community resilience, creating a more robust Rochester.”

This year’s Small Business Week also brought recognition to several entrepreneurs from Monroe County who received nominations for regional honors through the SBA’s Buffalo District, which includes Monroe County and other surrounding areas in western New York. The nominees were recognized during a ceremony held Wednesday.

Among those honored was Shannon Halligan, named Small Business Person of the Year. Jon Weaver received recognition as Small Business of the Year, while Ray Holtz was honored as Veteran-Owned Small Business of the Year.

Federal officials said the recognition reflects a broader effort to support businesses operating on Main Streets and within local communities rather than focusing solely on large corporations or national chains.

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“National Small Business Week celebrates the innovators and job creators who keep communities like Monroe County thriving. Under this Administration, the SBA is especially focused on supporting Main Street small businesses that serve their neighbors and strengthen towns and villages every day,” said Matt Coleman. “ The SBA proudly provides entrepreneurs with the resources they need to start, grow, and expand. Last year alone, we delivered over $60.3 million to 255 local small businesses, supporting 1,810 jobs.”

Beyond public recognition, Monroe County officials emphasized the financial programs already available to business owners looking to grow or stabilize their operations. Much of that support comes through the Monroe County Industrial Development Corporation and COMIDA, agencies that help businesses access financing tools such as low-interest loans, tax incentives, and mortgage tax abatements tied to local development projects.

One of the county’s most visible initiatives is the Micro Advantage Loan Program, which offers financing ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. The funding is intended to help entrepreneurs bridge financial gaps connected to equipment purchases, operational costs, or working capital needs that might otherwise slow expansion plans.

Economic development officials say local business owners are encouraged to meet directly with county staff to discuss future projects, expansion opportunities, and possible assistance programs. Support can include guidance on financing, incentives, and long-term planning aimed at helping businesses remain competitive in an increasingly difficult economic climate.

As Small Business Week continues, local leaders say the message remains straightforward: shopping local and investing in neighborhood businesses does more than support individual owners. It strengthens communities, preserves jobs, and helps create a more stable local economy for the future.