Small Business Week Proclamation

National Small Business Week in the West Valley Region of Greater Phoenix 
May 3–9, 2026 Joint Proclamation
WHEREAS, the West Valley Region of Greater Phoenix is home to a diverse and growing small 
business community that strengthens local economies, creates opportunity, and enhances quality of life 
across our cities and neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS, small businesses remain a cornerstone of the American economy - representing 
99.9% of U.S. businesses and employing 45.9% of private-sector workers - and their innovation and 
resilience help fuel long-term community prosperity; and
WHEREAS, for more than 60 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration has recognized 
National Small Business Week, and in 2026 it is observed May 3–9, 2026, honoring the ingenuity, 
dedication, and contributions of America’s small businesses; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Small Business Administration has recognized that “hardworking small 
businesses are the engine of our economy, the heartbeat of our communities,” reflecting the vital role 
small businesses play in building strong local and national economies; and
WHEREAS, WESTMARC is the leading public-private partnership representing 15 
communities, the business sector, and educational institutions across the West Valley, serving as a 
unifying force to advance the region’s economic vitality; and WESTMARC is helping promote this 
regional Small Business Week effort; and
WHEREAS, West Valley cities and regional partners share a commitment to supporting small 
businesses through coordinated outreach, programs, resource connections, and local procurement, helping 
small businesses start, grow, and thrive across the region; and
WHEREAS, National Small Business Week provides an opportunity for residents, visitors, 
employers, and community organizations to intentionally support small businesses by shopping local, 
sharing recommendations, mentoring, and celebrating the small businesses who make the West Valley a 
great place to live and work.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that the undersigned Mayors and Councils of 
the West Valley Region do hereby proclaim May 3-9, 2026, as National Small Business Week in the 
West Valley Region of Greater Phoenix; and
BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED, that we encourage all residents, businesses, and community 
partners to celebrate West Valley entrepreneurs, recognize the contributions of small businesses to job 
creation and community character, and participate in activities and events that uplift and strengthen our 
regional small business ecosystem.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands and caused this proclamation to be executed 
on this 5th day of May, 2026.
By: _______________________________
Alexis A. Hermosillo,  Mayor