The Office of Small Business and the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce kick off 21st annual Small Business Week

Next week kicks off Small Business Week, produced by the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, the Office of Small Business, and a committee of local leaders, which showcases resources and citywide events supporting San Francisco’s small businesses and entrepreneurs. This year’s celebration features a variety of events, workshops, and networking opportunities across the City from May 5–9. 

Small Business Week comes on the heels of several major steps from Mayor Daniel Lurie and the Board of Supervisors to support small businesses. These include legislation to renew the First Year Program, which provides millions of dollars in relief from City fees while opening or expanding a business. Mayor Lurie launched PermitSF in February to reform and streamline the city’s permitting processes, to make opening or improving a business fast, predictable, and transparent. He also partnered with State Senator Scott Wiener to introduce state legislation to create new, more affordable liquor licenses and bring new restaurants and bars to downtown San Francisco.

“The future of our city depends on the strength of our small businesses, and our administration is working every day to make it easier for small businesses to succeed,” said Mayor Daniel Lurie. “Every local shop and restaurant I visit reminds me of what makes our city so special, and I'm excited to join our city and community partners to celebrate the small business owners across the city who contribute so much to our vibrant communities. This Small Business Week, I encourage all San Franciscans to get out and support our local businesses."

The theme of Small Business Week 2025, “Rising Together,” emphasizes the power of collaboration over competition. By fostering supportive relationships, small businesses can turn challenges into opportunities, strengthening their resilience and shaping San Francisco’s dynamic future.

“Small businesses are inherent community hubs providing so much more than transactions,” said Rolando Tirado, Small Business Manager at the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce. “San Francisco Small Business Week provides the perfect opportunity to introduce thoughtful programming that leverages community/collaboration to sustain and scale our local institutions.”  

"Every year, our office supports thousands of small business owners who pour their heart and soul into their craft while investing in their communities,” said Director of the Office of Small Business Katy Tang. “Whether it’s helping a business through a lease renewal or getting final sign-off on a permit, we are here to get businesses open, support them through challenges, and help them thrive in San Francisco.”

Small Business Week also provides an opportunity for San Franciscans to celebrate, support, and promote small businesses that make San Francisco shine! 

Key Small Business Week activities and programs:

San Francisco Small Business Week Opening Ceremony

Kick off Small Business Week with an exciting evening of connection, community, and celebration! Enjoy tasty bites, inspiring speakers, a live performance by Veotis Latchison & Friends, and meet dynamic small business exhibitors from across the city. Whether you're a business owner or a supporter of small local institutions, everyone’s welcome to celebrate the spirit that drives San Francisco’s economy.

Small Business Pop-Up Shop

The annual pop-up shop at City Hall on May 6 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. features over 45 local vendors. It is a great place to find a gift for Mother's Day, the graduate, a special gift, or a tasty treat.  

Small Business Fest

SF New Deal and Wells Fargo invite you to celebrate the unique small businesses that are the heartbeat of San Francisco. Head to Wells Fargo Plaza for unique food and retail offerings, music by local DJs, special guest speakers, and delightful giveaways.

4th Annual Legacy Business Mixer

The Legacy Business Mixer is a friendly annual celebration of San Francisco’s over 400 registered Legacy Businesses. It’s also a place for Legacy Business owners to meet, socialize, and network. This year’s event will spotlight host Legacy Business Izzy's Steaks and Chops in their newly renovated space.

San Francisco Public Library (SFPL) presents free in-person and online programs

SFPL’s Small Business Center on the 4th Floor of the Main Library hosts seven in-person and virtual events throughout the week. On May 6 at 6 p.m. at the Main Library, local business journalists discuss their raw and real takes on the current state of entrepreneurship in San Francisco during a panel moderated by Owen Thomas of the San Francisco Business Times. Enjoy an evening of community while connecting with local businesses and neighbors during the Glen Park Small Business Stroll on May 7 at 5 p.m. On May 9 at 2 p.m. at the Main Library, learn how the Office of Small Business helps aspiring entrepreneurs at “Starting a Small Business in San Francisco.”

Virtual programs, like “Plan for Business Success with Gale Business Resources,” presented on May 5 at 10 a.m., provide hands-on guidance to help you maximize Gale’s small business resources. “AI-Powered Success: Elevate Your Small Business with Smart Automation,” presented by expert Deborah Deras on May 8 at 10 a.m., are for those interested in utilizing AI to grow their business. 

“In fulfillment of our mission, the Library provides local entrepreneurs year-round access to free resources designed for small business owners and expert guidance,” said City Librarian Michael Lambert. “We are here to support the success of San Francisco businesses as they deliver vital goods and services, contribute greatly to our vibrant local economy, and pursue their dreams during Small Business Week and beyond!”

Take Muni to Small Business Week events

San Francisco’s Muni system plays a crucial role in connecting both residents and visitors to the city’s dynamic neighborhoods, particularly during Small Business Week. With its extensive network of buses, cable cars, and light rail lines, Muni provides easy access to local shops, cafes, and services, helping small businesses thrive. Whether it’s riding the 49-Van Ness to sample new eateries along the corridor or taking the N-Judah to uncover hidden gems in the Sunset District, Muni serves as a vital lifeline, driving foot traffic and supporting the local economy.

For year-round help for your small business, contact the Office of Small Business, at sf.gov/osb, sfosb@sfgov.org, or 415-554-6134

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