The holiday shopping season is upon us.

And while we’re caught between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, it’s important to remember Small Business Saturday.

While Small Business Saturday officially started in 2010 — a joint venture between American Express and National Trust for Historic Preservation — the spirit of it has always been with us.

Small businesses are the backbone of their community.

Book stores.

Hardware stores.

Home improvement.

Coffee and sandwiches.

Antiques and decor.

Cars and trucks.

Fitness classes.

And don’t let the word “small” fool you.

According to the 2010 census, there were 27.9 million small businesses in the country.

A 2012 report from the Small Business Administration found that small businesses make up 99.7 percent of businesses in the United States.

Money spent at a local small business stays in the community, most likely to be used supporting other small businesses.

Small business owners are our family and friends, our neighbors and loved ones.

Last year, 112 million shoppers showed up on Small Business Saturday and spent $15.4 billion at small businesses, according to American Express.

This year, we encourage you to join in and support our local businesses.