Gardiner Proclaims December as Small Business Month

Published on December 04, 2025

The City of Gardiner has officially proclaimed December 2025 as Small Business Month, recognizing the vital role local businesses play in supporting Gardiner’s economy, strengthening community ties, and enriching the character of its historic downtown.

Adopted by the Gardiner City Council on December 3, the proclamation honors the contributions of small businesses and encourages residents and visitors to shop local throughout the holiday season and beyond.

Small businesses are central to the economic health of communities like Gardiner. According to Main Street America, every $100 spent at a locally owned business generates as much as $68 in local economic activity, supporting jobs, services, and reinvestment within the community. Independent businesses also give back at higher rates, contributing more to local nonprofits, civic groups, and community events than national retailers. Main Street America further notes that Main Street districts are responsible for 21% of all U.S. retail activity, demonstrating the significant economic power of walkable, locally owned commercial districts like downtown Gardiner.

“Our small businesses are the heartbeat of Gardiner,” said Mayor Patricia Hart. “Their creativity, resilience, and commitment make our city vibrant and welcoming. We invite everyone to celebrate Small Business Month by supporting the entrepreneurs who help define Gardiner’s unique sense of place.”

Melissa Lindley, Gardiner’s Director of Economic Development, emphasized the local impact of consumer choices during the holiday season. “When you shop in Gardiner, more of your dollars stay in Gardiner,” Lindley said. “Local spending directly supports jobs in our community, boosts city services through taxes, and helps keep our downtown thriving. The ripple effect of buying local is powerful—it strengthens the entire community.”

Tamara Whitmore, Executive Director of Gardiner Main Street, highlighted how small businesses contribute to community life. “Our downtown business owners are not just retailers and service providers—they are neighbors, volunteers, sponsors, and champions for Gardiner,” Whitmore said. “Independent businesses consistently give more to local causes and organizations, and their presence creates the lively, welcoming atmosphere people love about downtown. Small Business Month is the perfect time to celebrate them.”

Throughout December, residents and visitors are encouraged to explore Gardiner’s unique shops, eateries, makers, and service businesses during holiday events, gift shopping, and everyday errands.

For more information about local businesses and upcoming events, visit www.gardinermainstreet.org or www.gardinermaine.com.