Savannah mayor declares Small Business Week at annual conference

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Savannah Mayor Van Johnson has declared this week “Small Business Week” in the city.

He made the announcement at the 2026 Mayor’s Small Business Conference, where business owners gathered to network and gain resources. The conference focused on the state of small businesses and the importance of starting small while thinking big.

“If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else is going to believe in you,” a speaker said. “We often die because we lack belief.”

Johnson emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses, which play a key role in the city’s tourism- and logistics-driven economy. Speakers also highlighted the impact of minority-owned businesses, including Black- and Hispanic-owned businesses, and how their success helps preserve Savannah’s culture. When those businesses close, the effects can ripple throughout the community.

Community support helps stabilize local economy

One small business owner said financial support from the community can make all the difference.

“They’ll definitely help stabilize your local government, stabilize your community,” said Alexis Crawford, a business owner. “With that support, it shows the entrepreneurs and the citizens in your area know you truly care.”

A key message this year was to keep going and take that first step. The legacy of Carver State Bank reflects that. Founded nearly 100 years ago as a small Black-owned bank, it has grown significantly and is now preparing to expand into the Atlanta market.

“Carver because of our solid strong leadership from my father, from my brother, has seen immeasurable growth,” a bank representative said.

Leaders said their commitment to the community has been central to that growth.

“We are so focused on community and I think the community sees that and so that has really helped us remain stable and grow in Savannah and in our local community,” the representative said.

Johnson also announced applications are now open for the third cohort of the Launch Savannah Minority Business Accelerator, a program designed to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

A small business job fair will be held May 13 at the Savannah Civic Center.