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ALBANY, NY — This week, ahead of Small Business Saturday, Congressman Paul D. Tonko is recognizing local entrepreneurs and small business owners. During his time in the district ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, Tonko visited two locally owned businesses to highlight the economic potential and local impact of our Capital Region’s small business community.

“Here in our Capital Region, we are lucky to have countless incredible small businesses that offer vibrancy, good jobs, and economic opportunity for our communities,” Congressman Tonko said. “A strong economy starts with supporting and strengthening our local entrepreneurs, and I’ve continued to work in Congress to support our local small businesses by delivering key provisions to keep businesses afloat during the COVID pandemic and by driving investments and reducing costs for entrepreneurs through the Inflation Reduction Act. This Small Business Saturday, I encourage everyone to truly celebrate that holiday spirit of giving by showing support for our small businesses and shopping locally. I thank our dedicated small business owners for their hard work and commitment that continues to make our Capital Region a better, brighter place.”

Studies show that each dollar spent at a locally owned business generates up to three times the local economic impact as a dollar spent at a national chain store.

Tonko’s small business visits this week included:

• A tour of The Schenectady Trading Company, a one-stop shop that features a wide variety of goods sourced from local producers and entrepreneurs in Schenectady County. Founded in 2019 and inspired by the growth and creativity of the Mohawk River community, this store is helping locals and visitors alike discover what Schenectady has to offer.
• A stop at The Sugar Fairy Bakes, a locally owned bakery that sources its ingredients from Capital Region suppliers and local family farms. Now with two Saratoga County locations in Malta and Mechanicville, The Sugar Fairy is delivering homemade happiness and delicious, sweet treats across our communities.

Photos of Rep. Tonko’s visit to The Schenectady Trading Company can be found HERE.

Photos of Rep. Tonko’s visit to The Sugar Fairy Bakes can be found HERE.

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