UNDATED - We are, without a doubt, coming up on one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year, and the Better Business Bureau suggests you consider shopping smaller, local businesses.

Small Business Saturday is a day devoted to supporting independent shops in our communities. The Better Business Bureau, in partnership with American Express, is busy spreading the word on how shopping independent businesses regularly can strengthen local economies.

They say, many times, people discover locally-owned companies they weren't aware of prior to Small Business Saturday.

The BBB and American Express are offering incentives to businesses that participate in the event, including free advertising on Facebook and Twitter. Additionally, American Express customers are welcome to enroll in a $25 credit line, which can be put toward purchases at qualifying Small Business Saturday stores.

For more information, check out Small Business Saturday online.

The Better Business Bureau says, last year, more than 100 million people shopped small on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

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