CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — The New Hampshire Division of Economic Development is encouraging residents to shop at smaller stores in support of local businesses for its Small Business Saturday promotion.

Small Business Saturday is in its second year and comes a day after Black Friday, when shoppers swarm big-box stores and malls in search of Christmas shopping bargains.

Economic development officials say Granite Staters should shop at their local stores and at the “NH Made” stores promoting the products of local artisans and farmers statewide.

Small Business Administration Director Karen Mills says the theme day is a good opportunity to support the entrepreneurs who help local economies thrive.

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