Realizing that big businesses need small businesses to grow in order to succeed, American Express is working to help SMBs and nonprofits through social media and cross-sector collaboration projects.

According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses have generated 60 to 80 percent of net jobs annually over the last decade and, thus, are key to a successful economy.

In an effort to promote small businesses and raise money for Girls, Inc., a nonprofit resource for young women entrepreneurs, American Express set up Small Business Saturday, giving cardholders who shop at a small store on that day a $25 credit. Merchants saw a 27 percent increase in sales, and $1 million was raised for Girls, Inc. via Facebook's 1.2 million "likes" which pledged $1 for each click.

American Express is also involved in The Startup America Partnership, a campaign out of the White House to promote small businesses. The program connects entrepreneurs with mentors, funding, corporations, and service providers to equip start-ups with the necessary resources.

In collaboration with Facebook and TakePart social action network, American Express has created its Membership Project. This initiative works to inspire volunteers and donors to help support nonprofits.

Entrepreneurial news provided by 123Print.com - providing business cards, letterhead, postcards and other high quality, low cost essentials to help businesses market themselves.