Small business gets big support from Sam's

Sam's Club this week is promoting itself as a small business leader and has announced several initiatives in honor of National Small Business Week May 16 to 20. The company said it would donate up to $200,000 to organizations supporting entrepreneurs. In addition the company is offering a limited-time, lower-cost membership deal for small business owners.

"Small businesses are the pulse of our nation, and we are proud to show them our support this year during National Small Business Week to demonstrate our commitment to their success in 2011," said Brian Cornell, CEO of Sam's Club. "We recognize that small business owners are faced with many challenges these days. We salute those who are doing business everyday and strive to help them grow their business."

Sam's Club is offering small business owners a special, limited-time membership offer, $10 for 10-weeks, beginning May 14. The company said it is also lowering the price on the most frequently purchased items by small businesses including printers and ink.

Tapping into social media, Sam's Club has launched a Facebook page inviting fans to share their small business tips.