Here are the top reasons to shop locally:
1) Buy Local - Support yourself
Several studies have shown that when you shop local significantly more of your money is used to make purchases from other local businesses, service providers, and farms, which continues to strengthen the economic base of the community.
2) Support Community Groups
Nonprofit organizations receive on average 250 percent more support from smaller business owners than they do from large businesses. You can help by supporting local clubs, charities and chambers of commerce.
3) Keep our Community Unique
Where we shop, where we eat and have fun -- all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of this place. Our tourism businesses also benefit. “When people go on vacation they generally seek out destinations that offer them the sense of being someplace, not just anyplace.”
4) Reduce Environmental Impact
Locally owned businesses can make more local purchases requiring less transportation, and generally set up shop in town or city centers as opposed to developing on the fringe. This generally means contributing less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss, and pollution.
5) Create More Good Jobs
Small local businesses are the largest employer nationally, and in our community, provide the most jobs to residents.
6) Nurture Future Leaders & A Skilled Workforce
Supporting our local universities and schools fosters a vibrant, educated community that directly contributes to our local economy. Let's make sure our dollars stay local and strengthen our schools and universities for tomorrows workforce!
7)Get Better Service
Local businesses often hire people with a better understanding of the products they are selling and take more time to get to know customers.
8) Invest In Community
Local businesses are owned by people who live in this community, are less likely to leave, and are more invested in the community’s future.
9) Put Your Taxes To Good Use
Local businesses in town centers require comparatively little infrastructure investment and make more efficient use of public services. The taxes paid by local businesses help support the police, fire and recreational services for the the city you live in.
10) Buy What You Want, Not What Someone Wants You To Buy
A marketplace with lots of businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long term. A multitude of businesses, each selecting products based on local needs with a desire to serve local customers guarantees a much broader range of product choices.
11) Encourage Local Prosperity
A growing body of economic research shows that in an increasingly homogenized world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character.
Community Chamber of Commerce:
“Fostering Business Growth in Every Neighborhood”
The Community Chamber of Commerce proudly introduces Keep-It-Local and Shop Local, our flagship economic development and community building initiatives. We are all about connecting businesses to communities, driving growth together!
Our programs and grants are designed to support business retention and expansion, while fostering a strong sense of community involvement.
Our efforts aim to encourage local businesses to actively participate in community-building activities and highlight the importance of supporting local enterprises. By educating residents on the benefits of civic engagement and backing local businesses, we strive to create a thriving, interconnected community.
"We are all about educating the public on the conditions necessary for businesses and communities to thrive."
Together, let's build a prosperous and vibrant community. 🌟