The idea is simple. When dollars are spent at local businesses, they continue to circulate in the local economy and get spent again and again. It’s a program and idea common across small towns and cities. In Jamestown, the program is called ‘Loyal to Local’; it’s run through the Chamber of Commerce, and they’re doing a good job of tracking and bragging about the results. During the 2022 holiday shopping season, the program generated more than $130,000 in sales.
Minot’s Downtown Business & Professional Association operates a similar program. It’s an online gift card that can be redeemed at registered merchants. Learn more about it here.
