Central Vermont residents are lucky to have a great diversity of local businesses. Unfortunately, it is easy to take what they provide our community for granted - easy to forget that their success depends on our patronage.

When spending our money, it is important to think about the impact of the choices we make. Each dollar spent locally is a vote for area businesses and for the future of our community. The dollars we cast daily have as much impact as the ballots we cast on election day.

Cast yours wisely!

Last summer, the Central Vermont Chamber of Commerce and others urged area residents to explore local attractions and recreation in their leisure time and to shop locally. In December, the Chamber and the Barre Partnership stressed that shopping locally strengthened the community, strengthened local businesses and supported local employment.

A survey of businesses showed that the message had an impact on consumers and contributed to better-than-expected holiday sales.

With matching dollars from the Vermont regional marketing program, the campaign spent $7,000 in 2008 running nearly 1,000 radio spots. The Chamber believes the campaign is worth repeating even though state funding is no longer available. It is looking to area businesses to step forward and make their “shop locally” voices heard.

Union Institute & University has made a major commitment to the 2009 campaign. The Chamber will again make a significant investment. Others have expressed their support. Together, we can provide an important boost to the local economy.

Many residents shop locally as a matter of course. Others need constant reminders. The goal of this campaign is to provide the reminders that keep tens of thousands of dollars in Central Vermont.

Every dollar raised will be used entirely for media purchases. No level of participation is too small. Won't you add your business to the list? Participate with any amount. Sponsor the campaign with $100 or more and be mentioned in ad tag lines.

To view current sponsors click here.

 

Click Here to sign up to participate!