Every $1 you spend has consequences. If you choose to buy from locally-owned businesses, your money does more good for your local community. We can give you at least six good reasons to buy local:
- Money: When we shop local, money stays in our local economy longer and does more good. For every $100 you spend at a locally-owned business, an average of $68 stays in the local community. Compare that to just $43 for a big box store.
- Jobs: Local businesses = local jobs. Small businesses are the state’s largest employer. They hire our neighbors, family members, and friends.
- Charm: Local businesses shape the character of our communities. They make our places unique and interesting.
- Climate: Buying local is good for the environment. It means less resources and energy were used to transport goods.
- Community: Local businesses are more inclined to give back to the local community — think Little League teams, raffle donations, and charitable giving — because they are part of the local community. They donate almost 2.5x more per employee than national chains.
- Trust: It feels good to do business with someone you know.
With every purchase you make, you can strengthen the Rhode Island economy.