(Photo by the350project.net)
The 3/50 Project breaks it down and makes it easy. The premise is that you choose three independently-owned local businesses that you would truly miss if they were no longer around. Then, shop there. Step one, check!
Each month, aim to spend $50 in these three businesses (and you can choose three new ones each month, if you like). From the 3/50 Project website: “If half the employed population spent $50 each month in locally owned independent businesses, it would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue.” That’s a major impact considering you’re not being asked to spend all that much!
Wondering why it’s so important to drop your dollars locally? Chew on this (once again, straight from the 3/50 Project website): “For every $100 spent in locally owned independent stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures. If you spend that with a national chain, only $43 stays here. Spend it online and nothing comes home.”
It’s clear to me that this is a simple way to do the right thing. After all, how much coaxing do you really need to go shopping at one of your favorite stores?
Jun 1st 2009
