With summer upon us, our streets are once again coming alive with various festivals and community events happening in our business districts. Whether it’s the Festival of the Arts, Street Eats, and pop-up vendor fairs in Downtown, or the annual dog show in Niles, one thing is clear, local events like these bring the community together and support a vibrant public life.

These gatherings not only allow us to meet our neighbors and enjoy the public realm, they also serve as a perfect opportunity and reminder to shop local and join the growing localism movement.

Why shop local?

Studies show that supporting local businesses strengthens communities by sustaining vibrant shopping areas, looping revenue back into the local economy, and linking neighbors in a web of economic and social relationships. According to the U.S. Small Business Association and the U.S. Department of Labor, there are numerous positive impacts of small, independent business on local economies.

For example:

  • For every $100 you spend at local businesses, $68 will stay in the community.
  • Small businesses employ 77 million Americans and accounted for 65% of all new jobs over the last two decades.
  • Local businesses are owned and operated by our neighbors!  They care about and are invested in the well-being of our community and its future.

From homemade ice cream, to local flower shops and authentic ethnic restaurants, Fremont’s neighborhood business districts are home to many unique establishments. As we know, small businesses play an important role in creating jobs, supporting local causes, and upholding our City’s deep-rooted character. And how this all plays out in our business districts is a story worth reading here.

The Fremont Chamber of Commerce is an important partner in this and continues to support the local economy through advocacy and creative programs.

And that brings us to – Shop Fremont – a perfect tool to boost the shop local phenomenon!

The Shop Fremont digital gift card, which can be used at any participating local merchant for products or services, was created using Yiftee’s nifty gift card platform. Buy the eGift card online for any amount, and you receive it electronically and instantly.  It’s super convenient, virtual, and you can pat yourself on the back for supporting local businesses in the community.

If you are a Fremont merchant or a service provider, consider participating in the program by offering discounts to Shop Fremont card holders. Similarly, larger corporations, professional businesses, and residents can utilize this program to give a gift that “gives back” to the community. You can order in bulk to give to your employees as an incentive, in a welcome basket, or as a raffle prize — the possibilities are endless.

Shop Fremont eGift cards can be purchased here. Sign up today and start discovering some great products and services while helping build a strong and successful community around you.

Visit the Fremont Chamber of Commerce website to see the growing list of active Shop Fremont merchants, and enjoy an extra discount offered only with a Shop eGift Card purchase. Check out the participating merchants below that are ready to serve you:

                                                

 

                                    

 

Have questions or want to want learn more about the program?

Contact KK Kaneshiro at the Fremont Chamber of Commerce by calling 510-795-2244 or emailing kaneshiro@Fremontbusiness.com.

 

Small businesses are a big deal. Initiatives like Shop Fremont help them thrive!