Celebrate!
July Is Independents Month
Small businesses are
the heartbeat of our neighborhoods,
the spine of our local economy,
and the spirit of our town.
Think Local First.
Win Gift Cards
From the Think Local First Rock Hunt
Who doesn’t love a good scavenger hunt? This July, we are hiding dozens of red, navy and light blue rocks in parks throughout Whatcom County. If you’re lucky enough to find one, post a photo of it on social media with the hashtag #thinklocalrocks to win a $20 gift card to a local business*! Be sure to leave it at the park for others to find!
*Limit one prize per household, while supplies last. Promotion ends July 31, 2020.
1. Search
For Think Local First Painted Rocks at parks in Whatcom County
2. Post a photo of the rock on Facebook or Instagram with the hashtag #thinklocalrocks
3. We will send you a $20 gift card to use at a local business!
It’s that simple!
Click Here For Participating Businesses
How can my business participate?
Any independently owned business can participate.
Click here to sign up!
Discover New Shops & Services
1. A thriving local economy
Local retailers hire local people and source more goods locally. They invest up to 3x more into our local community and hire more people per dollar of revenue. Independent businesses also help give our community it’s distinct personality. One of a kind businesses mean one of a kind community. When you shop local, you help keep our character alive.
2. You Benefit From Local Expertise
Local businesses select products based on the needs of local customers, not on a national sales plan. At a local store, you’re 3x more likely to discover something new.
2. Invest in our future
Starting a small business has long been a pathway to the middle class. By supporting local entrepreneurs, you invest in a future that works for all of us. Places with more small businesses have less income inequality.
4. Gain Better Public Services
More local businesses mean a stronger tax base. This means better public services like schools, transportation, and emergency responders. Local businesses also donate 2x more per sales dollar to local events, teams, and charities!
5. Reduce Impacts On Our Environment
Locally owned businesses make more local purchases requiring less transportation, and set up shop in town or city centers which means less sprawl, congestion, habitat loss, and pollution.
Look for Window Decals
Not sure how to tell a locally owned business apart from the rest? Look for these window decals in storefronts to let you know, or ask the employees about the store’s history.
Online Local Business Directory
Find just what you’re looking for.
Peruse locally owned businesses by categories like Recreation, Beer Wine & Spirits, and Florists & Nurseries.
Eat Local Month is this August!
Whatcom County Virtual Farm tour, self-guided farm stand loop, restaurant specials, contests, prizes, celebrations & more!
