7. Why this, why now?

8. “Small businesses account for 75% of all new jobs in America.” Source: U.S. Chamber of Commerce – Small Business Nation

9. “Spend $100 at an independent business and $68 returns to the local community. Spend $100 at a national chain and only $43 returns to the local community.” Source: Civic Economics – Andersonville Study of Retail Economics

10. “Small businesses reinvest in the economy at a 60% higher rate than chains.” Source: Civic Economics – San Francisco Report on Retail Diversity

11. “If every family in Hampton Roads spent an extra ten bucks locally, over $51 million would be returned to the local economy.” Source: Based on Civic Economics Andersonville Study of Retail Economics finding: When you spend $100 at an independent business, $68 returns to the local community versus $43 when spent with a national chain. Based on U.S. Census 2009 American Community Survey estimate of 626,620 Households in the Virginia Beach- Norfolk-Newport News VA/NC Metro Area.

12. Why Buy Local? You will keep your dollars circulating in the local economy You will embrace what’s unique about your community You will help create local jobs You will help the environment You will help nurture your local community

13. Why Buy Local? You’ll conserve your tax dollars You’ll create more choice You’ll take advantage of their expertise You’ll be investing in entrepreneurship You’ll help make your community a destination

14. “Buy Local” is Growing

15. Mission Educate communities about the importance and strong economic benefits of “buying local.”

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