By Lauri Lee
Northside Economic Development Coalition
Independents Week, a word play on our nation’s Independence Day that Americans celebrate July 4, is an annual Dane Buy Local campaign celebrated for an entire week leading up to our national holiday.
Dane Buy Local is the second largest buy local organization in the nation. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, there are 440,000 small businesses in Wisconsin, representing nearly 98 percent of all employers in the Badger state.
“In Dane County, it’s because of small businesses that we have unique business districts such as Williamson Street, Monroe Street and great small businesses around the county,” said Dane Buy Local Executive Director, Colin Murray. “Small businesses not only provide character to our city and towns, they also are responsible for a higher tax base to pay for the amenities that benefit residents. Plus, small businesses are renowned for donating more time and money to local nonprofits and donations to community teams and events. They hire local, and also use local services for their businesses, which stimulates the economic growth of our community.”
Dane Buy Local Independents Week is recognized June 21 through July 4. A number of activities are planned to recognize our independently owned businesses. The events of the week are open to the public. Northside residents are encouraged to participate. Dane County Regional Airport is the sponsor of the event and participating Northside businesses include Boomerangs, Kingdom Restaurant, Limitless Chiropractic and Dane Buy Local.
A press conference attended by local elected officials kicks off the week of recognition. It will be held at 11:30 am, June 21, at Beans & Cream Bake House in Sun Prairie.
A Neighborhood Walk to celebrate our independents will take place June 21–July 4. The public can purchase a $10 passport entitling them to over $300 worth of free items when they visit their choice of 50 participating Dane Buy Local member businesses. Participants can stop by the businesses they love or want to learn more about on their shopping adventure. The free gift is a token of gratitude for thinking local first. See danebuylocal.com for a list of participating businesses.
A Business Expo will be held June 25 from 4–7 pm at The Village on Park at 2300 S. Park Street, Madison. The event is free to attend and participants can enjoy appetizers, desserts and beverages, as well as network with business owners or check out the locally owned independent businesses. More than 60 members of Dane Buy Local and WWBIC will participate. The expo provides an opportunity to learn about the many businesses in our area that help sustain a diverse economic climate. Northside businesses interested in participating can contact Colin Murray at 608-729-7342.
The work of Dane Buy Local has a significant economic impact on our community. Studies have shown that buying local at independent businesses returns 48 percent to the local economy and increases local prosperity. Money spent at a chain outlet provides a return of only 13.6 percent and just 1 percent is returned through online buying.
To learn more about Dane Buy Local and how to support local businesses, visit danebuylocal.com.