5Q: Jessica David

 / PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO
/ PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO

1What is Buy Local RI and how is the Rhode Island Foundation involved?

Buy Local RI is a campaign to encourage Rhode Islanders to shop at local businesses. We strive to build a strong economy and vibrant community by promoting locally owned independent businesses, strengthening our state’s merchant and commercial associations, and providing a resource where businesses and individuals can connect to local products and services.

2Why did the foundation get involved and how does it benefit from the initiative?

Economic security is one of our top priorities. Buy Local RI was created by former Lt. Gov. Elizabeth Roberts and the Small Business Advocacy Council. We took it on after our Make It Happen RI initiative.

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3What are the benefits of buying local?

Buying local supports good jobs, keeps money in the Rhode Island economy longer, and strengthens our economy and tax base. Small, local businesses are Rhode Island’s largest employer. They buy from local suppliers and generate wages, services, taxes and community donations. A study found that $100 spent at a local store produced $57 worth of local economic activity, while $100 at a national chain keeps only $13 local. … Our one-of-a-kind businesses make up Rhode Island’s distinctive character. Local businesses are owned by people who live here and are invested in the community’s future. They often take more time to get to know customers, meaning better service for you.

4Is there anything new this year?

While the concept is very simple, one of the great things about this initiative is that there is always something new, as the increasing number of Buy Local RI members introduce new products and services. In addition, there are more than 35 holiday events coming up across Rhode Island. [You can find them all listed on BuyLocalRI.org.]

5Is the initiative growing?

Yes. The Buy Local RI membership is growing steadily. [If you are a locally owned, independent business, make sure your business is listed.] And we’ve found that the concept of supporting local businesses really resonates with Rhode Islanders. Committing to buying more local products and services is something that everyone – individuals, families, small businesses, corporations and large institutions – can do. •

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