Introducing The Go Local Initiative
Empowering the Shop Local Movement Across Denver
Every dollar you spend is a vote for the kind of community you want to live in.
When you choose local, you’re not just making a purchase—you’re building the neighborhood you want to call home. You’re supporting the chef who sources from Colorado farms, the bookstore owner who remembers your name, and the fitness studio that sponsors your kid’s soccer team.
Our Mission
The Go Local Initiative is Denver’s coalition for independent business. We connect exceptional local businesses with neighbors who value quality, character, and community over convenience and chains.
We’re building something different here. Not another pay-to-play directory. Not another digital ad platform where your money disappears into an algorithm. We’re creating genuine connections between the businesses that make Denver special and the residents who want to support them.
Why Local Matters: The Real Numbers
Your Money Works Harder Locally
For every $100 spent at local businesses, $68 stays in our community—nearly 60% more than chain stores. That’s money circulating through Denver’s economy, not disappearing to distant corporate headquarters.
Local Businesses Create Better Jobs
Independent businesses create twice as many jobs per square foot as big box stores, and those jobs often come with flexibility, mentorship, and actual career growth.
Character You Can’t Chain
The coffee shop with the local artist’s work on the walls. The bookstore that hosts community events. The restaurant using Colorado ingredients. These aren’t corporate decisions—they’re the work of owners who live here and care deeply.
Innovation Happens Locally
Small businesses are 16x more likely to develop new products and services. They’re nimble, creative, and willing to try things chains never would.
Resilience in Uncertain Times
Communities with strong local business networks recover faster from economic disruptions. When Denver’s economy is diversified across hundreds of independent businesses instead of concentrated in a few chains, everyone is more secure.
The Ripple Effect of Choosing Local
When you spend locally, here’s what you’re creating:
Career Opportunities — Local owners hire locally, train personally, and invest in their team’s growth
Community Investment — Your tax dollars stay in Denver, funding schools, parks, and infrastructure
Neighborhood Reinvestment — Local owners reinvest profits into making Denver better
Environmental Impact — Shorter supply chains mean less transportation and more sustainable practices
Real Relationships — Local businesses create gathering places where neighbors actually connect
Economic Diversity — A ecosystem of small businesses is more resilient than dependence on corporate chains
Our Coalition
Small Business Owners — Entrepreneurs who pour their hearts into their craft
Community Leaders — Advocates for local economic development
Civic Organizations — Groups promoting sustainable community growth
Engaged Residents — Neighbors who understand their spending power
How We Strengthen Denver’s Business Community
1. Visibility & Connection
- Monthly business spotlights reaching affluent Denver neighborhoods
- Community showcase events connecting businesses with their ideal customers
- Social media amplification across our engaged audience
- Seasonal campaigns for key shopping periods
2. Education & Growth
- Practical workshops on marketing that actually works
- Mentorship connecting experienced owners with emerging entrepreneurs
- Direct connections to SBA, SBDC, and business resources
- Peer networking for collaboration and support
3. Advocacy & Impact
- Policy advocacy for small business-friendly local regulations
- Economic impact of education for residents and civic leaders
- Coalition building with chambers, neighborhood groups, and nonprofits
- Data and research demonstrating the local multiplier effect
4. Community Programs
- Shop Local campaigns with coordinated promotions
- Local gift certificate programs
- Benefit nights supporting local restaurants and retailers
- Success story sharing demonstrating community impact
Join the Movement
For Business Owners
Ready to connect with customers who appreciate quality over convenience? Join Denver’s coalition of independent businesses building something better than corporate chains.
For Residents
Want your spending to actually strengthen your neighborhood? Discover the exceptional local businesses right in your community and see the difference your choices make.
For Community Partners
Looking for authentic ways to support local economic development? Partner with us to create measurable impact in Denver’s independent business ecosystem.
Think Big. Shop Small. Support Local.
The Go Local Initiative: Building stronger communities, one local business at a time.