Introducing The Go Local Initiative
Empowering the Shop Local Movement Across Denver
Small businesses are the backbone of America. When you choose local, you’re not just making a purchase—you’re investing in the independent businesses that make your community unique and keep its economy thriving.
Our Mission
The Go Local Initiative is Denver’s community-driven movement to strengthen our local business ecosystem. We connect small businesses with their community while helping residents discover the amazing independent businesses right in their neighborhood.
We believe local businesses deserve better than expensive marketing that doesn’t work. That’s why we’re building a coalition of business owners, community leaders, and local advocates working together to create a thriving independent business community.
Why Shopping Local Transforms Communities
The numbers tell a powerful story:
💰 Economic Impact: For every $100 spent at local businesses, $68 stays in the community (vs. $43 for chains)
👥 Job Creation: Local businesses create 2x more jobs per square foot than big box stores
🏘️ Community Character: Independent businesses create the unique flavor that makes neighborhoods special
💡 Innovation Hub: Small businesses are 16x more likely to develop new products and services
🛡️ Economic Resilience: Communities with strong local business networks recover faster from economic downturns
The Local Multiplier Effect
When you choose local, here’s the ripple effect you create:
- More Local Jobs → Local businesses hire locally and provide career opportunities
- Stronger Tax Base → Local spending generates revenue for community improvements
- Community Reinvestment → Local owners reinvest profits back into the neighborhood
- Environmental Benefits → Shorter supply chains and reduced transportation impact
- Social Connections → Local businesses create gathering places and community bonds
- Economic Diversity → Multiple small businesses create a more resilient local economy
Our Coalition
The Go Local Initiative brings together:
Small Business Owners – The heart of our local economy
Community Leaders – Advocates for local economic development
Civic Organizations – Groups promoting community growth
Local Customers – Residents who choose to shop small
How We Support Local Business
(Coming soon)
1. Community Campaigns & Events
- Monthly Shop Local Days with community-wide promotions
- Local Business Showcase Events for networking and community connection
- Seasonal campaigns for holidays and special events
- Restaurant Benefit Nights supporting local eateries
2. Marketing & Visibility
- Social media spotlighting across our platforms
- Co-branded marketing campaigns benefiting multiple businesses
- “Meet Your Local Business” community events
- Success story sharing and community impact celebration
3. Business Development
- Free workshops on marketing, social media, and business growth
- Mentorship programs connecting experienced owners with newcomers
- Resource connections to SBA, SBDC, and helpful organizations
- Networking opportunities for business-to-business partnerships
4. Community Advocacy
- Policy advocacy supporting small business-friendly local policies
- Awareness campaigns about the economic impact of shopping local
- Coalition building with chambers, neighborhood groups, and nonprofits
- “Multiplier Effect” education on how local spending strengthens communities
5. Financial Support
- “Buy Local” gift certificate programs
- Fundraising events supporting local business development
- Corporate partnership development and sponsorship opportunities
- Crowdfunding campaign support for community funding access
Join the Movement
For Business Owners: Ready to grow your local customer base and connect with your community? Join our coalition of entrepreneurs building Denver’s independent business ecosystem.
For Residents: Want to make a real impact in your neighborhood? Discover local gems, attend community events, and see how your spending choices strengthen Denver.
For Organizations: Looking for meaningful community partnerships? Partner with us to support local economic development and community resilience.
Ready to strengthen your local community? Whether you’re a business owner, resident, or organization, there’s a place for you in The Go Local Initiative.
Think Big. Shop Small. Support Local.
The Go Local Initiative: Building stronger communities, one local business at a time.