3/50 Project

Main street American's could use your help. I've long been a supporter of home town businesses. I still run to the hardware store a few blocks away even though we have a couple of the big box stores in town. The local hardware guys have been there through thick and thin. They still call you by name, and answer questions about that dohickey thingy I'm trying to explain to them.

They're part of home town businesses. Along with the local florist, the small cafe across the way. We need to remember when we spend money in their establishments, it stays in the community.

That's where 3/50 comes in.

The 3/50 Project is founded on these principles:

Think about which three independently owned stores you'd miss if the were gone. Stop in and say hello. Pick up a little something that will make someone smile. Your contribution is what keeps those businesses around.

If just half the employed U.S. population spent $50 each month in independently owned stores, their purchases would generate $42,629,700,000 in revenue.* Imagine the positive impact if 3/4 of employed Americans did that.

For every $100 spent in independently owned stores, $68 of it returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures. If you spend that in a national chain, only $43 stays here. Spend it online and nothing comes home.

The number of people it takes to start a trend...you.

Pick 3. Spend 50. Save your local economy.

Like this idea? Share it with others by going to the 3/50 Project website and registering as a supporter. Pick up a few badges for your websites, counters, or flyers for your neighbors.