Here at Mamanista, we love supporting local, small, and online businesses. In my day job, I work with ASTRA, the American Speciality Toy Retailing Association, so I understand the importance of supporting local businesses.
On November 12th, ASTRA will be celebrating the second annual Neighborhood Toy Store Day. The day is set up to highlight and support the importance of independent toy stores. According to the 3/50 Project (via the ASTRA website), “for every $100 spent in local, independently-owned stores, $68 returns to the community in the form of taxes, salaries, charitable contributions and more–in contrast with only $43 dollars when consumers spend their money at a national chain.” Not only does supporting local businesses ultimately benefit the community financially, but small businesses help maintain a charm and uniqueness as well. Your town may have a historic and picturesque main street. If you don’t support your local businesses, main street USA will cease to exist.
Intuit helps small businesses manage their online presence, payroll, credit card processing etc. Intuit’s Love a Local Business competition generously gives a different, deserving small business $25,000 each month! If you or someone you know owns a small business and is deserving of a grant, visit the competition page to nominate and vote for your favorite local business. Your votes will determine the winners!
It’s been very exciting starting my own business, so I’m curious to know: What dream business would you love to start? By replying you will be entered to win an iPad 2!
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Intuit’s Love A Local Business competition. The opinions and text are all mine. Contest runs July 6 to August 9, 2011. A random winner will be announced by August 11, 2011. Official Contest Rules
