The Wire: The Corporate Co-Opt of Local

A number of large corporations (including Starbucks and Wal-Mart) are attempting to re-brand themselves or otherwise cash in on the "buy local" movement. Will it work?

Article by Stacy Mitchell for The Wire.

Where Does Your Money Go?

How much of a difference does it make when you shop at a local business vs. a non-local (chain) business? How much of what you spend stays in your community?

According to this great chart sent to me by John I., $73 of every $100 you spend at a local business stays in your community --- going to wages for employees, suppliers, banking/marketing/printing companies, taxes, and donations. However, if you buy from a non-local business in your town, only $43 of that $100 stays in your community, and the rest goes somewhere else.

Shopping at local businesses helps preserve the character of your area, and it can sustain your community. So, whether you're choosing a restaurant, clothing boutique, printer, or hardware store -- think local!

(Click here to see a larger version of the chart)

Colorado Local First Campaign

The Mile High Business Alliance has created a "Colorado Local First" campaign. They have a great list of 10 Reasons to think local first.