We recognize that for some people we’re “preaching to the choir” when we talk about the importance of supporting locally owned business. But looking at the commercial growth present here in central Iowa one has to wonder how the little locally owned shops can survive. We want to be a helpful resource for local entrepreneurs by ramping up the collective power of merchants and garnering the attention of consumers.
This is not an “anti” message. Commercial expansion and corporate growth have a place in central Iowa. We simply want to make sure that we don’t lose sight of outstanding locally owned businesses. Small business entrepreneurs juggle many hats in the course of a day; managing aspects of marketing, operations, competition and constant change. We celebrate their courage and passion.
Keep Des Moines Interesting. Our goal is to be a helpful friend to all merchants and consumers alike by fostering interest in maintaining and growing locally owned business. These merchants provide a unique landscape to our community that we want to preserve. The dsmBUZZ network is our way to facilitate this goal. The merchants who join see the potential in providing a more unified front to supporting the concept “buy locally owned often.”
Why perks? Our business model does not ask for fee support from locally owned merchants. The merchants who join gain free access to the resources dsmBUZZ offers, and in return are willing to offer a “thank you” to dsmBUZZ members. The consumer pays only $10 to gain a wealth of perks from the network of businesses while at the same time supporting something that they believe in.
Research supports the return investment that comes with purchasing locally owned. Here are some further resources:
