3/50 Project

Have you heard about the 3/50 project? As of March 10, 2010, this project reached 50,000 Facebook fans and over one million page views. So what is it?

Project 3/50 was founded by Cinda Baxter and built on the simple premise that to build a stronger economy, we need to inspire and thank consumers for their support of independent, locally owned businesses.

Pick 3. Spend 50. Save your local economy.

3: Think of three businesses you’d miss if they disappeared, then stop in. Say hello. Pick up a little something. That’s what keeps those businesses around.

50: If just half the employed U.S. population committed $50 of their current monthly spending to locally owned, independent brick and mortar businesses, those transactions would generate more than $42.6 billion annually. Imagine what would happen if 3/4 of the poplulation did that.

It’s interesting to note that for for every $100 spent with local brick and mortars, more than $68 returns to the local economy; when spent with a chain or big box, $43 returns. If spent online, unless you live in the same community as the e-tailer, nothing comes home. In an era where we’re glued to our computers and technology, and large superstores make it so easy and convenient to have our goods delivered to our doorstep, this figure hit home for me. Over half of the money stays in the community when you purchase locally. That’s pretty impressive … and is just one little way you can make a difference.

The organization is currently launching the “Eat Down the Street” Campaign, challenging individuals to eat at one locally owned, independent restaurant per week—no chains or national brands. Some of my favorite places are independently owned so this is a no-brainer for me.

For more information, check out The350Project.net.

What are specific things that you are doing to support your local economy and community?