Support the 319
Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance
We strive to be the top economic growth region in the country
Yesterday was March 19, or as we like to call it, Buy 319 Day! In celebration of our buy-local initiative’s unofficial birthday, we discussed the power of spending locally and asked our community to champion our cause. We even gave away $100 gift cards! These Buy 319 gift cards are special, because they can only be used at Economic Alliance member businesses. Why is that so important? We’ll let one of our card redeemers share their experience:??
“I support local businesses because not only do I know where my hard-earned dollars are going, but I get to see business owners be successful and watch my community grow and thrive. I support by shopping, eating, drinking local.”?
If you want to get involved, you can purchase a purchase a Buy319 Gift Card today at www.buy319.com. For businesses interested in accepting gift cards at their locations, please see our FAQ guide here.?
But that’s not all! As part of this week’s festivities, we are encouraging our members to take a simple pledge. Out of the many products and services they use to keep their business running, we are asking them to switch out one national provider for a locally-owned alternative.?For example, rather than ordering supplies from Staples, members could pledge to order from a local warehouse. Instead of ordering from Domino’s, they could cater from a local pizza parlor. So on and so forth. It’s just one more way we can keep money in our community, leading to a better 319 for all. ?
Questions about the Buy 319 initiative? Learn more here?
Become an Ambassador for the Economic Alliance?
Becoming an official Ambassador for the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance offers personal and professional rewards. Ambassadors form strong connections within the community, supporting businesses through milestone events and networking opportunities. Many find the role invaluable for building relationships, staying engaged with local developments, and even generating business leads.?Here is what our current Ambassadors had to say about their experiences.
Whether wielding giant scissors at ribbon cuttings or simply showing up to support fellow professionals, Ambassadors enjoy a meaningful way to give back while expanding their reach in the business world.??
If you’re interested in becoming an Ambassador, you can fill out an application here.?Act fast, though, applications close March 31.
Market Season is Fast Approaching
This year, the Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market and Market After Dark are celebrating their 20th and 10th seasons! The market dates are as follows:?
But there's more new things on the way! Keep an eye out for some major announcements as we approach the first market on June 7.?
Welcome, New Members!