The 3/50 Project

Their concept is simple and the numbers that back up their cause are staggering.  The 3/50 project is an organization focused on saving the wonderful mom-and-pop stores throughout the country.  I often see small stores that I appreciated close their doors and comfort myself by thinking, ‘Well, I can’t keep them all in business on my own.’  True, but it is quite amazing the profound difference each one of us can make in supporting our local economy.  According to Project 3/50, here’s how it is done:

3

Think about which three independently owned businesses you would miss most if they were gone.  Stop in and say hello.  Pick up a little something that will make someone smile.  Your contribution is what keeps those businesses around.

50

If just half of the employed U.S. population spent $50 each month in independently owned businesses, their purchases would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue.  Imagine the positive impact if 3/4 of the employed population did that.

68

For every $100 spent in independently owned stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures.  If you spend that in a national chain, only $43 stays here.  Spend it online and nothing comes home.

1

the number of people it takes to start the trend… you.

The website is full of great resources, images, t-shirts, etc. to help you show your support!  Print out a couple of the flyers and take them by one of your ‘3’- my guess is you and the owner will be smiling after your visit.