Helping our members survive these difficult economic times is the Chamber's No. 1 priority. Since the support of local shoppers is vital to the success of many of our businesses, the AIFBY Chamber of Commerce is putting together a "Buy Nassau" campaign.
What is it?
Buy Nassau is a campaign to encourage people to think before they spend and spend where they live. The campaign will include the creation of window stickers, buttons and signs to remind people to "Buy Nassau."
The Chamber will create a "Buy Nassau" page, where residents can find out more about the importance of shopping locally and how the success of local businesses impacts the entire community.
While small business owners here know how much they contribute to a variety of community organizations such including school groups, athletic teams, and nonprofits, not everyone understands how much these organizations rely on the generosity of local business owners to survive.
To kick off Buy Nassau, the Chamber is organizing a contest, starting March 1, that's designed to encourage residents to shop in Nassau County and to promote Chamber member businesses.
How does it work?
During the eight weeks of the Buy Nassau contest, receipts from any Nassau County business can be redeemed for a ticket to enter a drawing for a $50 gift certificate from a participating Chamber member.
For every receipt of $5.00 or more (10 receipts per person per visit) brought to the AIFBY Chamber of Commerce, shoppers will receive a drawing ticket. If they bring a donation of nonperishable food for the Barnabas Center, they'll get an extra ticket. The Chamber will be open special extended hours during the contest.
What's in it for me?
People will be sent to www.buynassaucounty.com to learn about the contest and shopping locally, and to find out the winning numbers. A directory of Chamber members will be prominent on the site. You can also send in coupons for people to receive with drawing tickets and to be available on-line. All these free opportunities will raise your business profile and drive new customers your way.
Members who provide gift certificates also will get their logo and a link to their web site on the Buy Nassau page.
Be a local star!
Another benefit provided at no cost to Chamber members is the option to appear in a brief video, shot at your business, where you can speak on the importance of shopping locally. Your video will run on www.buynassaucounty.com. Or if you prefer, we can post your photo with comments. Contact info@aifby.com to schedule. Space and volunteers are limited.
What do I do?
Watch for more updates via e-mail. Donate a gift certificate valued at $50 by February 23. Send us a list of all the local groups -- nonprofits, churches, school groups, athletic teams, etc. -- you support either through direct or in-kind donations. Schedule time to tell your story on video. Put a Buy Nassau logo in your window, in your advertising and on your web site.
Call 261-3248 or e-mail info@aifby.com to get involved today.