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Quick Links for the Gresham Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center

Try Local First

The Gresham community is committed to supporting the local merchants by trying, shopping, and loving locally. There are many well documented benefits to our community for choosing local, independently owned businesses.

Monthly Try Local events help to introduce residents and visitors alike to all of the fun and unique things that the Gresham area has to offer.  From the Golden Whisk Awards that pit industry competitors in fun culinary competition to learning how to taste gourmet chocolate with the unique local French-Oregon company, the Try Local events are always a good time.

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8 Reasons to Try Local First

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1. The Economy
Significantly more money continues to circulate in the East Metro region when purchases are made locally. The local economic benefits because businesses in our area often purchase from other local businesses, service providers and farms.

2. Jobs
Most new jobs are provided by local businesses. Small, local businesses are the largest employers nationally as well as in our community providing the most new jobs to residents.

3. Community Investment
Most businesses in our area are owned by people who live in our community. They are more likely to be invested in our community.

4. Enhanced Public Services
When dollars are kept locally, it increases the amount of taxes collected that our police, fire and public services need to perform their function. Safer communities happen when we spend locally.

5. Distinct Character
Keep our community unique: Where we shop, where we eat and have fun - all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of our area.

6. Environment Impact
Reduce the impact on our environment. Businesses in our local area generally use local suppliers, requiring less transportation. This means less contribution to congestion, habitat loss and pollution.

7. Know How
Local businesses often hire people with a better understanding of the products they are selling, take more time to get to know customers and provide better customer service.

8. Diverse Marketplace
A marketplace of thousands of diverse businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long-term.

Try Local First Sponsored by

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