Our small businesses are owned by local people, who employ our friends and neighbors. As you start looking for holiday gifts for loved ones, give your community a boost by shopping locally.
Studies show that each dollar spent at a local business generates an additional $5 to $7 in local economic activity. In addition, local small businesses make our communities thriving places by contributing to our schools, churches and community organizations.
You’ll find a great resource in the newly launched Iowa Made Network, which will help you connect with Iowa growers, creators and producers. The site, www.IowaMade.net, is a directory of close to 1,000 businesses that make things in Iowa, including art, wine, furniture, flowers and food. You can search by county, category or keyword to find what you’re looking for.
Iowa growers, creators and producers who would like to be included on the site may contact Iowa Made Network at iowamadenet@gmail.com.