By Cathy Renfeldt
Just in time for holiday shopping, the Cordova Chamber of Commerce has announced the launch of the Shop Cordova First Card – a digital program that makes shopping locally easier than ever before.
An effort to boost the local economy and support small businesses, this initiative is designed to keep dollars within the community, providing an essential lifeline to local retailers, restaurants, organizations, and service providers.
The Shop Cordova First Card is available for purchase online via cordovachamber.com and can be redeemed at a variety of participating businesses across the community. It can be used for everything from dining out at local eateries to purchasing goods or services at neighborhood shops.
Supporting local business
We are excited to launch this program as a way to keep more dollars circulating locally within our community and supporting local businesses. These are the businesses and organizations that create jobs, sponsor local events, and make Cordova such a vibrant place to live. With the Shop Cordova First Card, we’re making it easier for residents and visitors to support them.
The timing of the launch couldn’t be better to support local businesses, as we celebrate the holidays with Moonlight Madness shopping events on Fridays – Dec. 13 and Dec. 20.
“Local businesses have had many challenges over the last few years,” said Osa Schultz, a local business owner. “This program gives us an opportunity to engage with more customers and offer them a convenient way to shop and gift locally.”
How it works
The digital gift card is easy to use. Shoppers can purchase the card online via cordovachamber.com, choose a specific dollar amount, and send it directly to their email or mobile phone. The card can then be used at any of the participating local businesses.
With this gift card, there’s no need to worry about carrying around a physical card. It’s entirely digital, making it easier for people to shop on the go and support local businesses.
The card is also an ideal solution for corporate gifting and employee rewards programs, offering businesses a way to support the local economy while showing appreciation for their employees or clients.
Building a stronger community
The Shop Cordova First Card initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, encouraging both residents and visitors to shop locally. Studies have shown that when dollars are spent at local businesses, they circulate within the community and contribute to job creation, infrastructure improvements, and overall economic health.
“Every purchase made with the Shop Cordova First Card helps to sustain our local businesses and creates a ripple effect that benefits the entire community,” said Lisa Koker, Chamber board member and CFO of the Cordova Telecom Cooperative.
Local officials are optimistic that the program will not only drive sales but also foster a greater sense of community pride and engagement.
“We’re hoping to see people share their purchases, highlight their favorite local spots, and spread the word about the importance of supporting local,” said Kristin Smith, Cordova City Council member.
The Shop Cordova First Card is now available for purchase at cordovachamber.com and a full list of participating businesses can be found online.
For more information on the Shop Cordova First Card and Cordova Chamber’s Shop Cordova First campaign, visit cordovachamber.com.
The Cordova Chamber of Commerce is governed by a 14-member board of directors and is comprised of around 125 members. In addition to operating the Cordova Visitor Center, the Chamber’s work is divided into four program areas: Quality of life enhancement, economic development, destination marketing, and business support.
Cathy Renfeldt is the executive director of the Cordova Chamber of Commerce.
