FAQs

What is the iBuyMoCo.com campaign?
We are asking residents, business owners, local governments and local organizations to take a look at their purchasing habits and pledge to shift 10% or more of their current out-of-county purchases back to Monroe County businesses. You don't have to spend any more, just more dollars locally. Your commitment will help our communities grow, and you can take pride in knowing that you are taking an active role in creating a stronger economy for everyone.

Why was the ibuyMoCo, Monroe County, Campaign created?
The campaign was created by the Monroe County Tourism Committee due to research by the University of Madison study that showed Monroe County businesses were losing $41 million in potential taxable sales to businesses outside our county. This campaign is an effort to raise awareness of the problem and reverse the trend.

What is the goal of the campaign?
Our ultimate goal is to bring 10% of retail purchases of about $41 million made outside of the county back to Monroe County. We'll do this by educating Monroe Country Citizens on why, how, and where to buy local, assisting Monroe County businesses in local marketing and educating local government entities on options for buying local.

What is the potential economic impact?
According to the University of Madison, we are currently losing $41 million in sales to businesses outside of our county. Shifting 10% of that back to Monroe County will increase sales by $5.5 million. Shifting 10% will also increase employment by 100 persons, increase personal incomes by $3.5 million and increase municipal tax revenues over $700,000.

Are the results being tracked?
We will track the number of pledges and the estimated dollar amount of the commitment. We will recognize the people and businesses who pledge to iBuyMoCo and we will track total county sales improvements through the Department of Revenue reports.

How do you define a "local" business?
We consider any business with operations in Monroe County to be local. Businesses located here, whether independently owned or part of a national chain, employ local people, contribute to our tax base, and donate to our charitable causes.

What is the potential impact on the community?
There is tremendous potential! 100 New jobs can be created. Businesses will grow and prosper. New businesses will come to town. Our tax base can increase over $700,000, providing more dollars for public services - roads, parks, schools, etc. - without a tax increase. More dollars will be available for charitable causes. Personal incomes can increase by $3.5 million. The list goes on and on! The impact is tremendous!

How can I help?
Just pledge to shift 10% of your current out-of-area purchases back into the local community! Whether you purchase $100 or $100,000 worth of goods annually, you will make a difference! Let us know you're participating by completing the iBuyMoCo pledge postcard or online form, and encourage your friends, family members and business associates to do the same.

What's in it for me?
First, a stronger community with more opportunity; a better quality of life. Read the Top 12 Benefits to buying local.

How do I find a local vendor for the products and services I need?
Start with the list of BUSINESSES listed on this web site. It lists businesses by company name and business category. Check out the HOT BUYS section for special offers. Shop any Monroe County business of your choice.

What if I still can't find what I need?
We are not asking you to spend all your money in town, just more than you are currently spending. We realize that not all products and services are available locally, and that people like to shop elsewhere from time to time. In fact, we're only asking you to switch 10% of your current out-of-area purchases back to Monroe County businesses. That should be easy. And it should help local businesses provide more products and services in the future.

What businesses can participate in the iBuyMoCo campaign?
All businesses in Monroe County and those businesses with a close connection to or with Monroe County may be listed on the website at the discretions of the Monroe County Tourism Committee.

This is something you can do to help your community grow without any additional cost because it is money you're already spending, elsewhere.