3/50 Project could aid local businesses

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - An idea to help save local businesses first shared in a humble blog post soon spawned a flyer, a website, and a huge amount of interest. The idea is now called the 3/50 Project, and it's being used as a blueprint to help Tippecanoe County businesses.

The name strikes many as strange, but it's a summary what the project asks people to do. The "3" stands for the number of favorite locally owned stores participants are asked to choose. The "50" stands for $50, the total amount community members are asked to spend each month in these locally-owned stores.

Project backers said frequenting these local stores is important because when you spend $100 in a locally-owned store, $68 of that money returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures. The 3/50 Project said that if a business isn't locally owned, only $48 stays in the area.

Jerry Kalal, owner of K. Dees Coffee and Roasting Company is heading up the local 3/50 movement. He saw the website and right away he started printing off fliers to get store owners involved. He said he's counting on those fliers and word of mouth to get the word out.

"It's the small businessman that's driving the economy. We've created more jobs, the small businessman has, than major industry," said Kalal.

Kalal asked consumers to remember the big picture when considering whether to frequent local businesses.

"If you don't come to your local stores, they will go away, and then you have no options. Now you have to go to the big box."

The first week in November marks the 2nd anniversary for Kalal and K. Dees Coffee.

Another Lafayette business, Teacher's Delight has been around for 27 years, and was bought by local resident Shawn Deignan in September. Deignan said she feels pressure to keep the Lafayette staple up and running.

"It makes you nervous, but it also kind of gives you a kick in the pants," said Deignan.

Deignan said that "kick" is forcing her and other store owners to be proactive. Owners are letting shoppers know they want to be around for years to come, but that they can't do that without customers' support.

"It's not asking you to go out and save the economy all by yourself. $50 once a month," said Deignan.

The goal of the project isn't to try to prevent shoppers from frequenting big box stores at all, but to introduce a greater balance into their buying habits and make sure they consider visiting the little guy too.

Many shoppers think this is a good idea, and find value in keeping small businesses in the community. Jean Ann Miller is one such shopper.

"I think you get better service, I think you have, normally more selection when you go to a store like this - Teacher's Delight. That's why I came here today," said Miller.

Miller said she was only here to buy a few things, but is happy knowing she's doing her part to help keep a local shop open.

"I love capitalism - I know that sounds kind of funny - and so I'm all for supporting. I shop here, locally, at stores. Given the chance I'll shop here or there, over Wal-Mart or something," said Miller.

You can find out more about the 3/50 Project at their website: http://www.the350project.net/

For a list of some more locally-owned businesses, check out WLFI's Shop Local page.