Boulder Leader

City of Boulder issued the following announcement on Nov. 27.

Small, local businesses have been significantly impacted by the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, the City of Boulder is launching a program today, Nov. 27, to assist small retail businesses and incentivize local shopping this holiday season. 

The Retail S.O.S. program provides for the purchase of Boulder e-gift cards valid at participating local retailers. More than 60 Boulder retailers have signed up for the program and are being activated on the gift card website this week. Purchasers will receive a free $25 Boulder Bonus Bucks card for every $25 spent in Boulder gift cards purchased, up to $100 per person, as a free incentive for the purchaser. (Limit of four $25 Boulder Bonus Bucks cards per purchaser). Please visit the Boulder Gift Card web portal for participating retailers, gift card purchases and Boulder Bonus Bucks and program details.

The city will use a portion of allocated federal CARES Act funding to pay for the matching Bonus Bucks cards, which will be valid at participating retailers through Dec. 30, 2020, the deadline for when CARES Act funds must be spent.

“The City of Boulder is pleased to provide residents with this opportunity to make the holidays a little brighter for themselves and for local, small businesses” said Boulder Mayor Sam Weaver. “Small businesses help make Boulder special and provide our community with the goods and services we need and enjoy in our lives. Shopping at local businesses generates sales tax funds that support the basic services we rely on, from police and fire response to the open space, parks, paths and libraries we all treasure.”

Locally owned, small retail businesses inside Boulder city limits may indicate their plans to participate in the program by filling out a short sign up form , and meeting eligibility requirements. As the program is intended to support local, small businesses negatively impacted by COVID-19 restrictions and safety concerns, the program excludes large retailers, grocery stores, dispensaries, and liquor stores. Retailers can continue to sign-up to participate through Dec. 9.

Retail businesses in Boulder provide jobs for more than 8,000 people and contribute to the community’s quality of life. More than 80% of retailers in Boulder have fewer than 20 employees.

Janet Taffet of local retail store Jacque Michelle Gifts & Fashion said “We just signed up and hope that Boulder will feel a big-hearted holiday spirit this Small Business Saturday and throughout this holiday season. Every bit counts and helps us keep our local staff employed, pay operating expenses and keep doing what we love – being good neighbors and bringing clever and beautiful gifts, accessories & clothing to our neighborhood community. We are so happy that the city is providing another supportive opportunity – this one just for retailers.”

Original source can be found here.