LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The Lake County Economic Development Corp., or Lake EDC, announced the launch of the "Eat Drink Shop Local" campaign, a community-driven initiative designed to raise awareness about the significant impact of shopping habits on our local economy.

While “shop local” campaigns are not new, the concept has never been more important.

As the costs of running a business rise and the prices of goods and services increase, households' disposable income has decreased.

When Lake County residents make purchases, it’s crucial to consider how resources are spent and what happens to that money once it leaves your wallet.

The campaign aims to highlight the benefits of shopping locally, including:

• Strengthening the local economy: Money spent at local businesses often stays within the community, creating a positive economic cycle that benefits everyone.
• Job creation: Local businesses are significant employers, providing jobs for residents and contributing to overall economic health.
• Unique and diverse offerings: Local businesses offer unique products and services that reflect the character and culture of our community.

The "Eat Drink Shop Local" campaign is designed to be inclusive, with opportunities for everyone to participate — whether you’re a business owner, a local agency, or an individual. The ultimate goal is to help local businesses survive and thrive, ensuring our communities and families do too.

“We believe that small actions can lead to significant change. By supporting local businesses, we can create a more robust, resilient local economy and a thriving community,” said Ernesto Padilla, president of the Lake County Economic Development Corp.

The campaign has multiple avenues to support local businesses. Businesses wishing to participate can sign up on the website and information will be added to the “Shop Small Saturday” listing. The listing will help share local promotions during the major shopping weekend following Thanksgiving.

Additionally, businesses will have access to free printed and electronic branding materials. The goal is to emphasize the local options for holiday shopping, and brand for year-round focus on eating, drinking, and shopping for local products.

Key events include the following:

Kick-off webinar: 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 21. Nicole Flora, executive director of Lake EDC, will outline the campaign’s purpose, components, and how to get involved.

“Slow the Scroll: Photography and Social Media Training for Business,” 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 28, and Monday, Nov. 4, Lakeport City Hall, 225 Park St. Discover best practices for compelling photographs and business posts on social media to help boost sales during the holiday season.

Shop Small Saturday, Nov. 30. National focus on small, local businesses, kicking off the holiday shopping season. Businesses can sign up to list promotions, and shoppers can find the promotion listing on the Lake EDC website and Facebook page.

For more information about the campaign, sign up for the kick-off, workshops, and be included in the “Shop Small” campaign, or find out other ways you can get involved, visit https://lakecountycaedc.org/shoplocal/.