Waterford, Michigan – Oakland County has launched a new sweepstakes program to increase visibility and foot traffic in the county's small businesses during the holiday shopping season. From Nov. 1-26, anyone can submit a selfie photo taken at an Oakland County small business that they consider to be "local gems" for a chance at winning a $1,000 first prize or $500 second prize. The prize money is being provided by Genisys Credit Union.
Entries should be submitted to www.OakGov.com/ShopSmall.
"Small businesses are still recovering from the pandemic and increasingly competing with larger online and in-person businesses," said Oakland County Executive David Coulter. "We want to do whatever we can to help these businesses thrive during this holiday season and beyond."
With each entry of a different Oakland County small business, participants increase their odds of winning. To be eligible, participants must be 18 years or older. Any person who wants to participate, including business owners, does not have to be in the photo, but can enter each business only once. Prizes will be distributed on Dec. 15.
"We are pleased to be partnering with Oakland County again on their campaign," said Genisys Credit Union CEO Jackie Buchanan. "When we support our small businesses, the local economy benefits, including the workers who are our neighbors, friends and family." Genisys Credit Union supplied Main Street Oakland County communities with shopping bags, community banners and posters promoting shopping small and local.
Partners in the Local Gems sweepstakes include Main Street Oakland County, local chambers of commerce and the county's Business Forward team.
Community partners and businesses that want posters and cards to promote the Local Gems Sweepstakes Program should contact Erick Phillips at phillipse@oakgov.com. Digital versions of materials and social media graphics are available on the website under resources: www.OakGov.com/ShopSmall.
Follow all the local gems submitted on Facebook at @AdvantageOak #LocalGemOC
