Top 10 Reasons to Think Local

Significantly more money stays in Cambridge when purchases are made at locally owned, rather than nationally owned, businesses. More money stays in the community because locally owned businesses purchase from other local businesses, service providers, and farms.
Most new jobs are provided by locally owned businesses. Small local businesses are the largest employer nationally, and in Cambridge they provide the most new jobs to residents.
Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of our distinctive character. The unique character of Cambridge is what brought us here and will keep us here.
Local business owners invest in community. Local businesses are owned by people who live locally and are more invested in the community’s future.
Customer service is more personal. Local businesses are closer to the customer and tend to form personal and lasting bonds with their customer base.
Competition and diversity lead to more choices. A multitude of small businesses, each selecting products based on the needs of their local customers and not on a national sales plan, guarantees a much broader range of product choices.
Local business has a lighter environmental impact. Shopping at locally owned businesses is more energy efficient, requiring shorter travel distances. Local businesses also make more local purchases, thus reducing the carbon footprint of goods sold.
Public benefits far outweigh public costs. Local businesses require comparatively little infrastructure investment and make more efficient use of public services than most "big box" stores or national chains.
Local businesses encourage investment in the community. A growing body of economic research shows that entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character.
Non-profits receive greater support. Non-profit organizations receive an average 350% greater support from local business owners than they do from non-locally owned businesses.