Oklahoma is home to some of the most outstanding entrepreneurs on the planet. While we all know the success that state giants have achieved, like QuikTrip and Sonic, many smaller businesses just don’t seem to get the credit they deserve. Why Not Oklahoma understands that when consumers purchase “Made in Oklahoma” products, they are making an impact at home and in their own communities.
It’s no secret that small-scale, locally owned businesses are critical for Oklahoma’s economy. When consumers choose to buy from independent, locally-owned businesses instead of chains, more of that money is cycled back into the community. But what does Made in Oklahoma mean, and what benefits does buying local have on the state?
The Benefits of Buying Made in Oklahoma Products
Made in Oklahoma businesses are an integral part of each community within the state. These small businesses are what make Oklahoma and its unique cities special. Why settle for a big box store when you could positively impact the local and state economy?
Some fantastic benefits can be achieved state-wide when consumers choose to invest in local products and services. First, locally owned businesses will often partner with other local companies when purchasing supplies. This means that environmental impacts can be reduced since less transportation is required – helping to “Keep Our Land Grand.”
Small businesses are also considered one of the top employers nationally, and, in Oklahoma, this is no different. Local businesses create roughly 90% of new job openings in the United States. That means that supporting Made in Oklahoma businesses can open new employment opportunities throughout the state, directly benefiting residents even further.
Buying Made in Oklahoma products also creates a more substantial tax base that improves public services, including schools, emergency response services, and public transportation. In addition to this, locally owned businesses are more likely to support outreach programs within their own communities. That inevitably means a brighter future for Oklahoma.
How Can You Find Made in Oklahoma Products?
The benefits of shopping local are immense. In fact, the state has developed its own Made in Oklahoma program and Made in Oklahoma Coalition to bring more exposure to local businesses and vendors. While these programs have made a drastic impact on the exposure that some companies can obtain, they are rarely all-encompassing of the vast number of small businesses that can be found in Oklahoma.
One of the best ways to support local businesses is to search for big-box alternatives in your area. This could be as simple as finding a local grocery store or coffee shop instead of going to Wal-Mart or Starbucks. Even small steps can make a big difference in the state economy. If everyone were to make it a point to support a local business that sells Made in Oklahoma products each week, the positive impact would be incredible. Even better, it could help you explore new areas within your community that you may not be familiar with already.
How Can Made in Oklahoma Businesses Reach Local Customers?
At Why Not Oklahoma, we knew there had to be a better way to spotlight Made in Oklahoma products and local businesses. That’s why we developed an Oklahoma Gift Ideas list that is updated regularly. In addition to this, we allow any Oklahoma-owned business or franchise to claim their listing and be added to our database. If you are a Made in Oklahoma business, we encourage you to take advantage of these promotional options with a free or premium listing.