Your dollars make a difference. Supporting local independent businesses is the best choice to insure the economic future of local communities, even though public officials often grant concessions and benefits to their absentee competition. Study after study confirms that local stores and restaurants generate more than three times the local economic activity of remote controlled national chains.

Locally owned independents circulate the money right here, for local goods and services from banking and health care to printing and cabinetmaking, while taxes support our schools, parks, law enforcement and more.

Community based businesses care about Tampa and have a direct local impact. Locally owned independent businesses add to the character that is Tampa, contributing more than just goods and services. They offer personalized attention, bring life to historic buildings, and pay their employees - and local taxes - with the income they receive.

Each time you choose to spend your dollars at a local, independent business, you are voting for the continued strength and vitality of our community.

Tampa’s vibrant local independent businesses meet unique needs, create and define our community’s culture, and provide stability, accountability, and direct local investmen