Friday special day for small businesses

U.S. Sen. Jim Risch and the Idaho Department of Commerce announced creation of “Support Local Gems,” an all-day event to support Idaho small businesses whose operations have been hurt by the COVID-19 outbreak.

This Friday, Idahoans are invited to Support Local Gems by giving their business to their favorite local shops and restaurants. Idahoans can get involved by shopping at small businesses online, purchasing gift cards for future use or for loved ones, ordering take-out or delivery from local restaurants, writing a review online, posting on social media about a local business, or simply saying thank you.

Following the April 24 event, Idaho Commerce and Visit Idaho will continue to promote awareness of the Support Local Gems program by sharing resources as well as the stories of Idaho communities, citizens, and small businesses on visitidaho.org and across its social media channels.

“Idaho small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities and the backbone of our state’s economy,” Risch said. “The ongoing COVID-19 outbreak has forced widespread closures of small businesses across the Gem State, threatening livelihoods, acute job losses, and imperiling the future of Main Street establishments across the state. There are many ways to support these businesses. On Friday, April 24th, I invite you to find a way to express your support for the small businesses that power our economy and make our communities thrive.”

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If your organization or small business would like to get involved in the Support Local Gems initiative, email press@risch.senate.gov.