Main Street Threads is one of many Vermilion small businesses participating in National Small Business Week's “I'm Here” campaign. (Larissa Belliswill – Morning Journal)
The countdown will begin as a celebration for the local community during National Small Business Week, which runs from April 28 to May 4, according to a news release from Oberlin Business Partnership Interim Executive Director Sharon Pearson.
The Oberlin Business Partnership is partnering with several other Lorain County Main Street organizations, including the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce, to develop the “I'm Here” campaign, which will bring awareness throughout Oberlin and beyond. There will also be excitement in the area, Pearson said.
“We invite shoppers to embark on a journey of support and discovery through Oberlin’s charming streets,” the release states. “Attendees are encouraged to explore beloved Oberlin businesses, many of which feature unmistakable 'I'm Here' cards, a beacon of community spirit and entrepreneurial resilience.” It is decorated with.
“We're capturing the essence of our vibrant community during this special week, encouraging visits and 'selfies' with the 'I'm Here' card.”
Find an “I'm Here” card at your favorite Oberlin establishments and capture the moment with a selfie at the time of purchase. You can post multiple photos from multiple companies.
Pearson said hashtags are important for posts that get noticed, with posts with the hashtags #Shop44074 or #Shop4470 getting a chance to win a $50 local business gift card, and #LoCoSmallBiz giving all We offer a chance to win over $350 in gift cards to participating communities. Located in Lorain County.
“Mark your calendars for May 8th, when anticipation turns to celebration as we announce the winners live on Facebook,” the release states. “Prepare for a joyful spectacle as we honor our vibrant community and the spirited individuals who make it tick.”
“I'm Here” cards are available at participating businesses downtown and at the Oberlin Business Partnership Office, located at 23 E. College St.
To secure your card and a place to join this journey of support and friendship, contact Joanna Mercado at obpoƯice@gmail.com or 440-774-6262, according to the release.
Of the organizations participating in this year's “I'm Here,” Main Street Vermilion also returned to run Vermilion's small business campaign, with 40 so far participating in this year's I'm Here, according to executive director Kate Leppola. More than 1,000 companies are expected to participate.
“This is a collaboration between the Lorain County Council and Main Street, so we did it last year and we’re excited to be a part of it again this year,” Leppola said. “National Small Business Week is an important reminder of how important small businesses are to our local economies, and an easy way for everyone to get involved.”
With many companies using social media for advertising, an “I'm Here” campaign is a great way to “advertise” your company and get your company recognized in a cost-effective and interactive way. Lepora said it will help.
“I think it really highlights small businesses in terms of being able to share cards,” said Jackie Adkins, owner of Main Street Threads and Mistakes on the Lake. “This is really great because a lot of people may have never heard of a particular store, especially if it's a new store.
“It just makes them aware of the products they might have or even that their store is there.”
Main Street Threads is one of many participating businesses to recognize National Small Business Week and will be offering 10% off your entire order when you check out the online post at checkout, Adkins said.
“We're also sharing other businesses. Check out our feed. We'll feature other businesses this week,” she said.
“I'm Here” cards can be found at the Main Street Vermilion office, 685 Main St., or at participating Vermilion businesses.
Post with hashtag #44089ShopSmall and you'll also be entered to win a $50 local Vermilion business gift card.
According to Main Street Vermilion, the #LOCOsmallBiz hashtag will earn you entry to the same “grand prize” in a drawing on May 13th that will award gift cards of $350 or more to local small businesses.