​Imagine a crisp December night in Temple — streets adorned with twinkling lights; the air filled with festive tunes. In the heart of our community, a local shop buzzes with holiday joy. The bell above the door jingles as customers step into a world of warmth and unique treasures. Each gift chosen becomes a brushstroke in our community's vibrant story, a tale of resilience and unity. This holiday season, as you shop locally, you're not just buying gifts; you're becoming a part of our magical, hometown story.
 
As we approach the holiday season, the significance of Shop Local becomes even more pronounced. Choosing to spend money at local stores and services directly invests in our community, contributing to its growth and prosperity.
 
According to the Small Business Association, when you spend $100 at a local store, approximately $68 stays in the community, compared to $43 when spent at a national chain. Local business owners also create jobs, support families, and contribute more to local causes. Small businesses donate 250 percent more than larger businesses, showcasing their commitment to community support.
 
Beyond economic benefits, shopping local offers personalized service, unique products, and helps maintain the distinctive character of the greater Temple area and small businesses.
 
This holiday season, join the movement to Shop Local! According to the Nerdwallet 2023 Holiday Shopping Report, over a quarter of 2023 holiday shoppers (27%) plan to shop more at local and small businesses to support their community.
 
Holiday sales are a crucial time for retailers, accounting for as much as 30% of their annual sales, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF). Projected retail holiday sales for 2023 are expected to increase between 3%-4%, continuing a trend of annual growth since 2009. Despite a slower growth rate compared to recent years, this increase aligns with pre-pandemic levels, with online sales expected to rise between 7%-9%.
 
Consumer behavior post-COVID-19 continues to shift, emphasizing the importance of supporting local stores. Individual spending is projected to be slightly higher this year, with an expected consumer average of $875 on holiday gifts, décor, and other items, according to NRF’s latest holiday survey.
 
Shopping is not just about the thrill of discovery; it's an investment in our community.
 
Let the joy of shopping become a collective celebration of our community's spirit and uniqueness this holiday season and beyond. Discover the hidden gems for shopping, enjoyment, and exploration in the greater Temple area by exploring the Temple Chamber's online Business Directory at bit.ly/ThinkTempleFirst.

​The Rotary Club of Temple, the Rotary Club of Temple-South, Temple College, and the Temple Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the completion of the second cohort of Launch Temple. Eleven aspiring entrepreneurs graduated from the 10-week program on June 22, 2023.
 
Launch Temple is part of the LaunchMyCity family of programs, modeled after LaunchDETROIT (Michigan) and LaunchRALEIGH (North Carolina).
 
LaunchMyCity is a program of Rotary International, the community service and global humanitarian organization located in over 200 countries. The program strives to develop successful entrepreneurs by expanding access to comprehensive business training and financial and business resources.
 
Launch Temple is a collaborative effort between the two Temple Rotary Clubs, Temple College and the Temple Chamber of Commerce, which provides training, mentorship, and networking to cultivate local entrepreneurs.
 
The program is offered at no cost to qualified applicants and held at Temple College. The curriculum is through LaunchMyCity, with Temple College staff, Rotary Members, and business community volunteers providing instruction.
 
The program has eight training sessions with topics including Business Models, Market Research, Funding, Legal Strategy, Marketing and Branding, and more. The participants are also matched with a Mentor to help them navigate the journey of an entrepreneur.
 
Some of the program participants did so to strengthen an existing business. Others participated to gain a great foundation to start their business on the right foot.
 
The Temple Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate the graduates of the second cohort of Launch Temple!
 
The 11 Launch Temple Graduates are: Andre Bailey, Larry Carter, Sandra Escalante, Michael Garcia, Candace Green, Preston Griffith, Janet Lopez, Natalie McAdams, Keia Meyer, Emily Smith, and Jamie Smith.

Join us for the second Small Business Connect Seminar on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at the Hilton Garden Inn. This quarterly seminar brings together local small business owners and entrepreneurs who are eager to enhance their businesses through valuable resources and opportunities.

The upcoming seminar on June 27 focuses on "Marketing & E-Commerce Tools for Small Business." Local business leaders will share their experiences, tools, and strategies for business growth in a panel discussion.

Small Business Connect is made possible with the support of Meta, Extraco Banks, Ludwick Montgomery & Stapp, McLane Intelligent Solutions, and the Hilton Garden Inn.

Don't miss out on this chance to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, gain practical knowledge, and network with influential business leaders. Save the date, Tuesday, June 27, 2023, and join us at the Hilton Garden Inn for the Small Business Connect Seminar.

Register now to secure your spot and take your business to new heights.