The Local Gems Sweepstakes returns this year from Nov. 1 to 30 with a kick-off at Leon & Lulu and Three Cats in Clawson. The contest incentivizes Michigan residents to promote small businesses in Oakland County by submitting an original selfie of the interior or exterior of each company they recognize as special.
“Supporting our local businesses during the holiday season is crucial,” said Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter. “This program not only encourages residents to explore and support these local gems but also strengthens the community by keeping dollars circulating within our local economy.”
Created by Oakland County’s Department of Economic Development, sweepstakes contestants could win $1,000, $500 or $250. Beginning November 1, participants can find the sweepstake entry form and official rules at oakgov.com/shopsmall.
Genysis Credit Union is the financial sponsor of the Local Gems Sweepstakes, along with sponsors Oakland Thrive and Main Street Oakland County.
“As a credit union rooted in community, Genisys is proud to support initiatives like Oakland County’s ‘Local Gems’ sweepstakes,” said Jackie Buchanan, president and CEO of Genisys Credit Union. “Shopping locally strengthens our small businesses while developing a sense of unity amongst the community. We encourage everyone to explore our local treasures and shop local this holiday season.”
How to Enter
- Explore small, independently owned businesses in Oakland County.
- Take a selfie inside or outside the business.
- Upload your photo to oakgov.com/shopsmall. Each business visit counts as a separate entry, increasing your chances of winning. Multiple entries are allowed, but only one submission per business is permitted.
Winners will be chosen randomly and notified by Dec. 4, 2024. Prizes will be awarded during a special check presentation later in December.
Rules
To be eligible for the Local Gems Sweepstakes, individuals must be 18 or older and Michigan residents. Participants, including business owners and their employees, as well as community leaders and their staff, can submit one photo of each of their favorite small businesses. Submitting photos of multiple businesses will increase the chances of winning.
Employees and subcontractors of Oakland County, Genysis Credit Union, and Oakland Thrive are not eligible to enter or win the sweepstakes.
Main Street Oakland County
The Main Street Oakland County Program leads the annual Small Business Saturday Campaign to build visibility, foot traffic and sales for small businesses during the holiday shopping season. While visiting local communities, shoppers can check out their holiday events and activities such as Rochester’s The Big Bright Light Show and Holly’s Holly Dickens Festival.
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