The Local Gems Sweepstakes returns this year from Nov. 1 to 30, launching at Designed Mindfully in downtown Pontiac. The contest encourages Michigan residents to promote small businesses in Oakland County by submitting an original selfie taken inside or outside each business they recognize as a local gem for a chance to win $1,000, $500 or $250.
“Small businesses are the backbone of Oakland County’s economy, giving our communities character and making our downtowns thrive,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter. “The Local Gems Sweepstakes is a fun way to highlight and support them, especially as we head into the holiday shopping season.”
The campaign is organized by Oakland County Economic Development in partnership with Genisys Credit Union, Main Street Oakland County and Oakland Thrive. Since its creation, Local Gems has helped boost local shopping and spotlight small businesses that define the county’s diverse and vibrant economy.
“At Genisys, we are deeply rooted in our community, which is why we are proud to support initiatives like Oakland County’s Local Gems Sweepstakes,” said Jackie Buchanan, president and CEO of Genisys Credit Union. “Shopping local is not just a transaction; it is an investment that strengthens our small businesses and builds a unified community. We encourage everyone to discover our local treasures and shop local this holiday season.”
Last year, 499 unique small businesses in 47 communities were submitted as local gems.
How to Enter
- Explore small, independently owned businesses in Oakland County.
- Take a unique selfie inside or outside the business.
- Upload your photo to oakgov.com/shopsmall or mail/hand-deliver to the Oakland County Executive Office Building.
Multiple entries are allowed, but only one submission per business is permitted. Winners will be chosen randomly. Prizes will be awarded during a special check presentation on Dec. 17 at a location that will be announced soon, with winners (or their representative) attending the check presentation.
Rules
No purchase necessary to enter or win a prize. Participants must be Michigan residents and at least 18 years old to enter. Submitting photos of multiple businesses will increase the chances of winning. Employees and contractors of Oakland County are eligible for the Employee-Contractor Sweepstakes, which runs concurrently with the public version of the Local Gems Sweepstakes, Nov. 1-30.
Participants can find the sweepstake entry form and official rules at oakgov.com/shopsmall. Follow and share on social media using @AdvantageOak, #OaklandCounty, and #LocalGemOC.
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