shop local Chamber and City Provide Direct Support to Small Businesses Through its partnership with the City of Oceanside, the Chamber played a large role in the distribution of CARES Act funding to our small business community through two programs ... Small Business Grants – The Chamber administered the “city-wide” portion of the Small Business Grant Program, while partnering with MainStreet Oceanside who handled grant distribution in the downtown district. Chamber staff oversaw program promotion and outreach and the review of grant applications and distribution of the grant awards. In total, 77 businesses received over $155,000 in grant funding.
Shop Local – Shop Local Oceanside is an ongoing effort to revitalize Oceanside’s economy and support our small businesses. The Chamber purchased $8500 in gift cards from local businesses and distributed the gift cards to residents who participated in Shop Local social media contests. For several weeks in November and December, the Chamber announced daily contest winners with prize packs including gift cards to various Oceanside businesses. Packages ranged in value from $150 – $225. “Our hope is to create a stronger connection between Oceanside residents and the small businesses in our community. With a decline in tourism due to COVID-19, our businesses need local support now more than any time in recent history”, said Chamber CEO, Scott Ashton. 18 | Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal
Winter 2021 | www.oceansidechamber.com