Do you support local, independent businesses? If so, and you're in Austin, do you go local?  Would you like an incentive to get insider deals?

There are multiple merchant organizations in Austin, but it doesn't seem that there is a city wide organization.  But now there is the Go Local Austin card, an affinity card where participating businesses can set their own discounts and deals.  It's an alliance that allows for individuality while promoting the city.  No tracking on your part, either; the rewards are immediate.

What a great concept; local businesses can join, and consumers who have the $10 card can get special deals and discounts at participating businesses. The mission statement is succinct... "to simultaneously champion the businesses that make Austin unique and reward the people that support them."  The card isn't free, but the price is well worth a try; at $10, many participating companies offer discounts of 10 or 20%, which makes it pay for itself in one purchase (or less).
So much better than a coupon book.

It's not surprising that local business success story, Alamo Drafthouse, is one of the first businesses to join. You know Tim and Karrie League are big proponents of local business, especially when the original Alamo location had to close because of exorbitant rent increase; unlike other Austin landmarks, The Alamo weathered the storm by moving the Ritz location. 

But the Alamo isn't alone; all sorts of local businesses are joining up, local eateries are common, as are retailers, but so are fine and folks arts, include MexiCarte, Austin Ballet, and Austin Museum of Art.  Over 20 vendors at the Austin Farmer's market (both the downtown and triangle locations) participate, too.  I've been thinking about getting some movie posters framed, and whaddaya know, Quality Frames & Art is one of the participants. And so is Breed and Co (which may not be such a good thing, I can spend a fortune in there, I don't need any more incentive).

And I just found out my favorite Indian restaurant, The Clay Pit, is the newest member, offering 10% (with some reasonable restrictions) Monday - Thursday.  I hear those curried mussels calling me. They're so good that their wait staff usually ask first before removing the bowl lest they be stabbed by forks. That sauce is fantastic, and great with naan.  And Louie's 106 offers 2nd entree of equal or less value is complimentary!

I'm hoping they'll soon have a graphic that participating vendors can put on their websites, as well as a one for card holders to leave with businesses they'd like to see participate.   And what's in it for participating businesses? There's strength in numbers.  It's a revenue pipeline that rewards existing customers as well as new ones. I know that looking at the list of current members - which is growing all the time- there are businesses I've thought about checking out and haven't.  I'm currently thinking about replacing my living room furniture, so Design it with Consignment is looking like an option. 

It's a way of keeping your business' name in the minds of local consumers.  As I'm browsing the list, I'm thinking...Ohhh, I should try that.

If you're interested in other information on the movement to support local business and why to curb big-box shopping:

Small-Mart Blog  Small-Mart  Cutting edge ideas for small business, social enterprise, community economies and sustainable employability. says it all

Walmart: The High Cost of Low Price Those low prices come with costs you might never suspect. It also has an Austin angle.

The Unforeseen Focused on the city of Austin's fight against uncontrolled development, and the impact on the environment and community in unexpected ways.

What Would Jesus Buy  Irreverent, yes, with sharp arguments against big retailers without control and a plea for sensible spending.

Big Box Retail and Austin. A report prepared for the city in 2004 (June).

Big Box Retail And Austin: An Independent Review  Another report, in response to the city's, also prepared in 2004 (October).

You can also find Go Local Austin on Twitter and Facebook

And if you're trying to find them at the Alamo Drafthouse, ask the Mondo Tees guys.