JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com/Jmst Chamber) – The Jamestown Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to share the success of its 3rd Annual Loyal to Local Passport Program, dedicated to boosting local spending during the holidays.

The program encouraged participants to spend $250 or more at a minimum of 5 businesses per passport, with over 50 businesses participating as stamping locations. More than 560 completed passports were turned in, contributing to over $150,000 staying local during the 2023 holiday shopping season.

Participants had a chance to win prizes donated by local businesses upon completing a fully stamped passport. Emily Bivens, Jamestown Area Chamber Executive Director, expressed gratitude, saying, “We’re extremely appreciative of everyone involved, from businesses donating prizes to participants keeping their dollars local.”

While celebrating the program’s success, the Chamber acknowledged that the tracked total of $150,000 might only represent a fraction of the actual local spending. Bivens commented, “We know there was much more spent locally. Our passport program is just a small part of the local business support from our area residents.”

Bivens highlighted the impact made by participants, saying, “From those who turned in just one passport to others who turned in multiple, you made an impact, and I’m sure our businesses are grateful for your support. The Jamestown Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to play a part in ensuring our businesses are supported and appreciated.”

The Chamber extended appreciation to businesses, sponsors, and participants for making the Loyal to Local Passport Program a success. The initiative showcased the community’s support and commitment to bolstering the Jamestown business community.