Scoutmob Field Notes

It’s the holidays. You’re in gift-buying, festive party-planning, dining out with friends mode. So what better time of year to jump aboard the Scoutmob “shop indie” bandwagon and make a point to support creative entrepreneurs.

I’ve managed to skip the mall, avoid the big box, and gift those who matter most with treasures from creative entrepreneurs this season. Scoutmob was created to support fellow citizens who make their living out of making our cities great. How much would your neighborhood benefit if everyone spent $100 locally this holiday season? A worthy question answered by the good folks at Independent We Stand. 

And now, the carrot: three pledgers will each win $200 to spend at Etsy, the world’s handmade marketplace, and fellow supporter of the little guy. 

Nearly 6000 have taken the pledge. Let’s get 10,000 by December 31. Say it with us now:

“I hereby state my allegiance to independent businesses this season. I will use my dollars to support entrepreneurs who make this city great. And I shall encourage my compatriots to do the same. This is my solemn virtual pinky swear.”

Go out there and make it happen with these great resources:

• Fire up the Scoutmob mobile app to scout deals at our favorite local businesses near you
• Use the Record Store Day store locator to find independently owned music-lover meccas the world over
• Read up on design-minded local shops in Design*Sponge’s city guides
• Browse recommendations from Etsy users. Bonus points for using Etsy’s Search Local feature.