The City of El Paso has been running the Buy El Paso Rewards program for the past two years, encouraging shoppers to shop local and support businesses in their community. This year, El Paso is adding something new to shine a spotlight on the local businesses contributing to El Paso’s community and economy. The inaugural Business One-Stop Shop’s (BOSS) Gala – A Star Is Born is a new initiative celebrating local entrepreneurs, innovators, and businesses across El Paso. As part

A few weeks ago, the El Paso City Council unanimously voted to continue the Buy El Paso program, powered by Open Rewards. During the discussion, several council members spoke about the difference the program has made for residents and small businesses across the city - generating a staggering $5.4 million in local economic impact. But Buy El Paso has done more than reward residents for spending locally. When El Paso's economic development leaders set out to strengthen small b

Passport programs aren't new. But what should communities think about when they move the experience digital? The concept has been around for decades. Tourist boards used them to send visitors from attraction to attraction. Coffee shops used punch cards to reward regulars. Small-town festivals handed out stamp booklets so attendees would wander beyond the main stage. The underlying idea has always been simple: give people a reason to explore, and a record of everywhere they've

It is only fitting that this week we celebrate both Economic Development Week and National Small Business Week at the same time. Since our launch, Open Rewards has partnered with communities across the country to deliver real impact to our local economies. Did we accomplish what we set out to do? The numbers would say that it's a resounding yes. Open Rewards, By the Numbers $54M Local Economic Impact In the form of real revenue driven to local businesses. 807K Purchases Made

Located on the southwestern bank of the Potomac River directly across from Washington, D.C., Arlington County, Virginia, is a vibrant community with a rich history and a dynamic local economy. Home to major national landmarks like the Pentagon, the county also boasts bustling commercial corridors and a population of roughly 240,000 residents. Arlington is known for its strong community engagement and innovative approaches to economic development, making it an ideal environmen

Nestled between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., Howard County, Maryland, occupies a remarkable position—both geographically and economically. Home to approximately 340,000 residents, it consistently ranks among the wealthiest and most educated counties in the United States. Its communities—Columbia, Ellicott City, Fulton, and others—blend suburban livability with a dynamic, diverse economy built in large part on the strength of its small business community. As with many other