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Thirty years ago, the Ponca City Chamber was looking for ways to keep local dollars circulating within the community. So, the Give Ponca the Business Committee, a group of dedicated Chamber investors determined to make shopping local more than just a good idea, went to work!
Bucks came from longtime Chamber investor and local business champion Carol Bouldin. Bouldin had heard about a similar program in Muskogee and knew that Ponca City could benefit from something just as impactful. With enthusiasm and a plan, the committee hit the pavement, visiting businesses and encouraging them to jump on board. For $250 in advertising, businesses could be a part of something new and exciting!
Then came a game-changer: Conoco, now known as Phillips 66 – The Ponca City Refinery. When Chamber Bucks launched in 1995, Conoco decided to use them as employee Christmas bonuses. That move alone supercharged the program and got people talking. By the end of the first year, 67 businesses had signed up to accept Chamber Bucks – and just like that, a local shopping revolution was born!
Fast forward to today, and the Chamber Bucks program has become a staple of local commerce in Ponca City. Every year, the Chamber sells over $250,000 worth of Chamber Bucks, ensuring that thousands of dollars stay right here in Ponca City. Phillips 66 – The Ponca City Refinery remains one of the biggest supporters, purchasing tens of thousands of dollars in Chamber Bucks annually for their employees for safety, milestone anniversaries and training attendance.
So, how do Chamber Bucks work? Simple! They function just like a check. Any Chamber investor who accepts checks will accept Chamber Bucks. When a customer purchases with Chamber Bucks, the business treats them like a regular check and deposits them at the bank just as they would any other check payment. This system makes it seamless for businesses to participate while ensuring dollars remain in the local economy.
Chamber Bucks may be purchased at the Chamber Office, 420 E. Grand, in increments of $10 and $25, making them a convenient gift option for any budget.
The Ponca City Chamber does not receive any financial benefit from the program; the Chamber now absorbs the printing costs so all investors can participate. Keeping money in our community is worth every penny!
Of course, as with any successful program, a few updates have been made along the way. One notable change is that Chamber Bucks now have a one-year expiration date to help ensure they’re spent promptly. And coming soon – a QR code printed right on the Chamber Bucks! This will allow consumers to scan and instantly access a list of participating Chamber investors, making it even easier to shop locally.
The best part? Chamber Bucks are a win-win for everyone involved. Businesses benefit from increased local spending, consumers get to support their hometown shops and restaurants and Ponca City thrives as dollars stay right where they belong – supporting our friends, neighbors and community growth.
Unlike generic gift cards that can be spent anywhere, Chamber Bucks are exclusive to Ponca City Chamber Investors. This means every dollar spent on Chamber Bucks stays within our local businesses, supporting jobs, growth and the unique character of our community. When you choose Chamber Bucks, you’re investing in Ponca City’s future!
So, the next time you’re considering a perfect gift, a reward for employees, or just a way to keep your hard-earned money working for Ponca City, think Chamber Bucks! When we shop local, we all win!
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