The Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce launched the Small Biz Santa program two weeks ago, and local businesses have jumped at the chance to be included.
“We’ve really been blown away by the response we’ve gotten from our member businesses,” said Dr. Timothy J. Magner, Chamber president. “I never would’ve imagined that our prize packs would be so varied and unique. Each of the eleven packs includes great gifts and is valued at over $940!”
Small Biz Santa is a raffle-style game launched by the Chamber in an effort to encourage the shopping public to buy holiday gifts locally this shopping season. A wide range of Shreveport-Bossier businesses provided gift certificates and items for the eleven prize packs. Each pack is named for one of the Twelve Days of Christmas – minus the partridge in the pear tree – and includes gift certificates for hotel stays, restaurants, breweries and wineries, experiences and retail shops. “The packs really include something for everyone,” said Erin Smith, director of marketing, communications and public relations for the Chamber. “You could give the certificates away as gifts, use them to purchase items at our great local retailers or treat yourself this holiday season to some rest and relaxation. It’s up to you!”
To play the game, the public is encouraged to visit www.smallbizsanta.com to see the value and items included in each package. Players can then purchase a square on the game board equal to a dollar amount. For every dollar spent, the player’s name goes into the drawing an equal number of times. For instance, if a player purchases a $20 square, their name is entered in to the drawing 20 times.
“What is so great about this game,” said Dr. Magner, “is that it works on a number of levels. The public gets to learn about and visit some of our great local businesses, the businesses get to showcase some of their unique offerings, the Chamber is able to generate support for our small business programs in the new year and some lucky winners will get some really incredible prize packages. It’s truly a win-win for everyone.”
Winners will be announced at the Chamber Holiday Open House on December 6. The Open House runs from 4 to 6 p.m., but the eleven winners will be drawn beginning at 5:05. The drawing will be streamed live on the Chamber’s Facebook page.
For questions about the game, call the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce at 318-677-2500 or email info@shreveportchamber.org.
