Why Buy Local?

  1. Second reason

    It keeps dollars in our economy. Of every $100 spent at a local store, $68 stays in the community.

  2. Second reason

    It makes us unique. There’s no place like Berkeley! Homegrown businesses are part of what makes us special.

  3. Third reason

    It creates local jobs. Local businesses are the best at creating higher-paying jobs for our neighbors.

  4. Fourth reason

    It helps the environment. Buying locally saves transportation fuel. Plus you get products that you know are safe and well-made because our neighbors stand behind them.

  5. Fifth reason

    It nurtures our community. Studies show that local businesses donate to community causes at more than twice the rate of chains.

  6. Sixth reason

    It conserves tax dollars. Spending locally ensures that your sales taxes are reinvested where they belong: right here in your community!

Buy Local Berkeley educates about the cultural, environmental, community and economic benefits of shopping at locally owned and operated businesses. Our goal is to inspire people to shift their spending to Berkeley businesses whenever possible.

Local Stories

From mom-and-pops to mini-chains

From Berkeleyside

When Berkeley folk think food — even in the order of grab-and-go — their palates usually paint a picture of small, family-owned places unique to the city’s borders.

Favoring independent, locally owned businesses has been characteristic of the city since its inception and through its evolution, according to the city’s economic development project coordinator Dave Fogarty.

“Some of the chains that have attempted to come into Berkeley have really not been successful and they decided th

Local Events

Solano Stroll

Sunday, September 12, 10am - 6pm

SOLANO STROLL --Since 1974, The Merchants, Restaurants, and Professionals, as well as the twin cities of Albany and Berkeley CA, have hosted the Solano Avenue Stroll, the East Bay’s largest street festival!