About a year ago Cinda Baxter wrote a blog post about the importance of supporting local businesses. Soon that idea blossomed into what is now The 3/50 Project. Here’s the lowdown:

3: Think of three local businesses that you love. What would happen if they shut down? Make a commitment to stop into those stores this month.

50: If half the employed population spent $50 a month in those businesses that would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue.

Wondering what’s the big deal with shopping locally compared to shopping in chain stores? Well much more of your money sticks around your community when you shop in locally owned stores. According to the 3/50 project, for every $100 you spend in local shops, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll and other ways. If you spend that same $100 in a chain store, only $43 stays local.

Here’s how you can support local businesses through the 3/50 Project:

1. Find out who’s involved in your community. The 3/50 Project has a list of local businesses who are supporting this movement according to each state. Search for those in your area and do your part to get behind them.

2. Become a supporter. Even if you don’t own a local brick and mortar shop, you can still be a supporter. Print out the free flyers, hand them out and spread the word.

3. Promote the movement. There are also ways you can promote the movement through social media. If you have a blog, consider putting a badge promoting The 3/50 Project on your website. You can even promote the movement on your Facebook page.

Still feel like you need more information about the benefits of shopping local? Check out the frequently asked questions page of The 3/50 Project.