FAQs for Businesses
Choose Local First is a local initiative created by the Chehalis Community Renaissance Team (CCRT), Centralia Downtown Association (CDA) and the Centralia-Chehalis Chamber of Commerce. The goal of the campaign is to bring awareness to our local businesses, boost our local economy and foster civic pride. It was developed to educate residents why their support of local businesses is a direct benefit to our community as a whole and to the individuals who live here. With each decision to Choose Local First, tax revenues are increased for a stronger infrastructure, community relationships and partnerships are enhanced, and our character as a community becomes more defined. As a result, the community will gain a stronger sense of importance that will come from investing in itself.
The mission of the Choose Local First Campaign is to strengthen the economic and social framework of Chehalis and Centralia by supporting, encouraging and publicizing the community’s locally-owned businesses and raising awareness about the importance of choosing local.
1. Who organized the Choose Local First program?Â
The initial launch was a joint effort between the Chehalis Community Renaissance Team (CCRT), Centralia Downtown Association (CDA) and the Centralia-Chehalis Chamber of Commerce.  As the program develops, the involvement of local businesses and organizations will be key to the success of the program.
2. How will supporting this program benefit my business?
Participating in the program will make a strong statement to local consumers about the benefits of shopping locally. Many businesses have felt the pinch of online and out-of-area competition. We need to become our own advocates and support our community by supporting local businesses here where we live.
3. How can I get involved?Â
Jumping on the bandwagon is simple! We would like to see our local businesses embrace the Choose Local First tagline in their own marketing materials and promotions. After all, this program was created as a method of supporting and growing our local businesses. Look for communication from the Chamber, CCRT and CDA as the next phases unfold.  For now, help advertise and support the concepts and local promotions. Choose Local First is a life style decision, and we all need to bring awareness to this decision.
4. Where can I get more promotional materials and information?Â
Questions or requests for promotional material can be directed to the CCRT at info@experinencechehalis.com, to the CDA by clicking here, and to the Chamber at TheChamber@ChamberWay.com.
5. Can I use the Choose Local First logo on my own advertising?Â
YES – that would be great! The more attention we can bring to this program, the more successful it will be. To get an electronic file of the logo in either color or black and white, please email info@experiencechehalis.com with the file specifications for your advertising piece, and you will be sent the appropriate image.
Click here to visit our Flickr page to download several available versions of the Choose Local First logo.