(Livonia, Mich, June 26, 2008) – Buy Michigan Now, a campaign designed to improve Michigan’s economy, is expanding its website. There are new tools to help Michigan businesses and community groups throughout the state. Among the exciting new features is a searchable, online directory of Michigan-based businesses.

The directory will help residents and businesses find more Michigan-based organizations to shop from, thereby keeping more money inside the state.  According to campaign founder, Lisa Diggs, “Many people are supportive of the idea of favoring Michigan-based businesses, but are unable or unwilling to do the research to find them. We created the directory to make that easier AND to showcase the diversity of businesses that are contributing to building Michigan’s new economy.”

To be listed, businesses must meet one of the following three Michigan Identification Criteria (MICs):

  • Operates entirely in Michigan
  • Headquartered in Michigan with additional operations outside the state
  • Michigan-owned franchise or affiliate – some fees or revenue paid outside the state.

All organizations that meet one of those criteria are invited to create a directory listing. Users simply open an account and follow three steps.  Each account is entitled to one FREE Basic listing.  Users may opt for a Standard, Enhanced, or Premiere listing package to maximize their marketing impact. Packages range from $100-300 per year.  “I would like nothing more than to see every Michigan-based business listed,” said Diggs. “We believe the free and affordable listing packages make that possible, especially for new businesses that lack marketing funds.”

Other New Features

The website also includes Mich to Mich Opportunities, a feature that allows  businesses to list their desire to find a qualified local vendor, to meet their needs. That is coupled with Mich to Mich Connections, which allows companies to celebrate the new alliances.  The Fundraising Opportunities tool gives Michigan businesses a forum to introduce community groups to available fundraising programs. Nonprofit Needs allows nonprofits to identify specific equipment and services they, in order to find individuals and/or businesses to fulfill those needs.  The site also includes good news happening throughout the state, and several interactive features to engage the community.

The Campaign

Buy Michigan Now is a grassroots effort that was initiated in November of 2007. It aims educate people of all ages about the benefits of buying locally, and to stimulate positive actions in support of Michigan.

The Pledge

Buy Michigan Now also includes a Pledge to support Michigan-based organizations.  Visitors to the site are encouraged to read the Pledge, and if they agree, add their names.

The Founder

Lisa Diggs is also founder of The Catalyst Company, which is a Livonia-based performance consulting agency that was established in 2001. She is a graduate of Michigan State University as well as the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Diggs is an entrepreneur, speaker, writer, and nearly lifelong resident of Michigan, which is why she feels a deep sense of responsibility to promote, protect, and develop the state for future generations.

Contact and Sponsorship Information

For the latest updates on the Buy Michigan Now campaign or sponsorship information, please visit www.BuyMichiganNow.com, or contact Lisa Diggs at (248) 390.0974 or email info@BuyMichiganNow.com.

Contact: Lisa Diggs, Buy Michigan Now, 248-390-0974, Lisa@BuyMichiganNow.com

Author: bmnadmin