Camden has introduced a new initiative aimed at boosting its local economy by urging businesses to prioritize small, city-based vendors.
With billions of dollars in development investments flowing into the city and large corporations moving their headquarters to Camden, the time seems right for these businesses to demonstrate their support for local growth.
The city’s new program, “Buy Camden 1st,” encourages businesses to purchase goods and services from Camden-based enterprises, helping them grow and thrive.
This initiative is rather a movement to reinforce the resilience and diversity of Camden’s small businesses.
The hope is that by redirecting spending toward these businesses, large corporations and institutions will actively contribute to their success.
In July, the Camden City Council allocated up to $183,514 from the American Rescue Plan funds to DiLorenzo Davis Consulting and the Latin American Economic Development Association Inc. (LAEDA), kickstarting the project.
By the end of October, the “Buy Camden 1st” program had officially launched with an online platform at BuyCamden1st.com.
As of now, 73 businesses and nonprofits have registered on the site, representing various sectors, including manufacturing, retail, and hospitality.
Retail stores are the most common type of business listed, followed by restaurants, janitorial services, and consulting firms.
Businesses that wish to join the initiative can easily register online.
The program has received broad support from a variety of Camden-based community organizations.
Not to mention, local groups like the Haddon Avenue Business Association, Camden Lutheran Housing, and Heart of Camden have all endorsed the campaign.
“Buy Camden 1st” is a far cry from a digital platform—it’s a call to action for businesses in Camden to prioritize their local counterparts whenever possible.
To further validate businesses participating in the program, Camden also offers the “Camden Verified Business” designation.
This credential is available to businesses that meet specific criteria, and it is vetted and approved by LAEDA.
But this isn’t the first time Camden has worked to support its local economy.
A law passed in 2021 requires that at least 30% of the city’s spending on contracts for goods and services be directed toward local businesses within the 08101, 08102, 08103, 08104, and 08105 ZIP codes.
To qualify, a business must prove that 60% of its employees either live or work in these areas.
Through “Buy Camden 1st,” the city hopes to harness the purchasing power of large corporations to help small businesses thrive.
By prioritizing local spending, Camden aims to create a stronger, more connected community where small businesses can compete and succeed alongside global corporations.
