Real Impact Real Monticello Real People

Behind every business across Minnesota and in your community are real people — owners, employees, and families — showing up every day to keep the lights on and serve their neighbors.

February is one of the toughest months of the year for many businesses and organizations. From February 22 - 28, we’re inviting Minnesotans to show up for the places that show up for us — the stores, restaurants, venues, and other community spaces that are part of everyday life.

When you support your community, the impact is real and immediate. Your dollars help cover payroll, pay the rent, and keep familiar doors open. They support local jobs and the places that make your neighborhood and community feel like home.

Every purchase made in the community during this week creates real impact, helping doors stay open, our neighbors stay employed, and organizations stay rooted right in your community — and across Minnesota.

The Real Impact, Real People, Real Community campaign is powered across the state by Minnesota Retailers, Hospitality Minnesota, local chambers of commerce, cities, neighborhood organizations , statewide associations and more! See the leadership steering committee here.

NEW! Show Up for Local. Get Rewarded.

During Real Impact, Real People, Real Community week (Feb. 22–28) supporting local is easy — and you could win while doing it. Visit any local business, snap a photo of yourself there, and share it on the Real Impact Facebook page (facebook.com/RealImpactMN) or tag your post with #RealImpactMN. Be sure to tag the business as well! Some communities are donating $50 in gift cards, and winners will be randomly selected the following week. Every visit makes a difference, every post helps lift up local businesses, and every share is a chance to win!

Interested in having your community participate?

We invite neighborhoods, chambers, cities, community organizations, and associations to join us in lifting up this week, using the campaign tools to promote participation and encourage people to show up for the places that matter most in their area. Click here to learn more!