DENVER, CO -- Finding locally-owned, independent businesses is about to get a lot easier.   The Colorado Local First campaign, a project of the OED-supported Mile High Business Alliance, will celebrate its launch on Saturday, May 24th with an interactive online business directory and launch celebration. 

The campaign aims to raise awareness in the Denver community about the importance of supporting local business—for the environment, the economy and the community. The online directory will allow consumers to look at how each business impacts our region by highlighting their business practices, providing information on a wide array of environmental, social and standard business issues.

 “We want to build relationships between Coloradoans and their local businesses,” says Mickki Langston, Executive Director of the Mile High Business Alliance. “When consumers choose to spend their dollars at Colorado – owned businesses, significantly more money re-circulates in our region, new jobs are created, and more money is invested in community projects.  Providing these resources makes buying local fun and easy.”

As the campaign continues, t-shirts, stickers, counter-cards and window decals will be distributed to local retail shops, restaurants and other businesses this summer to raise awareness and identify campaign partners.

The launch of the Colorado Local First Campaign will be celebrated at the D-Note in Old Town Arvada on May 24th.  The kick-off party begins at 4pm and will feature live music from local bands, local food, and door prizes from local businesses.  Tickets are $5.00 in advance and can be purchased online at www.coloradolocalfirst.com.

For more information on the Colorado Local First campaign, the Mile High Business Alliance, and May 24th launch celebration, please contact Mickki Langston at (303) 872-5646 or visit www.coloradolocalfirst.com