Oneida County in partnership with Mohawk Valley EDGE, the Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce, Rome Area Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber Alliance of the Mohawk Valley and Oneida County Tourism are designating the week of June 29th as "Shop Small Business Week."

The coronavirus pandemic has devastated so many local businesses and as they regain their footing, with new restrictions, the week is about highlighting the importance of buying local."

"With so many businesses affected, it's now more important to shop at your local establishment than ever," Nick Bonomo, general manager at Bonomo's Dari Creme's said. "It's nice that we do have a great following and support of our local customers so get out there and support everybody that is open and local."

Bonomo says they have felt the impact of the coronavirus, especially because they are seasonal. He says Oneida County Shop Small Business Week is a great idea for every business in the area.

"That's great for our area, there's nothing better than supporting the small businesses," Bonomo said. "It's huge to keep the money within the area and keep our local economy going."

According to Oneida County's joint business impact survey, over 50% of Oneida County businesses were completely closed, almost all small businesses. 60% of these businesses lost at least 80% of their revenue while they were closed.

Every day will be a different theme.

Post your Shop Small purchases on social media for a chance to win local prizes by using the #LoyaltoLocal315 hashtag on your social media posts. Prizes include items from Almost Local, Liberty Car Wash, Universal Wellness, Saranac Brewery, Copper City Brewery, Edible Arrangements, Bonomo’s, Enchanted Forest Water Safari and Cayo Industrial Horror Realm.

You can find more details on Shop Small Business Week here.