About Us

A Brief History of Think Local Umpqua

In the fall of 2007, Michael Shuman, author of The Small-Mart Revolution, spoke to nearly 40 business owners and community members at the Umpqua Community College. In early 2008 nearly half of them came together around a common concern: we want to educate the community about the importance of supporting local businesses and independent farmers. In an era where downtown shopping districts increasingly fall victim to homogenous chains and franchises, they collectively recognized the need to promote and strengthen our locally owned business community.
Over the next year, Think Local Umpqua held a series of benefit concerts and public speaking engagements to build its base. If the community rallied around locally owned businesses, everyone would benefit: that was the mantra. Monthly meetings were established to share ideas and the momentum kept building. By 2009, Think Local Umpqua had a website and published the first local guide to independent businesses in Douglas County, one-of-a-kind.

Think Local Umpqua has seen a successful surge in community interest. Nearly three years later, it has grown to over 300 members, all of whom understand the link between a unique, thriving local economy and a unique, thriving locale.  It’s a simple concept, really: what goes around, comes around. It’s about building our community together!

Plans for 2012 and 2013

The Think Local Umpqua advisory board has outlined a tangible roadmap to develop community awareness of the advantages and benefits of supporting independent and locally owned businesses. Part of this roadmap includes extensive public education, outreach campaigns, additional member resources, and signature events.

Contacting Think Local Umpqua

For more information about Think Local Umpqua, please send us an email with your contact information and a representative will respond promptly.

To become a member, please review the criteria and complete the Application Form on the Become a Member page.