This bingo game rewards you for shopping locally this holiday season

Megan Raposa -

This is a paid partnership with Voyage Federal Credit Union and Sioux Falls Simplified.

Simplified: Sioux Falls Simplified is bringing a new, fun, competitive way to encourage folks to shop locally this holiday season. Here's what you need to know about the "BIN-GO Shop Locally" game.

Why it matters

  • Supporting local businesses pays dividends for the community. For every $100 spent at a local business, about $57 stays in the community – compared to $13 spent at a chain, according to data from the American Independent Business Alliance.
  • Additionally, many local retailers are having a tough year. During the pandemic, there was a rush of support for small businesses, but that momentum has fallen off during a time when the cost of doing business keeps getting higher and higher.
  • The BIN-GO Shop Locally game is one small way we can help. It's a bit goofy, a bit gimmicky, but at the end of the day, it's all about reminding you that – as easy as it is to click "add to cart" online – there's real benefit (and prizes at stake) when you shop at a local store instead.

How does it work?

Step one: Pick up a bingo card at one of our participating retailers.

  • A quick note: Since this is the inaugural year, we're keeping things simple by focusing on downtown businesses.

Step two: Fill out your bingo card.

  • You can go for a classic BINGO or strive to get a blackout – the more you do, the more support it'll be for small businesses.
  • It's also worth noting that not every square on the bingo card requires you to spend money. There are several ways to support a local retailer, including leaving reviews, sharing social media posts, and more.

Step three: Return your bingo card to any participating retailer. Cards must be returned by Dec. 2 in order to be eligible for prizes.

Step four: See if you win! Winners will be drawn on Dec. 3.

What can I win?

One grand prize winner will receive a $250 DTSF, Inc. gift card (which can be spent at a number of downtown businesses).

There will also be a number of smaller prizes including gift cards, theater tickets, Sioux Falls Simplified swag, and more.

Who's behind this?

The inaugural BIN-GO Shop Locally game is sponsored by Voyage Federal Credit Union.

  • Right now – and through the holiday shopping season – you can earn double points on every purchase with a Voyage credit card.

Show me a full list of participating businesses:

  • Alcove
  • Matchbox Candle Co.
  • The Tail That Got Away
  • Juliana's Boutique
  • Full Circle Book Co-Op
  • Primp Boutique
  • Lauriebelle's
  • Mint + Basil
  • Terra Shepherd Boutique & Apothecary
  • Say Anything Jewelry
  • 605 Running Company
  • HiFi Hair
  • Rose & Eugene Presents
  • Sticks and Steel
  • IV Club
  • Combine
  • Serendipity Studio
  • The Spice and Tea Exchange
  • MK Threads
  • Voyage Federal Credit Union (see all locations here)

What happens next?

Go forth, shop, and win.