Winter Garden Promotes 'Living Local' to Boost Economy

Winter Garden is urging residents and business owners to embrace a 'Living Local' campaign designed to boost the community's economy. The initiative emphasizes how supporting local businesses strengthens Winter Garden, circulating money within the city and keeping neighborhoods vibrant.

The campaign offers several participation avenues. Business owners can pursue opportunities by bidding on city contracts, with details available on the City of Winter Garden's Bids and Contracts portal.

Residents seeking employment can also contribute to the local economy by working for the city. Winter Garden is hiring for career opportunities and offers a strong benefits package. Job openings are listed on the city's Jobs portal.

Supporting local businesses, particularly the more than 2,000 existing businesses, many of which are small and locally owned, remains central to the campaign. For every dollar spent locally, 45 cents remains in Winter Garden, compared to 13 cents spent at national chains. Residents can support these businesses year-round, with a particular focus on Small Business Saturday, held annually the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Businesses considering expansion in Winter Garden have resources available. Economic Development Director Marc Hutchinson, a key contact for growth opportunities, can be reached at 407-656-4111 x2306 or [email protected].

Downtown Winter Garden serves as a hub for community activities and events, particularly on weekends. The city sponsors numerous free events throughout the year, including the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration, Winter Garden Music Festival, Evening at the Pops, Spring Fever in the Garden, Arts in April, All American Kids Parade, Party in the Park, Halloween Experience, and Tis the Season programming. Upcoming events are listed on the city's website under Special Events and on the @DowntownWinterGarden social media channels.