New Incentive Program Offers Cash Back For Shopping, Eating Local In Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Like a credit card with cash back rewards, Alexandrians can now earn cash back by spending their dollars at locally-owned businesses.

The new ALX Open Rewards program has been launched by the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership. Through the pilot program, residents and visitors will earn cash rewards by shopping and dining at participating locally-owned businesses.

"Bringing Open Rewards to Alexandria is a way to promote the many amazing small businesses that our City is known for and to encourage everyone here to support local," said Cristina Amoruso, Alexandria Economic Development Partnership's director of small business and entrepreneurship. "We’re looking forward to helping businesses boost customer awareness while offering locals a new way to shop and small."

The rewards program is offered through the Bludot Open Rewards app. To participate, shoppers can download the app and sign up for a free account. Shoppers will connect their payment cards or submit receipts to earn rewards. Once rewards are earned, they can be applied toward purchases at local businesses.

There is no cost to businesses or shoppers to participate, as Alexandria Economic Development Partnership is funding the program.