Fairfax City Boosts Local Businesses with ‘Small Business Month’ & Digital Gift Card Program

FAIRFAX CITY, VA – November 12, 2025 – Fairfax City is launching its annual ‘Holiday Small Business Month’ today, alongside a continued push for its innovative Flex Card digital gift card program, aimed at bolstering the local economy and supporting the city’s vital small businesses. The initiative arrives at a crucial time, as many businesses navigate ongoing economic pressures and prepare for the critical holiday shopping season.

This year’s ‘Holiday Small Business Month’ builds on the success of previous campaigns, offering a concentrated effort to encourage residents to ‘shop local’ and prioritize businesses within the city limits. The centerpiece of this year’s strategy remains the Flex Card, a digital gift card accessible via smartphone and designed to keep spending circulating within the Fairfax City economy.

“The Flex Card is more than just a gift card; it’s an investment in our community,” explained a spokesperson for the Fairfax City Economic Development (FCED). “Every dollar spent with a Flex Card stays within Fairfax City, benefiting our local businesses, creating jobs, and strengthening our economic foundation.”

A Proven Strategy for Local Economic Growth

The Flex Card program isn’t new. FCED has consistently renewed the initiative, demonstrating its perceived effectiveness. Initially launched in 2023, and continuing through this year’s ‘Holiday Small Business Month’, the program offers a 40% bonus on all Flex Card purchases, essentially giving shoppers extra purchasing power while simultaneously injecting capital into the local economy. The card is accepted at over 55 businesses across a diverse range of sectors, including dining, retail, wellness, and professional services.

“The 40% bonus is a powerful incentive,” says a local business owner who wished to remain anonymous. “It encourages people to try new businesses and spend a little extra, which makes a real difference for us, especially during the slower months.”

Beyond the financial incentive, the Flex Card’s digital format offers convenience and accessibility for both shoppers and businesses. The card can be easily stored in digital wallets like Apple Wallet and Google Wallet, eliminating the need for physical gift cards and streamlining the transaction process.

Navigating Economic Headwinds

The push for local spending comes at a critical juncture for many small businesses. While consumer spending remains relatively robust, ongoing economic challenges, including inflation, supply chain disruptions, and rising interest rates, continue to weigh on businesses. FCED recognizes these challenges and views ‘Holiday Small Business Month’ and the Flex Card program as essential tools for mitigating their impact.

“We’re seeing a lot of pressure on small businesses right now,” stated a representative from the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce. “Federal spending cuts and tariffs are starting to bite, and businesses are feeling the pinch. Initiatives like this are vital for providing a much-needed boost.”

Fairfax City isn't alone in recognizing the importance of supporting local businesses. Across the nation, communities are implementing similar strategies, including ‘shop local’ campaigns, business passport programs, and community gift card programs. Studies consistently show that supporting local businesses has a significant multiplier effect on the economy. For every $100 spent at a locally owned business, approximately $68 stays within the community, compared to just $43 at a national chain.

A Collaborative Effort
The success of ‘Holiday Small Business Month’ relies on a collaborative effort between FCED, the Central Fairfax Chamber of Commerce, the Old Town Fairfax Business Association, and the city’s businesses themselves. FCED provides marketing support and promotional materials, while the chambers of commerce facilitate networking opportunities and advocacy efforts. Businesses are encouraged to participate by offering special promotions and engaging with customers on social media.

“It's really a team effort,” stated a representative from the Old Town Fairfax Business Association. “We all share a common goal: to create a thriving local economy that benefits everyone.”

Looking Ahead

FCED plans to continue the Flex Card program and ‘Holiday Small Business Month’ in the years to come, adapting its strategies as needed to meet the evolving needs of the business community. The organization is also exploring new initiatives, such as providing grants and loans to small businesses and offering training programs to help them adapt to changing market conditions.

“We’re committed to providing a supportive environment for our local businesses,” said Christopher Bruno, CEO and President of FCED. “They are the heart and soul of our community, and we will continue to work tirelessly to help them thrive.”

Residents are encouraged to participate in ‘Holiday Small Business Month’ by shopping local, utilizing the Flex Card, and spreading the word about their favorite Fairfax City businesses. A complete list of participating businesses and more information about the Flex Card program can be found on the FCED website.

By prioritizing local spending, Fairfax City is investing in its future and ensuring that its small businesses continue to flourish for years to come.