By now, many consumers understand the benefits that shopping local can have on their communities, but some still need an added incentive. Local businesses in Louisville, Ky., have joined forces to keep a little extra money in consumers’ pockets, and get a few more people through their doors, with the Louisville VIP Card.

Cards are available for three distinct areas of town: Highlands, Downtown, and St. Matthews/Frankfort Avenue. Cardholders are entitled to discounts and special privileges at all participating businesses—all day, every day throughout the year.

“It’s really exceeded where we thought we’d be,” says Rick Goldberg, a partner in the three-year-old program. They have 350 businesses signed on already, and are constantly adding more. It’s free for businesses to join, and they get free exposure through the program’s brochures and website.

Cards are available for purchase at Louisville VIP Card, and at many participating businesses. In addition to restaurants, grocery stores and salons, a number of arts-related businesses have joined the growing roster, including Glassworks gallery, which offers a 10% discount to all cardholders, and the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft, which offers buy-one-get-one-free admission.

Goldberg says he is interested in franchising the VIP Card program to other interested cities. Contact him at 502-561-1291 or info@louisvillevipcard.com to learn more.