PONTIAC, Mich., — Oakland County will launch its 2026 Local Gems Sweepstakes Nov. 1, kicking off a monthlong campaign encouraging residents to shop local and support small businesses throughout Oakland County during the holiday shopping season.

The campaign launch event will be held Nov. 5 from 11 a.m. to noon at Andy’s Place in downtown Holly.

“Small businesses are the heart of our communities, creating local jobs, supporting families and giving our downtowns their unique character,” said Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter. “The Local Gems Sweepstakes is a fun way to encourage residents to discover new favorites and keep more of their spending in our communities this holiday season.”

Running Nov. 1-30, the Local Gems Sweepstakes invites shoppers to visit small businesses throughout Oakland County and post a selfie taken inside or outside each business for a chance to win $1,000, $500 or $250, courtesy of Genisys Credit Union.

Each selfie taken at a different small business counts as a separate entry. Participants may submit up to 10 different small businesses to increase their chances of winning the random drawing.

“Genisys Credit Union loves supporting the Local Gems Sweepstakes because it reminds our communities that shopping with small businesses is more than a transaction; it is what makes our communities vibrant with personality and character,” said Jackie Buchanan, president and CEO of Genisys Credit Union. “We encourage everyone to discover local gems and shop local this holiday season.”

The campaign is organized by Oakland County Economic Development, in partnership with Genisys Credit Union, Main Street Oakland County and Oakland Thrive. Since its creation, the Local Gems Sweepstakes has helped promote local spending and spotlight the small businesses that contribute to Oakland County’s diverse and vibrant economy.

In 2025, entrants came from 92 different Michigan communities. Lily’s Seafood in Royal Oak received the most entries, followed by Vibrant Vizionz in Oak Park, All About Women’s Health Boutique in Farmington, Havana Tacos & Burgers in Southfield and Lake Orion Bike & Adventure in Lake Orion.

“The Local Gems Sweepstakes gives residents a fun way to discover the small businesses that make our communities unique,” said Dom Holmes, director of Oakland County Economic Development. “Last year, more than 675 businesses across 46 Oakland County communities received at least one submission, showing how choosing local can make a real difference. We hope residents will take the opportunity this year to explore their communities and celebrate the businesses that make them special.”

Small-business owners can obtain Local Gems Sweepstakes posters and cards while supplies last, to help promote their businesses and encourage customer participation. Materials are available through Oakland County Economic Development.

For complete details and official rules, visit OaklandCountyMI.gov/ShopSmall.

Follow and share on social media using @AdvantageOak, #OaklandCounty and #LocalGemOC.