The city of Roanoke will launch Open Rewards this fall, an app-based program that provides cash back to people who spend money in the community. Siale Langi, the city’s economic development manager, provided an overview of the program during the Sept. 22 city council meeting.
“We increase opportunities to support local businesses through facade grants and our special events,” Langi said. “We felt this may also be another opportunity to provide that support.”
The context
Open Rewards tracks purchases through uploading receipts or linking a debit card. A percentage of the spent total goes to the consumer, who can ultimately use a payout method to get cash back, according to city documents.
The program will launch in late October, offering 5% cash back on all purchases made at participating Roanoke food and retail businesses, city documents state. Langi said the city may start with Oak Street businesses, which have been impacted by construction.
