Bryce Bandy and Chris Branson wanted to figure out a way to highlight the uniqueness of Oklahoma. The solution — give people discounts for shopping at local businesses.

Bandy and Branson created the Keep It Local OK card, a rewards program that gives members deals at local restaurants and boutiques. The card costs $10, and gives the buyer multiple discounts around the Oklahoma City and Norman.

When researching ideas, Branson found local initiative programs in other cities such as Austin and Portland, but he wanted to go beyond just a program and give people the tools to find local places.

The Keep It Local card began in Oklahoma City in January, and the majority of the participating businesses are still there. Now, Bandy and Branson are expanding the program to Moore, Edmond and Norman.

“I think it is a good fit with the culture of Norman and spending locally,” Bandy said.

Participating Norman businesses include Crimson & Whipped Cream, Interurban and Iron Starr Urban BBQ.

Buying local may be more expensive, but it’s worth it, Bandy said. Buying from local businesses is like buying from neighbors, and it gives money back to the community, he said.

The Keep It Local card is a calendar-year card so every year, a new one must be bought. Using the card two or three times usually pays for the card itself.

To purchase a card, visit keepitlocalok.com.