Howard County spent $200,000 on Open Rewards app for local businesses | The Locally Times
The county-funded program provides 5% cash back on purchases at specific local merchants.
Howard County launched a cash-back program on July 22, 2026, using $200,000 from the FY25 Operating Budget to provide 5% rewards on purchases at participating local retailers and restaurants. Residents earn the rewards by downloading the Open Rewards app and linking a personal credit or debit card to the account. ## Program Mechanics The Open Rewards app tracks transactions at participating merchants automatically. Businesses identified by a Local HoCo seal participate in the network without paying fees or filing administrative forms. If a business appears in the app directory, it qualifies to provide the 5% reward. ## Eligibility Criteria Eligible merchants include members of Visit Howard County, Old Ellicott City, and entities registered with the Howard County Economic Development Authority. The county encourages businesses to participate in the Local HoCo marketing campaign, though the current directory limits participation to those meeting these specific organizational requirements. The records do not specify the total number of businesses currently enrolled or the geographic distribution of participating merchants. The county has not released a process for businesses not currently listed to request inclusion in the network. ## Fiscal Details County Executive Calvin Ball authorized the $200,000 allocation in the FY25 Operating Budget. The program coincides with the 2025 Summer Restaurant Weeks, though the county intends for the rewards to function as a permanent feature for retail, entertainment, and nonprofit contributions. The provided documentation does not outline metrics for measuring the program’s return on investment. Furthermore, the county has not clarified whether the $200,000 covers only initial startup costs or if the digital platform requires ongoing administrative fees. ## Key Questions **How do I earn the 5% cash back?** You must download the Open Rewards app and link a credit or debit card. Rewards apply automatically when you shop at participating Local HoCo merchants. **Does it cost businesses money to participate?** No, participating businesses do not pay fees or manage forms; they are included automatically if they are listed in the app. **What businesses qualify for the rewards?** Eligible businesses must be members of Visit Howard County, Old Ellicott City, or registered with the Howard County Economic Development Authority.