City Signs LOI For ‘Buy Local’ Mobile APP

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The Youngstown Board of Control approved measures Nov. 12 that would lead to the development of a “buy local” mobile app to encourage support for small businesses here.

The board approved a letter of intent with Colu Technologies that commits the city to enter into an agreement under which Colu would customize and license the app for no more than $15,000.

Colu Technologies, based in Tel Aviv, Israel, is a software company that specializes in providing cities with civic engagement platforms, according to its website.

The company provides a customized mobile app to promote local businesses that allows them “the same powerful tools big brands are using, such as analytics, reporting and more,” according to its website.

An app for the Port of Jaffa, for instance,  partnered with the municipality to offer a 30% cash-back reward.