Backed by Downtown Oshkosh Inc., the new Downtown Oshkosh Gift Card is a high-tech physical Gift Card which is swiped at the till by participating local businesses, with the balance on the card automatically updated. Card recipients can also check their balance using the QR code on the back of the card.
Colleen Bies, Executive Director at Downtown Oshkosh Inc. explains that the new Downtown Oshkosh Gift Card replaces the previous BID Gift Cards.
“Our old program was cumbersome. Though it was a physical card vs. paper, it required manual operation and reimbursements to the businesses. We wanted a Gift Card that people would be excited to buy, and that consumers and organizations alike could buy as gifts and rewards. With the new Downtown Oshkosh Gift Card in hand, recipients can visit the downtown and experience the unique locally owned businesses we have here.
“The Gift Card will also be ideal for visitors to spend time with us, from people attending the annual EAA AirVenture to those from neighboring cities visiting OshKosh to shop. The Downtown Oshkosh Gift Card is our chance to show it’s all happening now downtown.”
Oshkosh businesses accepting the Downtown Oshkosh Gift Card include Reimer Jewelers and The Artful Gift. Rachel from Reimer Jewelers said:
“Reimer Jewelers is a jewelry store that specializes in custom jewelry, jewelry repair and stock pieces while The Artful Gift focuses on gifts that are functional art. We also strive to support several local artists in store as well. Both stores participated in the old Gift Card program because we feel, as a downtown business, that we must support our local downtown economy and that includes our local Gift Card. Now that the program is new and improved it only makes sense for us to continue the support of the downtown economy.
“I feel that since the process is easier that more stores should be open to the program, expanding the use of the Downtown Oshkosh Gift Card and further strengthening the downtown economy.”
Art Haus is another business ready to accept the new Downtown Oshkosh Gift Card. Jim said:
“Art Haus opened for business on July 7th 1992. My business serves a unique clientele; you are either an artist or are needing something framed. Both of these are hard to do if you are buying a gift for someone else. If you come into my store and have no idea on what to get that special someone, a Gift Card is the perfect answer. The new Downtown Oshkosh Gift Card program can bring several benefits to Downtown Oshkosh by encouraging more local spending and boosting foot traffic to small businesses.
“By keeping dollars circulating within the community, the Gift Card supports local shops, restaurants, and services, helping them grow and stay competitive. It also provides a convenient and flexible gift option for residents and visitors, making it easier to explore and support a variety of downtown businesses. Additionally, the program can foster a stronger sense of community pride and connection, reinforcing Downtown Oshkosh as a vibrant destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.”
Barb from Brinkleys Boutique says they are looking forward to accepting the new card:
“Brinkleys Boutique is a women’s clothing store featuring sizes extra small - extra large. We also have a selection of men’s clothing for the fashion forward guy! We look forward to using this easy form of payment to customers who love supporting the small business owners in the Downtown Oshkosh business district. This user friendly Gift Card is a quick and easy way to help make your shopping experience fun.”
Downtown Oshkosh Inc. is encouraging people who have an old style Downtown Gift Card to spend their card during 2025, or to exchange it for the new high-tech Downtown Oshkosh Gift Card at the Downtown Oshkosh Inc. office to experience the added benefits of the new Gift Card.
The Downtown Oshkosh Gift Card program is part of the Downtown Gift Card concept from fintech Miconex active across the USA and Canada, in partnership with EML Payments.
The Downtown Oshkosh Gift Card is issued by Pathward®, N.A., Member FDIC. Funds do not expire, are non-reloadable, and have no cash access. For Cardholder Agreement or Customer Service: www.getmybalance.com or 1-833-558-1088.
Pathward®, N.A., a national bank, is a subsidiary of Pathward Financial, Inc. (Nasdaq: CASH). Pathward is focused on financial access and strives to increase financial availability, choice and opportunity across our Partner Solutions and Commercial Finance business lines. The strategic business lines provide support to individuals and businesses. Learn more at Pathward.com.