Effective November 1, 2026, Grow Clinton will terminate the River City Gold Program and will no longer issue River City Gold local currency. This decision was not made lightly. I recommended this action to the Grow Clinton Board of Directors, and the Board supported the recommendation at its September 23, 2026, meeting.
River City Gold issued before November 1, 2026, will continue to be honored by Grow Clinton member businesses that choose to accept it. However, all River City Gold checks will expire on the date printed on each individual check. We encourage anyone holding River City Gold to use it before the stated expiration date and to support the local businesses that have participated in the program.
We recognize that River City Gold has been leveraged by member businesses of all sizes and has served as a meaningful way to encourage local spending throughout the Greater Clinton Region. At the same time, ongoing program management, along with the continuing education needed to ensure local member businesses understand and accept the checks as cash, has impeded the program’s growth and long-term sustainability.
Grow Clinton remains deeply committed to encouraging residents, employers, organizations, and visitors throughout the region to support locally owned and operated businesses. As part of that commitment, Grow Clinton is creating a database of member businesses offering gift cards. This resource will provide another convenient way for individuals and organizations to keep dollars circulating locally while supporting the businesses that strengthen our communities and regional economy.
We understand this transition may create questions for members, businesses, and River City Gold holders. If you have questions, please contact the Grow Clinton office at (563) 242-5702.
Thank you to our nearly 500 members for your continued support, partnership, and understanding as we phase out River City Gold. Grow Clinton remains focused on advancing the sustainable economic success of the Greater Clinton Region and supporting the businesses, employers, and communities that make our region strong.
Andy Sokolovich
President & CEO, Grow Clinton
