Open Rewards App Unveiled At Kickoff For 2025 Summer Restaurant Weeks

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Officials kicked off the 2025 Summer Restaurant Weeks and announced the launch of the Open Rewards app this week.

The new Open Rewards App rewards consumers with 5% cash back on purchases at local businesses that are members of Visit Howard County, Old Ellicott City and are registered with the Howard County Economic Development Authority. Rewards can be redeemed at any other businesses in the program.

Shoppers simply download the Open Rewards app, link a credit or debit card, and start earning rewards automatically with every eligible purchase at a Local HoCo merchant. No punch cards, QR codes or receipts are required, officials said. Participating businesses are identified with the Local HoCo seal signifying their participation in this rewarding initiative. Businesses don't need to sign up or pay any participation fees—if they’re listed on the app, they’re in, officials noted. There are no forms to fill out or programs to manage.

"Howard County’s small businesses are the heart of our economy and our community. With the launch of the innovative new Open Rewards program and our 2025 Summer Restaurant Weeks, we are making it easier than ever to shop and dine local. Every dollar spent at a family-owned shop, neighborhood restaurant, or Main Street boutique helps support our entrepreneurs, create jobs and keep resources right here in Howard County. Together, these partnerships ensure that our small and local businesses continue to thrive," stated Howard County Executive Calvin Ball at a news conference.

All Howard County businesses can participate in this campaign to showcase local goods and services and encourage consumers to shop, dine, eat, drink, play, stay and give local. According to Visit Howard County, for every $100 spent at a local business, $68 remained in the local community, while only $43 of each $100 spent at a chain retailer stays in the community.

“We are more excited than ever to deliver a rewards program built around our local economy,” Amanda Hof, executive director of Visit Howard County, said at the news conference. “The timing of Howard County Restaurant and Craft Beverage Weeks is perfect for launching Open Rewards, giving residents and visitors an immediate reason to explore and support our culinary scene. Even better—Open Rewards subscribers can continue earning rewards after Restaurant Weeks on purchases across the county, from retail and entertainment to attractions and even contributions to nonprofit organizations.”

Tricia Hudson, co-owner, Hudson Coastal Raw Bar & Grille, and president of the Visit Howard County board, said at the news conference that Howard County Restaurant Weeks is the "perfect time to enjoy cuisine you would never consider with your current rotation of favorite restaurants."

"Expand your palate with options from around the globe, like Middle Eastern, Indian or Korean,” she said. “So not only are you going to experience new plates of delicious food, but you will also be supporting your communities and small businesses.”

Related:

Howard County Summer Restaurant Weeks 2025: See Over 50 Participating Eateries