Building on Success: Elsa EDC Launches the Next Phase of the Elsa Digital Facade Program
When the Elsa Economic Development Corporation introduced its first business development initiative in 2024, the goal was simple: give local entrepreneurs practical tools they could use to grow stronger businesses. The response exceeded expectations. Business owners from across the community participated in the free program, gained new skills, and were recognized with Certificates of Completion for their commitment to investing in their businesses.
Now, the Elsa EDC is taking the next step.
As the second phase of that effort, the Elsa EDC has launched the Elsa Digital Facade Program, a free AI-powered initiative designed to help local businesses strengthen their online presence, attract more customers, and compete in today’s digital economy.
Today’s customers often form an opinion about a business long before they walk through the front door. They search online, browse photos, read reviews, check business hours, and compare options—all within a matter of minutes. A business’s digital presence has become an extension of its storefront, making it one of the most important factors in earning a customer’s trust.
Recognizing this shift, the Elsa EDC developed the Digital Facade Audit, a free tool that gives business owners a clear picture of how they appear online. By simply entering their business name, owners receive an instant Digital Facade Score in about 60 seconds, along with a personalized report highlighting opportunities to improve everything from online listings and reviews to business information, photos, and overall visibility.
The assessment was created to answer a question many business owners have: How does my business look to someone finding me online for the first time?
Instead of guessing where improvements are needed, business owners receive a practical roadmap they can begin implementing right away. Those who want additional guidance can also schedule a complimentary one-on-one consultation with the Elsa EDC team to review their results and create a customized action plan aimed at achieving a Digital Facade Score of 90% or higher.
Research continues to show the importance of maintaining a strong online presence. Businesses with a fully completed Google Business Profile receive significantly more clicks and more in-store visits than businesses with incomplete or outdated information. For many customers, that first online search determines where they’ll spend their money.
“Our local businesses work incredibly hard every day, and we want to make sure they’re just as competitive online as they are in person,” said Daniel Rivera, Executive Director of the Elsa EDC. “The Digital Facade Assessment gives business owners an easy way to understand where they stand, while providing practical recommendations they can use to reach more customers. It’s another example of how we’re using technology to create opportunities for our business community.”
The Elsa Digital Facade Program reflects the Elsa EDC’s continued commitment to providing meaningful resources that help entrepreneurs succeed. By combining technology, personalized support, and hands-on guidance, the organization is building on the momentum of its 2024 program and expanding the ways it supports local businesses.
Best of all, the program is completely free for Elsa businesses.
Business owners can receive their complimentary Digital Facade Assessment today by visiting facade.elsaedc.com. After reviewing their personalized report, they can schedule a free consultation with the Elsa EDC team to discuss their results and develop a plan for continued growth.
As more customers turn to the internet before making purchasing decisions, having a strong digital presence has become an essential part of running a successful business. Through programs like the Elsa Digital Facade initiative, the Elsa EDC is helping ensure that Elsa businesses have the tools they need to stand out, connect with customers, and continue growing for years to come.
