Lake Tahoe is more than just the jewel of the Sierra Nevada—it’s a symbol of community and natural beauty. To protect it, the League has relaunched the Blue Business Program, building on years of collaboration to help businesses Keep Tahoe Blue.
What is the Blue Business Program?
First launched in 2015, the Blue Business Program invites local businesses to partner with us in our mission to protect Lake Tahoe. This reimagined version strengthens community-driven change with updated benefits and new opportunities for businesses to get involved. It’s not just a program; it’s an extension of the League’s mission to keep Tahoe beachable, bikeable, hikeable, boatable, skiable, and enjoyable for all.
Our Blue Business Partners are more than just members; they’re on-the-ground advocates who help educate their customers, support restoration efforts, and lead by example in sustainable operations. From restaurants to resorts, they help educate customers, support restoration efforts, and lead by example in sustainable practices.
Benefits for Lake Tahoe and the Community
Lake Tahoe faces significant environmental challenges, from pollution and climate change to aquatic invasive species and habitat degradation. The League aims to tackle these issues through science-based solutions, community engagement, and bold action. The Blue Business Program is a key part of that mission, leveraging business partnerships to amplify our impact.
Blue Businesses commit to actions like reducing single-use plastics, promoting waste reduction, and supporting restoration projects. These efforts help protect the Lake’s water quality and support vibrant wildlife, benefiting both residents and visitors.
Benefits for Our Partners
The League’s 60+ years of experience in advocacy, community outreach, and restoration directly supports partners to help them integrate best practices into their day-to-day operations. In this newly enhanced version of the program, we’ve expanded our partner benefits to include:
- Brand Recognition: Blue Businesses receive special recognition as champions of Tahoe’s environment. This includes a listing on the League’s website, a badge of partnership, and exposure through the League’s social media and promotional efforts. Community
- Community Engagement: Partners get exclusive opportunities to participate in League events, volunteer days, and community cleanups, giving businesses a hands-on way to contribute to local conservation efforts.
- Eco-Concious Network: We promote Blue Businesses to thousands of locals and visitors who care about sustainability, fostering stronger ties between businesses and eco-conscious consumers. As a partner, you’ll be able to network with other like-minded businesses, creating an environmentally responsible business community.
- Employee Engagement: The program provides employee engagement opportunities, such as team-building cleanups and sustainability training, that empower staff to take an active role in preserving Tahoe.
A Legacy of Stewardship
The League has partnered with businesses for decades, creating meaningful impacts beyond individual actions. The Blue Business Program empowers businesses to act as stewards of Lake Tahoe, supporting our science-to-solution approach.
Strategic Partnerships Manager Hailey Hawkins says, “We want every business, no matter where they are in their journey, to benefit from working with us and protect the Lake at the same time. Reciprocity is key to building lasting relationships that will Keep Tahoe Blue for generations.”
Businesses like Tahoe Art Haus and Cinema and the Beach Retreat and Lodge at Tahoe have already experienced the benefits of being a Blue Business. Their employees take pride in knowing they’re making a positive impact. Additionally, partners like Brewer’s Cabinet contribute financially through initiatives such as a “can-paign” that donates proceeds from the sale of Tahoe Blonde Ale directly to the League’s cleanup efforts.
Join Us in Keeping Tahoe Blue
We’re proud to relaunch the Blue Business Program and work with businesses that share our passion for Lake Tahoe. Whether you’re a small business owner or a larger enterprise, you can help create lasting change. Join us in preserving Tahoe’s beauty for generations to come.
Check out our Blue Business Program video to see the impact of our community-driven approach or learn more by visiting keeptahoeblue.org/bluebusiness.