Corning, New York, is synonymous with Corning Inc., the global leader in glass and materials science technology. As the region’s largest employer, Corning Inc. powers much of the local economy. But with that influence comes responsibility: how do you ensure the company’s success also sustains the small businesses that make the community vibrant?

Rather than offering generic corporate perks or national gift cards, Corning Inc. chose a rewards program that keeps every dollar close to home. Partnering with the Corning Area Chamber of Commerce, they use the Corning Area Community Card powered by Yiftee to give employees rewards they can only spend at local shops, restaurants, and service providers.

When a single company employs a large portion of a community, it can unintentionally overshadow the independent businesses that give the town its character. In Corning, where the company’s name appears on buildings, streets, and cultural institutions, there was a growing concern that small businesses might be left behind.

With online shopping, national chains, and shifting consumer habits threatening Main Street vitality, local leaders and business owners needed a way to keep spending local and Corning Inc. recognized they could play a pivotal role in making that happen.

Corning Inc. purchases $50,000 of Community Cards with Yiftee, creating a centralized pool of funds. These cards are integrated directly into Corning’s employee recognition platform, where staff can redeem their reward credits. Those who choose it receive a digital card by email or text, ready to use from their phone’s mobile wallet. The card is accepted exclusively at approved local merchants ranging from family-owned eateries to salons and boutiques, ensuring every dollar stays in the greater Corning area.

The result? A simple, scalable way to show employee appreciation while strengthening the small business ecosystem.

Corning Inc. uses the cards for employee bonuses, thank-you gifts, holiday rewards, and other recognition programs. What began as a gesture of local support has evolved into a powerful economic development strategy that benefits both the workforce and the wider community.

The Community Card program has delivered significant and measurable benefits for Corning:

• Thousands of employees have received rewards in the form of Community Cards.
  
  
• On average, recipients overspend 30% beyond the card’s value, turning a $50 reward into more than $65 in local revenue.
  
  
• $50,000 of cards purchased by Corning Inc. to support local businesses.

For Corning Inc., the program strengthens employee engagement while reinforcing its values of innovation, inclusion, and community stewardship. It transforms corporate spending into community investment and proves that when big business acts local, everyone wins.

Want to bring this model to your own community?
If you’re an economic developer, city official, or chamber leader looking to keep corporate rewards local, Yiftee’s Community Card platform makes it easy. Schedule a demo and see how your largest employers can help build your smallest businesses.