A fundamental element of a complementary currency ecosystem is a place where users can purchase goods and services, ideally online. We have created a hybrid of Craigslist and eBay, taking the best from each. Each state will have its own marketplace, subdivided into one or more local markets. All of the active state marketplaces can be seen here.

So, how does our marketplace compare to Craigslist and eBay?

Craigslist is actually just an advertising site. Interested buyers and sellers can connect there, but any purchases take place offline. A key upside is that it lists goods and services available locally, but the downside is that credit or debit cards can rarely be used to make the purchase. 

eBay offers items that can be purchased online using cards and digital payment systems like PayPal, and on a more limited basis, wire transfers from U.S. banks. However, unlike Craigslist, those purchasable items can come from just about anywhere, and almost always have to be shipped to the buyer. That does little to stimulate local commerce that would benefit the communities within a particular state.

Since our complementary currencies are regionally based (each state has its own currency), purchases will almost always be made locally. That requires an eBay-like trading platform that is regionally centered like Craigslist. Our state-based marketplaces allow for the neighbor to neighbor sales online using our currencies, plus the bonus of being able to use credit and debit cards to purchase more currency if needed.