What is the purpose of a giveaway? I recently bought two locally made nutrition bars, called Baraka Bars, at Whole Foods because the representative from the company was giving away samples. I was unaware that a company in Austin, Texas is making delicious, healthy snacks. Giveaways build brand awareness.

Giveaways—particularly when you have a quality product—also spread positive word of mouth. People tell people, “Hey did you hear that cool company is giving away artwork?” Grassroots marketing’s greatest goal: the buzz. When the buzz gets out of hand, hits critical mass, like the smallest radioactive particle setting off a nuclear chain reaction—BOOM—you have achieved grassroots marketing’s greatest coup: going viral.

This week we received photos from our very first winners of the $1000.00 shopping spree.

The winners did everything textbook: fanned us on facebook, followed us on twitter, tweeted the contest link, tweeted winning, shot pictures of artwork hanging in their home. We couldn’t be happier. And while we’d love to go viral such as the US Marine Lady Gaga spoof or the Will it Blend videos, seeing our artwork actually hanging in a newly remodeled house, feels really good. It’s a very cool giveaway, viral or not.

Congratulations to all the winners of our weekly giveaway: Aimee and Greg Randle- April 23rd, Diane Myers- May 30th, Chrstina Zumbado- May 7th, and Kathy McMullen- May 14th

Now tell all your friends; let’s get this thing viral, ya’ll! Sign Up