Obsidian provides locally-owned, independent businesses with a community-wide loyalty program integrated into a payment method. Obsidian is the first free & open market for payments and value-added services. The Obsidian framework enables the creation of unique and innovative programs delivered with the payment experience. Obsidian’s first payment program, a "local first"​ payment card for communities, encourages local economic development by encouraging residents to shop locally where they work and play. Merchants receive powerful marketing capabilities, built-in loyalty, and easy acceptance. Residents choose their favorite way to pay — cash, debit, credit, or gift — and receive locals-only savings, all while earning rewards more valuable than those offered by traditional credit and debit cards.