Presentations and Workshops
Our presentations and workshops are more than informative -- they invariably inspire action and help it start in an organized and effective way. Whether you aim to educate local officials or members of your organization, launch a local campaign, or energize an existing one, we'll design a program to meet your needs.
AMIBA's workshops are flexible and can be geared toward business owners, economic development officials, specific interest groups or broad cross-sections of a community.
Only AMIBA's workshops are presented by people with years of experience actually organizing local Alliances. Many are led by Jeff Milchen or Jennifer
Rockne, AMIBA's co-founders and former directors of the nation's first IBA. Worshops may be combined with
consultations, media interviews, meetings with key individuals -- however we
can best serve your needs during a visit.
Dozens of community groups, trade groups, universities, and others have seen the results of our programs, and we're happy to put you in touch with them. Please contact us to discuss your specific needs and get information on scheduling and costs. We suggest inquiring at least four months ahead of your preferred event dates. AMIBA affiliates
get a substantial discount on our presentation fee!
Click here for Upcoming Events
Strength In Numbers
This workshop provides participants an up-close look at how the IBA functions and the many valuable lessons we've learned through experience. It also describes AMIBA and our role in helping IBAs nationwide succeed. We include lots of Q&A and discussion time. (Click title for outline)Communities at Risk
It's more than just keeping local businesses thriving. This workshop opens a discussion on the underlying issues precipitating the need for vigilance and Independent Business Alliances as a means for preserving community character. We'll look at the local as well as global issues that create a less-than-level playing field. Issues discussed include the mythical "free market," government subsidies, the political arena, why organizations purporting to be friends of independent business aren't, tools citizens can use at the local level and more. It's a great springboard into a discussion of the IBA as a model for change.
(Click title for outline)Designing and Executing a Buy Local Campaign
This presentation is designed for organizations wishing to integrate a Buy Local campaign into their existing program or for communities looking for a solid step toward launching an Independent Business Alliance. We cover message crafting and delivery, include numerous examples and discuss other considerations. (Click title for outline)
AMIBA also conducts keynotes and facilitates debates more broadly focused on topics such as "The Myth of the Business Interest," detailing the chasm between policies geared to benefit large corporations vs. the interests of independent businesses. Please inquire for details.