Starting an Independent Business Alliance® or "Buy Independent, Buy Local" Campaign
We suggest the following steps to get you started:
1. Order a portfolio
Our portfolio provides a snapshot of what an IBA can do for a community and its locally-owned businesses. It's a great tool to quickly show others in your community what IBAs can do when you're recruiting help to get started. (If you already plan to affiliate, a portfolio is included in your start-up package). It includes:
- Many sample materials from active IBAs, including logos, a local business directory, cup design, window decals, bumper stickers, and image and issue ads
- Examples of ways IBAs use the media as well as articles by or about AMIBA
- Information on AMIBA presentations and trainings -- the next recommended step to catalyze action locally
- AMIBA's Recommended Resources list
- Details on suggested next steps to get your local Alliance started
Cost = $20 (includes priority mail shipping) Send your check or money order payable to:
AMIBA, 222 S. Black Ave., Bozeman, MT 59715
Or order with your credit card securely online via PayPal:
2. Arouse Local Interest
* Contact us to see if we have received other interest from your community. Several IBAs have launched from the interest of citizens in a given community who didn't know each other previously -- we just shared their contact information with each other.
* Show your information portfolio to others you think should know about an IBA and might want to be part of it -- particularly those who are good candidates for an initial steering committee. You want support and organizing help from the outset. Visit folks individually or convene prospects at an informal gathering or in a more formal meeting. Remember: IBAs are comprised of local business owners, citizens and community organizations -- include each in your initial recruitment efforts!
* Write a letter to the editor of your local paper indicating your interest in getting something going. Such a letter can draw out numerous potential allies. Contact us for help (no charge) in crafting your letter to generate maximum response or for samples. For skilled writers, we're happy to help you craft a more in-depth op-ed article.
* Bring in an expert from AMIBA for a presentation and organizers' training. Your effort gains instant credibility when your audience recognizes a national movement is afoot and the compelling success stories from IBAs around the country will inspire folks to action. AMIBA affiliates get a 50% discount on our presentations, and any group that affiliates within 90 days following a presentation will receive the discount retroactively.
*Does not apply to existing organizations.
3. Affiliate with AMIBA
Once you decide to start an IBA in your community, affiliate with AMIBA to get a package of starter materials including our posters and window decals, access to a huge array of resources, and the ongoing advisory support of AMIBA's expert staff and dozens of other groups like yours. AMIBA is an organization of, by and for local groups supporting their independent businesses and communities.
Contact us for application and affiliation or see our benefits for details.
Independent Business Alliance is a registered mark of
the American Independent Business Alliance.
Affiliation includes license to use the name.
Once we receive your application, we immediately send you your start-up kit to get you on your way!