What does the
Local Business Institute do?
Part think tank, part school, part national leadership, part training ground for local leadership, the Institute is home to local leaders from across the country. Through online and on-demand programs, special projects, distance learning, virtual and live conferences, lectures and events, we work to foster local, national and even global conversations around entrepreneurship and local economies. We bring substantial resources to entrepreneurs of all ages and stages.
Get involved!
Take the Live Local Pledge
Join the LocalFirst Community
Take essential training with a Business Bundle on the LBI Virtual Campus
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
Completed Projects
Programs
The Humanity of Small Business
You may think business exists to make money. But it doesn’t. Profit is a byproduct of our labors to provide the necessities and desires of our community. Business exists for us, not the other way around. Although it can often feel that way. There was a time when many...
It Takes a Village
At the Local Business Institute, we represent you—the small, local business owner. But we don't do it alone. It takes a village, or at least a strong cohort of organizations working on your behalf. We're proud to be a part of several national entities that amplify our...
Local Business Must (and Can) Ride the Economic Rapids
As I talk to local businesses and local leaders throughout the country, I am struck by one thing—economic uncertainty breeds fear. Fear can be a great motivator. It forces us think differently, try new ideas and stretch beyond our comfort zones. But fear is very close...
Positioning Your Buy Local Organization (and your business) for Economic Uncertainty
Contributed article by Colin Murray As economic uncertainty looms, many local business owners are feeling anxious about the future—and for good reason. Experts are warning of a potential recession ahead, and history tells us when the economy tightens, small businesses...
Live Training: The Big Payoff of Shifting to Worker-Owned
Join us for this special live training May 13 & 20, 1:30pm CT • Only 12 Seats Available Considering transitioning out of your business? 67% of small business owners are over 56! That represents a tidal wave of transition in the next 20 years—often called the...
Marketing Idea: Declare Your Store a Tariff-Free Zone!
One of our LocalFirst Community members, Colin Murray, owner of Kylie's Gift Cottage and former director of Dane Buy Local, shared a clever idea to declare your business a "Tariff-Free Zone" It's an attention-grabbing way to position your store as a place where...
