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
At the Local Business Institute, we don’t talk about business as B to B or B to C. We talk about small, local business as H2H—Human to Human—because all small business is humans helping other humans. It’s why we all do what we do.
Our belief in local business goes even deeper. Read more.
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
Completed Projects
Programs
Why Should You Care?
Understanding the true impact of your intentional decisions Owner greets customer in front of store[/caption]So, why should you care? Because every time you choose local, you’re shaping the community you live in. You’re investing in people, not corporations. You’re...
Free Training for Local Business
Any Class, Any Time If you’ve ever considered online and on-demand training to grow your business, here’s a chance to get essential expert advice for free! The Local Business Institute has received a small grant that allows us to offer a full scholarship for...
Authenticity Is Your Local Business Superpower
Ecommerce business owners celebrating their success as young entrepreneurs in retail. Two business women making teamwork a priority as they run an online clothing store together.[/caption]We’re all bombarded with marketing messages. Some seem like they’re competing...
Hackers hunt small businesses daily. Are you exposed?
Join International Cyber Security Expert Mark Graff in this exceptional training for how to protect your business.
Free ‘Love Your Locals’ social media campaign for you
One of the ways the Local Business Institute works for you is providing social media campaigns throughout the year. It’s one…
How to Help Your Local Government Stop Buying from Amazon, Save Money, and Support Local Business
You’re invited! Friday, February 13, 2026, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. ET Join the Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR) on…
