The Local Business Institute Virtual Campus is a lifeline for small business owners searching for real relief, practical resources, and a caring community. Every feature—from weekly live office hours to a vast array of targeted training—is designed to meet you where you are, with the tools and support needed to grow, adapt, and thrive in an ever-changing landscape.
The trainings are both comprehensive and compassionate, recognizing the weight business owners often carry. “Managing Crisis in Your Business” gives you more than theory; it bundles expert guidance, a customized toolkit, and even one-on-one coaching so you can walk away with a personalized crisis plan. With “New Thinking for Greater Success,” you’re guided through six profound steps to uncover new opportunities, analyze your markets, and develop a roadmap for growth. The focus is on actionable ideas—not just inspiration, but real steps you can take.
Courses like “The Small Business Talent Magnet” and “The Big Payoff of Shifting to Worker-Owned” help businesses navigate workforce management and succession with practical, modern approaches. Leadership development is a cornerstone, with classes such as “6 Guiding Principles to Being a Better Leader,” offering tailored tips and insights that address real-world small business realities.
Weekly Office Hours put you in direct contact with experienced coaches ready to answer your questions, offer guidance, and provide encouragement. This is more than a Q&A—it’s a safe space for honest conversations about daily business challenges, so you never feel alone in your journey.
Nonprofit and community-focused entrepreneurs will find deep support through the LocalFirst Community series, with step-by-step guidance on organizing, funding, and growing associations, as well as expanding through powerful partnerships and sponsorships. Each segment is packed with concrete strategies for building capacity—and doing it sustainably.
The Local Business Institute alsooffers a versatile collection of Digital Downloads designed to provide small business owners with practical tools and ready-to-use resources. From free social media campaign kits like “Choose to Live Local” and “Love Your Locals” that help drive community engagement and sales, to affordable guides on leadership and creating inclusive, safe business spaces, these downloadable products make marketing, management, and community-building easier without added cost or hassle. Each digital download empowers businesses to connect authentically with customers and grow with confidence.
No matter where you are in your business journey, the Virtual Campus offers a much-needed sense of relief and empowerment—rooted in connection, backed by experience, and dedicated to your success. What are you waiting for?
