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Why Shop Locally?

Your choices do make a difference

Locally-owned, independent businesses are the backbone of our local economy and the foundation of Austin’s unique culture. But local business is more than an economic powerhouse. It is the direct response of neighbors to the needs of other neighbors. It is the storefront of our hopes and dreams as individuals and as a community. Entrepreneurs embrace their talents with a passion that feeds both their endeavors and our culture. From the unique shops to the musicians (independent businesses one and all) to the entrepreneurial spirit that exudes the attitude that anything can be done—local business makes it happen every day.

Local, independent businesses give back to our community by collectively being the largest donors to local nonprofits. From hosting community events to embracing a more sustainable environment, these businesses are part of the core of this fabulous place we call Austin.

Your purchasing choices have a huge impact on Austin. Be a part of the movement. Let IndieAustin and AIBA be your guide to think local, be local, buy local. Begin by shifting your thinking, then take action to move your purchases to local first.

3XartKeep your dollars in the Austin local economy
Modest changes in consumer spending habits can generate substantial local economic impact. For every $100 in customer spending at a national chain, the total local economic impact is only $13. The same amount spent with a local merchant yields $45, more than three times the local economic impact.

Ensure that you have more choices
A marketplace of thousands of small businesses helps to ensure more innovation and competition, and lower prices over the long term. Independent businesses, choosing products based on what their local customers need and desire, not a national sales plan, guarantees a more diverse range of product and service choices.

Prevent Austin from becoming Anywhere, USA
Each year brings more national chains displacing locally owned businesses. AIBA aims to reverse the trend of losing locally owned independent businesses by organizing collaborative efforts among members and creating a stronger bond between local businesses and the community.

Read the results of local business studies from Austin and across the country.

 

finger-graphic-10
Shift 10% Locally

Shifting 10% of your shopping from chain stores to locally owned businesses annually, adds

$244 Million
to our local economy creating

2,855
new jobs. And supports a sustainable local economy for us all. Become a local shifter and shift 10%, 20% or more of your purchasing to local businesses today!


 


Love Austin?
Love Your Locals!

Austin Independent Business Alliance is a nonprofit organization of locally owned and operated independent businesses that have joined together to promote the cultural and economic benefits of shopping locally.

AIBA works to ensure the success of Austin's local independent businesses so that we can continue to contribute to Austin's rich character and vibrant quality of life. By preserving what is unique about our city, we can avoid becoming "Anywhere, USA."

Buy local whenever possible. Every time you spend a dollar at local, independent businesses you not only impact the cultural vitality of our community, but you also help build a stronger local economy.

Read the results of local business studies from Austin and around the country.

Did You Know?

  • Cool Culture
    Locally owned businesses contribute not just to Austin's economy but to our culture. From funky to sophisticated, Austin's independent businesses foster vibrant and diverse choices.

  • 2,855 New Jobs
    Shifting 10% of your shopping from chain stores to locally owned businesses adds $244 million to our local economy annually, creating 2,855 new jobs! And you'll support a local sustainable economy for us all.