IBIZ Districts®, a.k.a. Indie Business Districts, are known for their abundance of the locally owned businesses that create the culture and vibe that Austin is famous for. These are the places that locals and their neighbors go for fashion, gifts, food and fun; and where visitors go to find an authentically Austin experience.
Each District is special in its own way, with a common thread of renowned dining, shopping, services, and nightlife scenes. Whether you're looking for local art, vintage finds, watering holes, familiar faces, or exploring new treasures - IBIZ Districts are Austin's favorite destinations. Check out 4th Fridays in the East End and East Sixth IBIZ Districts, and West Lynn Wednesdays, all happening monthly!
When asked to name our favorite restaurant, cafe, bookstore, service or shop, locally owned businesses are the first that come to mind. Just look at the community's "Best Of" polls as proof. These businesses define our sense of place, help us make memories, connect us to our local communities, and are often the destinations that locals proudly tour with their visting family and friends.
All too often, though, we forget that the survival of these businesses depends on our ongoing patronage.
Each year brings more and more national chains displacing locally owned businesses. Austin Independent Business Alliance works to reverse that trend by assisting neighborhood business districts as destination locations in becoming IBIZ (Independent Business Investment Zone) Districts.
These Districts, located all over Austin, are home to an exciting variety of locally owned businesses promoting the neighborhoods' unique blend of services and goods not found in big box retailers. Each IBIZ District reflects the culture, not just of Austin, but of the distinct neighborhood it is in.
We invite you to explore each of the IBIZ Districts and you'll be speaking local in no time!
Keep 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 tripling your contribution and participation in Austin's economy. (See studies here.) 
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. Austin Independent Business Alliance works to reverse the trend of losing locally owned independent businesses through creating IBIZ Districts, organizing collaborative efforts among members and creating a stronger bond between local businesses and the community.
