Share our Infographic on How To Help Local Businesses Weather Covid-19
Print this and post it around town, and share it on social media. We can all do our part to help support small businesses weather the Covid-19 pandemic.… Read More
Bloomberg Businessweek Profiles Cities that Restrict Chains to Free More Space for Local Businesses
A piece by Nick Leiber explores how cities are using caps on “formula” retailers to ensure that local businesses have ample opportunities to secure space and grow. … Read More
In Jersey City, a Policy Fosters Local Independent Businesses
In downtown Jersey City, a familiar story is playing out: Independent business owners have helped foster neighborhood growth, and now, chain stores are interested in sweeping in with their own locations. What’s different in Jersey City is that the city has taken proactive steps to check this common cycle, and instead, build a model that allows for more opportunity for local entrepreneurs.… Read More
Watch ILSR’s Stacy Mitchell on Why Cities Need Independent Businesses
In this 20-minute talk, ILSR’s Stacy Mitchell looks at why cities need independent businesses, and also at some of the issues that are facing these businesses today — and why cities should use public policy to respond.… Read More
The Ripple Effect When You Shop Local (Infographic)
When you choose locally owned businesses for your shopping, you create a ripple effect. Our new infographic shows what happens when you shop local — starting with you.… Read More
ILSR’s Annual Independent Business Survey
ILSR’s annual Independent Business Survey gathers data from thousands of locally owned, independent businesses across the country. … Read More
Local Governments Are Increasingly Buying from Amazon. Here’s Why They Need to Stop.
Local governments are increasingly turning to Amazon for their buying needs. When they do, though, citizens lose. Here’s why you should be concerned about this spreading trend — and 5 things you can do.… Read More
Independent Businesses Report Growing Sales and Hiring, but Policies Tilted in Favor of Large Companies Hold Them Back
The 2016 Independent Business Survey finds that independent businesses experienced brisk sales and a sharp increase in hiring in 2015, but that biased policies and other obstacles are limiting their success.… Read More
A Tool to Find Banks that Invest in the Local Economy
A new tool called Bank Local, which was developed with input from ILSR and other experts, makes it easier to assess the impact that banks have on their communities.… Read More