Why Shop Locally?

Be aware of the impact of your dollars.
Click here for a complete list of BIBA members (printable version)

By supporting locally owned independent businesses, you are sustaining the unique character and economic viability of Boulder for generations to come.

A locally owned independent business (LOIB) returns approximately 80% of each dollar spent back to the community. A LOIB assists the community through a "multiplier effect": one dollar spent at a locally-owned business will return five times that amount within the community through city taxes, employees' wages, and purchase of materials and supplies at other independent businesses. In addition, a LOIB will turn that dollar back into the community through school funding, social services, and contributions to local non-profit organizations.

Chains and franchises contribute roughly 40% and at times as little as 20% of the stores sales back into the community through employee wages, sales taxes and property taxes. Frequently, a chain store's location is owned by the larger non-local company, and the business is given tax breaks by the city in order for shareholder profits to remain high. Locally owned independent businesses do not receive such benefits and thus contribute a far greater proportion of revenues to local taxes.

How can you participate?

The most obvious answer is to look for the BIBA logo whenever you shop. We recognize that at times it's difficult to spend locally, yet doing so becomes second nature when you are provided with the information necessary to make shopping easier.

Use the BIBA Guide to find the location and address of the business providing the products or services you are looking for.

At BIBA we have made a commitment to find members for each unique product that Boulder County residents might be looking to buy from an independent business. Ask us if you can't find what you're looking for.

Buy the BIBA card. Get discounts with over 60% of our members. If certain members do not provide discounts, ask. Sometimes, they operate at such a low margin that they cannot offer a discount, at other times they haven't thought that it would make a difference. Let them know it does!

Build relationships. Our members are often very generous with what little time they have. They do notice repeat customers. Say hello, and get to know them, they care more than you think.