The American Independent Business Alliance (AMIBA) is a national 501c3 non-profit organization helping communities to: launch and successfully operate "buy local" campaigns; facilitate group purchasing and marketing among local businesses, and; other programs to support community enterprise. AMIBA helps build vital local economies based on locally-owned businesses through helping existing businesses to thrive while creating ongoing opportunities for entrepreneurs. We help communities unite local businesses, citizens and community organizations to achieve this goal. AMIBA is a coalition of, by and for the community organization members. Since 2001, AMIBA has helped nearly 100 communities nationwide to launch Buy Local campaigns or broader Independent Business Alliances. We encourage and provide training and support in four major realms: 1) Public education about the greater overall value local businesses often can provide as well as the vital economic, social and cultural role they play in the community. 2) Cooperative promotion, advertising, purchasing and other activities to help local businesses gain economies of scale and compete more effectively. 3) Creating a strong voice for local independents in the local government and media. 4) Engaging citizens in guiding the future of their community.