Connect with other Local Business Owners:

• Attend networking events and educational meetings.
• Receive Business Development assistance and support.
• Learn about developing sustainable green business practices.
  
• Access other independent business networks through the national BALLE (Business Alliance for Local Living Economies) Networks, www.livingeconomies.org

Gain Visibility through Marketing and Promotion:

• Members are published in the annual Cambridge Local First directory. Over 25,000 Directories were distributed to Cambridge businesses, community sites and residents in 2008.
  
• Members will be listed in our upcoming Web Directory, with links to other local networks and Community Partner sites.
  
• Members receive a Cambridge Local First Member Window Decal and a display case of Directories. Members also have access to the Local First logo for their own advertising and promotions. Many CLF members publicly emphasize the Local First movement to attract the growing number of shoppers who prefer to buy local.

Work Together to Strengthen our Community:

• Educate our community about the importance of supporting locally owned businesses and the stewards of our region. Remember, when we shop local, 68% of the money we spend stays in the community. When we shop non-local, only 43% stays in our community.
  
• Teach and learn from a community of like-minded local business owners who share your challenges and your vision.
• Advocate for policies that support independent local businesses and farms, promote economic equity, and protect the environment.