American Independent Business Alliance

The American Independent Business Alliance (AMIBA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting independent businesses across the United States and Canada. Founded in 2001 by Jeff Milchen and Jennifer Rockne, who initially led the Boulder Independent Business Alliance in Colorado, AMIBA's mission is to foster strong local economies by empowering local entrepreneurs and engaging communities in economic development[1][3].

Mission and Activities

AMIBA helps communities launch and operate "buy local" campaigns, facilitates group purchasing among local businesses, and supports various programs aimed at strengthening community enterprises[1]. The organization defines a local independent business as one that is privately owned by local residents, with full decision-making authority residing with local owners, and has a limited number of business locations within a specific geographic area[1].

Independent Business Alliances

AMIBA's model for Independent Business Alliances (IBA) encourages the formation of coalitions between locally owned businesses, citizens, and community organizations. These alliances work to support hometown businesses across different regions. AMIBA has helped establish over 60 such alliances in the U.S. and Canada, representing approximately 24,000 independent businesses[1].

Political and Social Positioning

AMIBA is known for its left-of-center views on economic and social issues. It advocates for antitrust policies to combat monopolies, particularly in the tech industry, and supports legislative actions to limit corporate mergers[3]. In social policy, AMIBA has taken progressive stances, such as co-authoring an amicus brief in support of LGBTQ+ rights in the Masterpiece Cakeshop case[3]. Additionally, AMIBA has joined efforts to amend the U.S. Constitution to limit corporate free speech rights in political campaigns[3].

Leadership and Governance

The organization is led by a board composed of leaders from local affiliate groups. Derek Peebles serves as the executive director, having joined in July 2019[1][3]. The board includes representatives from various regions and organizations focused on sustainable business practices[5].

Financial Structure

AMIBA is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization, relying on contributions and program services for its revenue. As of recent financial filings, contributions constituted a significant portion of its income[2]. The organization invests in building local business networks and supporting policy changes that benefit independent businesses[2].

History

The concept of AMIBA was first developed in 1998 with the founding of the Boulder Independent Business Alliance in Colorado. This model was expanded nationwide, leading to the establishment of AMIBA in 2001 to assist other communities in adopting similar strategies[1][3].