WHAT IS A LOCAL BUSINESS?
There are as many definitions for the word “independent” as there are types of businesses. TN Buy Local supports locally owned and independent businesses of all types: retail stores, dry cleaners, professional service firms, movie theaters, restaurants, etc. Entrepreneurs are the heart and soul of Tennessee – we’re glad you’re here!
“Independent” means:
- Private, worker, community or cooperative ownership
- At least 50% locally-owned (definitions of "local" will vary based on community circumstances)
- Decision-making authority is vested in the local owners and not subject to conditions dictated remotely
- The business (all locations) is located in the state of Tennessee
TBL is an Independent Business Alliance® and is working to build a vital local economy based on independent, locally-owned businesses and prevent chain proliferation and other trends from displacing local entrepreneurs. IBAs unite locally-owned independent businesses, citizens and community organizations to achieve this goal.