Why Join?
For both individuals and business owners, now is the time to join forces to protect, foster, and strengthen the local businesses in our neighborhoods that give us a sense of place, ensure our diverse culture, and provide us with strong unique communities we are proud to call home. Join today »
What are the benefits?
- Benefits for All Arizonans
- Benefits for Local Businesses
Benefits for All Arizonans & Friends of Local First
Newsletter
LFA communicates directly to its membership with a weekly emailed newsletter that includes information relevant to local economies, new member introductions, upcoming events, and recent news pieces. Our newsletters are currently e-mailed to over 2600 business owners, consumers and supporters. Members are also provided with LFA window stickers so consumers are sure they’re supporting Arizona entrepreneurs. Sign up for our newsletter today.
Programs
LFA creates programs for members that includes printed maps, called Small Wonders; on-line maps called Wrap Your Night, to partner local businesses with arts and cultural destinations; a festival called Certified Local with free food, live music and fun for families; and National Independents Week during which consumers are encouraged to buy locally for the entire week.
Advocacy
LFA works at the state level to encourage legislation that favors Arizona businesses in the state procurement process, and at the city level to streamline the process for the adaptive reuse of existing buildings that are the incubator spaces for entrepreneurs to open new businesses, which create infill and density. LFA also sponsors economic studies to prove local spending is better for our communities than corporate spending.
Quality of Life
Local First is a long-term solution to a deep-rooted problem. We’re working to effect permanent changes in the way people think about how they spend their money- but that won’t happen overnight. We understand it’s going to take time, but we’ve made an enduring commitment to our communities. We’re in it for the long run. Ultimately the future of our state is far more important to the people who stand behind Local First than it is to any chain store. This isn’t just another branch location for us. It’s our home.
Benefits for Local Businesses
Local Business Directory
Visit our local business directory to find over 1300 locally owned businesses of all kinds. Join us and place yourself in front of customers who already know they want to find it locally. Let us help them find your business.
Discounts
All LFA members receive a 10% discount on office supply purchases through Wist Office products and additionally, free overnight delivery. Wist provides a rebate to LFA annually that represents 4% of our combined purchases. 2% of that rebate goes to the organization’s budget, and 2% is donated to a local charity. Additionally, members are provided with exclusive offers on a variety of products and services including advertising, hotel rates, insurance and more.
Community
Business owners are encouraged to attend networking mixers to develop relationships with other like-minded businesses of all kinds. Business to business relationships and local procurement are encouraged.
