BIBA : About BIBA

Who We Are

History
In the fall of 1997, several independent business owners in Boulder, Colorado were under immense economic pressure from chain store proliferation. In 1998 they banded together under the banner of the Boulder Independent Business Alliance. Since that time, the Alliance has grown to over 100 member businesses, encompassing nearly every facet of the independent business community. BIBA is a non-profit grassroots organization of locally owned businesses working to support community-based independent businesses through cooperative efforts in purchasing, marketing and advertising, public information and advocacy. BIBA accomplishes its mission with the support of a part-time professional director and the expertise of business volunteers.

Local Presence
We implement local market presence through advertising campaigns, feature articles, letters to the editor and press releases. BIBA has worked hard to develop the positive relationships between our alliance and local media outlets. Local radio station KGNU is a member of BIBA and frequently runs radio announcements for our organization. We constantly strive to improve our community outreach and local support.

National
After substantial success in its first three years, BIBA's model is now being spread. Founded by one of BIBA's directors, Jeff Milchen, the American Independent Business Alliance (AMIBA) was started in 2001 to establish Independent Business Alliances around the country. AMIBA now creates a stronger voice on the national level that focuses on community-based business. We have been featured in numerous national publications and on various websites including Inc. Magazine, the Utne Reader, Orion and Adbusters.com. We are confident that our unprecedented mission and vision are being spread throughout the nation.