Illinois Local launches to help businesses grow across the state
Illinois Local is a new initiative for local independent businesses across the state of Illinois. Its purpose is to provide independent locally owned and operated businesses with a platform to connect, learn, share ideas, and grow together.
Geographical restraints often mean it is a challenge for businesses to sell their products or offer services outside of their hometown. In addition, networking and learning in person have been severely limited due to the pandemic. Illinois Local offers members a chance to grow beyond their community and network safely.
While Illinois Local aims to provide a comprehensive listing of local independent businesses in the state, it will also focus on the impact members are making on their community. A lot of areas don’t offer a local first organization, but now every local business in Illinois can be a member. Those businesses that are already members of a local first organization now have the opportunity to expand their reach.
One of the most value-added aspects of Illinois Local is a members-only area on the website with access to educational materials, videos, and the opportunity for businesses to discuss ideas and collaborate.
As well as the directory, which is optimized for search engines, Illinois Local is active on social media, and offers a monthly newsletter. Stories about members are added to the Illinois Local news page and press releases too.
In addition to Illinois Local being a platform for businesses, it also offers those traveling into or around the state a place to find local eateries, places of interest, and retail stores.