BALLE is a growing

North American alliance of more than 50 fully autonomous local business networks with their own names, missions, and initiatives, representing about 20,000 US and Canadian entrepreneurs. All networks share a commitment to Living Economy principles. BALLE works to catalyze, strengthen and connect these local business networks dedicated to building Local Living Economies. A Local Living Economy ensures that economic power resides locally, sustaining healthy community life and natural life, as well as long-term economic viability.

Members of local BALLE networks have a direct stake in the future of their communities and bioregions and include local business owners, non-profit leaders, government representatives, and engaged citizens.

Members of local networks work together to:

• Support the growth and development of community-based business
• Encourage local purchasing by consumers and businesses
• Create opportunities for business leaders to network and share best practices
• Advocate public policies that strengthen independent local businesses and farms, promote economic equity, and protect the environment

• Provides local networks with tools, business models, and other resources
• Maintains an online marketplace of independent, community-based businesses
• Links Local Living Economies to share best practices
• Promotes Local Living Economies through media, public forums, and partnerships
• Develops pilot initiatives to strengthen Local Living Economies

• Sustainable agriculture: www.livingeconomies.org/LivingEconomies/www/entrepreneurs/sustainable-agriculture

• Renewable energy: www.livingeconomies.org/LivingEconomies/www/entrepreneurs/renewable-energy

• Zero-waste manufacturing: www.livingeconomies.org/entrepreneurs/zero-waste-manufacturing-1

• Independent retail: www.livingeconomies.org/entrepreneurs/independent-retail

• Green building: www.livingeconomies.org/entrepreneurs/green-building

• Community capital: www.livingeconomies.org/entrepreneurs/community-capital