Our mission is to preserve and enhance the economic, human and natural vitality of Vermont communities by promoting the importance of purchasing from locally-owned independent businesses.

To succeed, our new organization will build and expand on the wonderful “Buy
Local” work already being done in Vermont by the food and agricultural sectors; and through many other locally-focused groups around the state. We believe that by working together we can help educate residents, businesses, and government agencies about the critical nature of supporting locally-owned, independent businesses.

This campaign will help grow our businesses, our communities, and a strong local economy.  Local First Vermont welcomes business members who meet the criteria listed below. We also welcome support from anyone in the community who wishes to help maintain the uniqueness and livability of our special corner of New England.

We hope our shared goals will foster collaboration and cooperation among businesses throughout Vermont. We envision a robust and sustainable economy fueling vibrant communities, built on a cornerstone value and practice of thinking “local first.”

Membership Categories and Criteria

Membership Categories – for businesses that meet the membership criteria (see below)

•    Local Member –  $50 for one year – Benefit: membership packet, decals and website listing

•    Local Leader- suggested contribution of  $250 for one year – Benefit: same as above plus your company will be featured at LFVT events

•    Local Hero - Sustaining membership contribution of $500 or more – Benefit: same as above plus a website home page listing/link

Community Supporter – for citizens, non-profits, businesses that don’t meet membership criteria and others who want to support the efforts of LFVT:

•    Supporter - Suggested donation $50-$500. all donations are gratefully accepted.  Donations of $500 or more receive a website home page link. 


Criteria for Business Membership

1.    The business is privately held, not publicly traded.  
 
2.    The business owners, totaling greater than 50% of the business ownership, live in Vermont.

3.    The business is based in Vermont and has no corporate or national headquarters outside the state.  

4.    The business can make independent decisions regarding the name and look of the business, as well as all business purchasing practices and distribution.  


Please click below to download the membership application.  We hope to soon have an online application process.  Thank you.

Click here for a Membership Application