Certified Independent: Stand Out, let people know.
We’re certifying truly independent businesses across cities, towns, and villages—so people know their time and money is going somewhere that matters. When you're Certified Independent, you’re not just standing out—you’re standing for something: stronger communities, deeper connections, and more money staying local. Together, let’s show the world that local isn’t just better—it’s essential.
Building the movement
We have a vision to build a global community of certified independent businesses, empowering everyone to invest more of their time and money locally. Together, we're not just spending—we're making a stand to strengthen our communities, creating vibrant, thriving places where we all prosper.
What is an independent?
A Certified Independent is a mark of authenticity. For businesses, it means being recognised as a true independent, meeting high standards for verified ownership, financial independence, and having a real, visitable location or market stall. For people, it guarantees that they're experiencing a genuine, locally-owned business.
To earn this certification, a business must prove that it:
is independently owned
Independently owned and operated by individuals, families, or a small group of owners.
is financially independent
Has not taken or is not reliant on private equity or venture capital.
less than 5 locations
Has a physical presence within the local community it serves or is a market trader.
contributes to the local economy
Contributes to the local economy, supporting and engaging with the community through its operations.
