For proudly local businesses
93% of Consumers Prefer Locally Owned & Operated Businesses
Customers care about supporting local businesses—but they need to know you’re one of them. By getting certified as Locally Owned and Operated, you can stand out, build trust, and attract loyal customers who value keeping dollars in their community.
Get your business certified today
Why get certified?
The recognition you deserve
Independent business ownership is demanding and deserves acknowledgement
Boost visibility
Free promotion to our audience of thousands to expand your reach
Strengthen your community
Help highlight the importance of keeping jobs, dollars, and business ownership local.
See how customers feel about local ownership;
click here to view our 2024 report
Why we care about locally owned and operated businesses
"Over 48 percent of every dollar spent at a local business is reinvested in the community compared to just 13 percent of every dollar spent with major chains."
"If every American family chose to spend $10 a month at local independent retailers vs international corporations, more than $9.3 billion USD would be directly returned to the US economy."
"Small businesses donate 250% more than large businesses to causes within their local community."
FREE Certification Package includes:
Physical Decals
Display your locally owned status for customers to see.
Digital Badges
Showcase your certified standing wherever people can find you online.
Amplified Exposure
Promotion to our audience of thousands across our various social platforms and channels.
and more!
How it works
01
Apply
Complete a quick, straightforward application to verify your local ownership.
02
Get certified
Once approved, you’ll receive your free certification materials.
03
Promote your certification
Start attracting customers who value supporting local businesses like yours.
Join hundreds of certified local businesses
Be part of a growing network of locally owned businesses proudly making a difference in their communities. Certification is free, fast, and easy—and it helps customers find and support businesses like yours.
Get certified now
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you run this program?
Mainshares is a financial services company that offers its services to independent small businesses. We sponsor the locally owned and operated certification program to amplify small business ownership across the country. Without programs like this, there is not enough support for small businesses (our customers) to survive and thrive.
Is certification really free?
Yes! There’s no cost to apply or receive your certification materials.
How long does it take?
  • Filling out the application form takes less than 5 minutes.
  • Applications are typically reviewed within 2 business days.
How do you verify we are locally owned?
We use the information you provide in your application, along with publicly available information to certify your status. We may also contact you using the contact information you provide in your application to verify details.
Who qualifies?
  • Independently owned businesses based in the local community.
  • Businesses with majority local ownership and decision-making authority.
Apply for certification today!
Get certified and show your customers what it means to be proudly local. Take the pledge to keep your business locally owned now and in the future.