American Operator helps keep businesses local by transitioning ownership of great small businesses from retiring owners to local industry operators. We give owners an alternative to selling to private equity firms that may disrupt their legacy, while creating opportunities for the next generation of hard-working Americans to own and lead businesses in their communities.

We run the Locally Owned and Operated certification program completely free of cost to applicants because we believe local ownership is the backbone of American communities and should be visible and valued. As local businesses continue to be bought by private equity firms, customers often cannot tell the difference between independently owned businesses and those backed by large institutions.

Certification makes your commitment to local ownership clear. It helps you attract customers who value local service, demonstrate your investment in the community, and signal your commitment to remaining locally owned and operated for the long haul.