Independent Franchise Participation in the Douglas County Local Business Alliance™
The Douglas County Local Business Alliance™ (DCLBA) exists to protect and promote independent, locally-owned businesses. That remains our top priority. However, we also recognize that not all franchises are built the same.
While most franchises are tightly controlled by national brands, there are a few that operate more like independent businesses — where the local owner has full control over pricing, hiring, community engagement, and business operations. These are typically structured as LLCs based in Douglas County, doing business as (DBA) a franchise name.
Our Case-by-Case Approach
To remain inclusive without compromising our mission, DCLBA evaluates locally owned franchise locations on a case-by-case basis. Only those who meet our definition of an Independent Franchise will be eligible.
- Business must be an LLC based in Douglas County, Colorado
- Owner(s) must be Douglas County residents with at least 51% ownership
- Owner must have full pricing and operational control (not set by the corporate office)
- No required participation in national ad buys or centralized operations
- Owner must actively engage with and support the local business community
Franchise participation is limited and not guaranteed. All applicants must undergo a review by the DCLBA leadership team and show evidence of independent operation.
If you own a franchise and believe you meet our independence criteria, you can view the full eligibility requirements here:
👉 Check Independent Franchise Eligibility
Franchise-Supported Sponsorships
In addition to evaluating independent franchisees, we are developing limited opportunities for local franchise brands that strongly align with “Shop Local” values to support our mission through sponsorship.
- Event sponsorships for Shop Local campaigns
- Co-branded community initiatives that elevate local business visibility
- Co-op advertising campaigns that benefit independent retailers
- Participation in study groups and education series
Our Commitment
The DCLBA will always put independent, locally rooted businesses first. But we welcome partnerships with aligned franchise owners who uphold those same values — and who are committed to building up Douglas County’s local economy.
Learn more or apply to join the Alliance at:
https://douglascountyco.com/lba-packages/