Who Qualifies as an Independent Business?

Understanding the Heart of Our Membership

The Douglas County Local Business Alliance™ exists to serve independent businesses — those built from the ground up by local individuals, families, and entrepreneurs who live and work right here in Douglas County.

An independent business is privately owned and operated, not part of a national chain, franchise, or public corporation. The owner(s) have full control over daily decisions, finances, branding, and company direction — without outside corporate influence.

As of 2025, the Local Business Alliance™ now allows certain locally owned franchise businesses to apply for membership on a case-by-case basis. These franchisees must demonstrate a high degree of local control and full alignment with the Alliance’s mission to support Douglas County’s economy and community values.

Core Requirements for Membership

  • Douglas County Based: Your business must be headquartered in Douglas County, Colorado.
  • Majority Local Ownership: At least 51% of the business must be owned by individuals who live in Douglas County.
  • Privately Held: Your business should not be publicly traded or owned by a parent corporation.
  • Locally Controlled: All major decisions — operations, marketing, finances — must be made by local owners, not a national office.
  • Local Pricing Authority: Franchise applicants must have full control over their pricing and service offerings at the local level.
  • Independent Branding: You operate under your own name, brand, and strategy — not as a franchise or national chain.
    Exception: Locally owned franchise locations may be considered if they meet all other independence criteria and demonstrate community engagement.

What Makes a Business Truly Independent?

Independent businesses are the heartbeat of our local economy. They are:

  • Owner-Operated: The owner(s) are actively involved in day-to-day operations.
  • Self-Directed: Decisions are made locally without corporate guidelines or oversight.
  • Locally Invested: Profits are typically reinvested into the local economy — not siphoned off to shareholders or national offices.
  • Community-Focused: These businesses support and contribute to the community in meaningful ways — hiring locally, supporting schools, nonprofits, and local events.

Examples of Independent Businesses We Serve

  • A family-owned auto repair shop in Castle Rock
  • A solo CPA operating from home in Parker
  • A boutique shop or café not part of a franchise
  • A locally-owned construction company or freelance contractor
  • A wedding photographer, hair stylist, or service provider running their own brand
  • A franchisee who owns and controls their business, pricing, operations, and actively supports the local community

If you’re building your business with your own hands and heart, and you call Douglas County home — you belong here.

Ready to Join the Movement?

If your business meets the qualifications above, we’d love to welcome you to the Alliance.

Apply for Membership