“Local business always makes sense. It makes dollars and sense in a tough economic climate because statistics show dollars spent locally circulate more and thus mean more to the local economy.”

As this year’s president of the Albuquerque Independent Business Association, Mary Ellen Merrigan focuses on the power of grassroots. “The time to support each other is now,” she states. Small business owners need to band together. Business as usual is not a given.”

AIBA set a goal of 500 memberships, doubling in size for 2009. In response to a tightened economy, the group provided a stimulus with lowered membership pricing ($99) for the year. Value offerings for members include networking, educational events and advocacy.

Issues of particular concern include health care for small business; AIBA participates in a McCune Foundation study on that topic. The organization was also represented at the Mayor’s economic summit earlier in January.

The group sponsors “I Love ABQ” in February. Monthly think tanks serve as brainstorming opportunities for local members. A networking event each month is free to members as are monthly Lunch ‘N Learns which concentrate on web strategies.

AIBA is dedicated to preserving and improving Albuquerque’s unique character by supporting local, independent businesses. Mary Ellen serves as the fifth president. Other board members include: Mary Schmidt, immediate past president and special projects; F. Leroy Pacheco, The Loan Fund, vice president; Arian Gonzales, Cervantes Food Products and Martha Doster, Body Bueno, co-secretaries; Gail Martinez, Business Solutions, treasurer; Myra Ghattas, Slate Street Café, Marketing Chair; Ken Groggel, Designer’s Marketplace, sponsor coordinator; and D. J. Heckes, EXHIB-IT! Tradeshow Marketing, membership. Rebecca Dakota serves as Executive Director for the organization.

For a complete list of activities and information on joining the organization see keepitquerque.com.