Illinois Local FAQs

Why should I join Illinois Local?

Here’s a little of what we do!

How much does it cost to become a member?

Our membership fees are based on the size of your business and are competitive with similar organizations across the US.

Can I post a press release on the Illinois Local website?

As a member, we will post your press release on our site.

How do I win an Illinois Local Award?

Any active Illinois Local member can enter for free between September 1 and October 1 each year. Members can enter their own business or nominate fellow members. A panel of independent judges chooses winners in four categories, and winners are announced on Small Business Saturday at the Illinois Local Holiday Market in Springfield. Someone from each winning business must be available to accept the award. See past winners and how to enter.

How can I be featured on Illinois Local social media?

Social media content on the Illinois local platforms is at the discretion of the social media manager. This includes posts, comments, shares, likes, reels, videos, etc. the onus is not on Illinois Local to generate content for members. 

Tags in posts by members are welcomed but this does not mean every tagged post will be shared on the platform.

Tags in posts are encouraged so that content can be easily identified and shared.

How do I participate in an Illinois Local photoshoot?

Members will be selected according to proximity to each shoot with the exception of the Love Illinois Local campaign in February and the Holiday campaign in December, which will be shot in Springfield, and members from across Illinois are invited to participate. 

The only exception is for members who do not have brick-and-mortar businesses and instead wholesale/consign to members in these locations. 

Any member interested in being featured in a photoshoot is invited to join the waiting list. 

How can I participate in the Illinois Local Small Business Saturday Holiday Market?

All members are invited to participate in the Illinois Local Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday. There is a nominal fee for member vendors. Non-members are invited to participate for a higher fee and cannot register until three months before the event.

What happens if I want to cancel my membership?

Illinois Local Membership is sold at an annual rate. Pro-rated refunds are not available.