Locally owned and operated businesses now have the opportunity to be a part of the Brazos Independent Business Alliance (BIBA).

BIBA supports Brazos County businesses and encourages the community to shop locally.

The organization was launched Monday outside of the Carnegie Library in Downtown Bryan.

Hugh Stearns, president of BIBA said he planned the launch in Downtown Bryan so attendants could grasp the ultimate goal of BIBA - to support businesses like those of Downtown Bryan.

Speakers at the event included President and CEO of the College Station and Bryan Chambers of Commerce, Royce Hickman; Bryan City Councilman, Mike Southerland; and Randall Spradley of Astin Partners.

BIBA maintains the website BuyBrazos.com that helps educate people about the advantages of shopping locally.

The website also has a directory of local businesses. Locally-owned independent businesses can be listed in this directory free of charge. Local media consultant Always Creative donated the website and Brazos Valley Design has donated hosting.

BIBA is a branch of similar organizations across the nation. The organizations bring local leaders, businesses groups, and consumer advocates together.

Vice President and Membership Chair of BIBA, Wayne Arrington, said, "This is a great opportunity for our local business people to take advantage of cooperative advertising and community branding in a way that will pay big dividends to our businesses and our community."