Stacy Mitchell is a senior researcher with the Institute for Local Self-Reliance and directs its initiatives on banking and independent business.

Stacy has served as an adviser to numerous community and small business organizations, and has helped cities and states implement new land use and economic development policies to strengthen locally owned businesses.

Her book, Big-Box Swindle: The True Cost of Mega-Retailers and the Fight for America’s Independent Businesses (Beacon Press, 2006), has appeared on several top-ten lists and was described by Bill McKibben as “the ultimate account of the single most important economic trend in our country.”

Stacy is frequently interviewed by news media and has contributed articles to a variety of publications, including Business Week, The Nation, Grist, Huffington Post, Sojourners, and others. She also produces The Hometown Advantage Bulletin, a popular monthly newsletter.

An engaging speaker, Stacy has given presentations for many organizations, including the American Booksellers Association, American Planning Association, National Main Street Center, National Trust for Historic Preservation, and the Schumacher Society.

In addition to her work with the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, Stacy is a former board member and current adviser to the American Independent Business Alliance and is a founding board member of the Portland Independent Business & Community Alliance. She lives in Portland, Maine.

Reach her on Twitter @stacyfmitchell or by email at smitchell [at] ilsr.org