What is America's Best Companies?

America's Best Companies (ABC) is a nationwide small business organization headquartered just outside Chicago, dedicated to helping small business owners stay in business, grow their business, and make more money in their business. We have been built on the strong belief that small businesses are the most important companies in America and the cornerstone of our communities. We built America's Best Companies to help protect the future of small business in what is, with the influx of big-box corporate chains, an increasingly competitive environment. We always welcome your feedback to better serve you and help shape the future of ABC and your local business community.

How can ABC help me?

Our mission is to provide small businesses with the tools and resources to compete with the existing mega-marts and giant online retailers. We'd like to see the point-and-click generation of today recognize the unique products and personal services that local business owners can provide. We believe, after all, that the American Dream has always begun with the idea of starting a small business. We've focused on creating an easy-to-use suite of tools and programs specific to your needs. We know that there are already many expensive and complex services available to help local business owners with their advertising and marketing. We've tested what works and incorporated the most effective strategies into a single shop to help you save money and ultimately deliver you more customers.

What benefits will I receive?

Our small business association offers five key tools that can help you maximize your business and obtain more customers quickly, easily, and cost effectively.

First, we help you advertise your business through our own Internet directory (ezlocal.com) and over 40 top local search directories like Google, MSN Local, Yahoo, Yellowbook.com, and Yellowpages.com. Second, we will publish and host an easy-to-build website for your business where you can post in-store specials, coupons, photos, videos, and more through myABCspace.com. Third, we provide hundreds of discounts on a variety of goods and services for all of your most common business needs. Fourth, a subscription to our magazine, America's Best, will provide you the most current information and advice available to help you run your business as efficiently as possible. And finally, with the materials in our marketing kit you can promote in-store with your ABC member window decals, certificate and more.

Why should I get involved?

America's Best Companies' success is only possible because of the strength of our numbers. Suppliers understand that ABC represents thousands of active and involved small business owners. Our buying power and advertising reach grows with each new member we have. The future of small business depends on the commitment of independent business owners to join together and fight back against the big-boxes. Our member dues allow us to gain leverage in that fight and significantly impact public awareness to make a difference for the small business. ABC cannot function effectively for small businesses without your support and your active involvement.

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Who is eligible to join ABC?

Although some businesses will receive special invitations, any business can register and receive VIP treatment in our small business organization. Members of ABC come in all sizes from almost every business category ranging from nationwide restaurant chains, to independent contractors, salons, auto repair, gift shops and many more. See our Member Directory.

How can I become a member of ABC?

Any owner of a privately held business may apply to become a member of our organization. You can: apply online in five minutes or less or call us today and speak with one of our representatives at 1-877-885-2378.

How much does it cost to be a member?

$35.00 per month or $420.00 per year. There is a yearly registration fee of $75.00. You can join the fight today and promote the future of small business while receiving a wealth of benefits. Register in a few easy steps by filling out our quick online signup form.

How long does it take to register my business?

After you enroll online or over the phone and provide the required information, it takes about an hour for your information to be verified. Your directory listing is usually up within 24 hours and your member kit should arrive within five to seven business days.

How can I contact you to tell you about my business?

Customer support is available at 1-877-241-2378 Monday through Friday between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (CST). You can also contact us online via our Contact Us page at anytime.

Is ABC affiliated with any bureaus or government agencies?

America's Best Companies is a private small business organization funded by independent business owners to support and promote free enterprise in our local communities. We are not associated with any other organization, bureau or government agency.

What is the best way to search the ABC directory?

Searching for business listings at ezlocal.com is based on two things, a "what" and a "where" that is: what you are looking for and where geographically you want to find it. You can search by entering the business name or keyword of what you're looking for or by using popular search categories provided. When indicating where you want to search, either enter a valid ZIP code or make sure that whatever city you choose is also typed in with the correct state abbreviation.

How do I add ABC to My Favorites?

Click on Favorites at the top of the page and then click "Add to Favorites." We look forward to having you back – and be sure to tell all your friends and fellow small business owners about us.

How can I get more information about ABC?

Gowithabc.com gives you a complete picture of everything ABC does. Start with Member Benefits, Member Discounts, or the Small Business Center sections. If you'd like to speak to someone about questions you have, use the Contact Us link at the top of this page or call 1-877-885-2378.

Where can I get a directory of ABC members?

ABC does not share its member database out of concern for its members' privacy. However, you can often identify ABC members in your area since many display their ABC sticker on their store window, cash register, or reception desk. If your favorite small business doesn't have an ABC membership certificate prominently displayed, why not ask if it is familiar with ABC and if they would be interested in joining? Just send them to gowithabc.com to become a member.

How do I subscribe to America's Best magazine?

Receiving regular issues of America's Best is one of the many perks of membership in America's Best Companies. America's Best delivers advice, tools, and services, to help small business owners start, run, and grow their businesses more successfully. The magazine has yet to be available on the newsstand and you cannot yet buy an individual subscription. However, we do offer a FREE trial issue of the magazine. Order your FREE issue today!

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Can I link to gowithabc.com and/or add the ABC logo to my website?

Absolutely, this is a great way to showcase your membership in ABC. To add the ABC member seal to your website, you first must be logged in. You can than go to the Member Center for detailed instructions on adding this link.

Can I update or add information once my listing is posted?

Yes, you may easily change or update your listing at anytime to add new keywords, new contact information, change of address, store hours, business description, new products, services, and much more. Log into the Member Center or visit the Contact Us page or call 1-877-885-2378.

How do I build my myABCspace.com website?

Simply go to myABCspace.com! The purpose of myABCspace is to allow anyone – especially those without technical skill – to build their own custom website and be easily found on the Internet.  Through myABCspace, ABC members can easily create a custom website and obtain reliable online hosting.

With over 150,000 combinations of website designs to choose from, it should be easy to find a unique look for your small business. Use our step-by-step online tutorials to guide you through creating your site. With myABCspace, no programming or HTML skills are needed; if you can fill in a straightforward step-by-step form, you can build your own small business website with just a few easy mouse clicks.

How often will you send me e-mail updates?

If you are a member of ABC, you will receive regular emails about your membership as part of the standard ABC member communications including the ABC eWeekly newsletter. If you do not wish to receive future emails, just call 1-877-885-2378 or simply click the "unsubscribe" link at the bottom of the email and we will promptly remove you from our e-communications.

I forgot my username and/or password. What do I do?

Click "Log In" in the right-hand column from any screen. Beside the username and password boxes, you'll see a link to "Forgot your password?" Click on that, then type the email address you used to register on the site. Your password will then be emailed to you. You'll also receive instructions for changing your password. If you need any assistance, call 1-877-885-2378 or use the online contact form. A representative will reply to your email within two business days.