Las Vegas First Community Service Foundation serves the community, supports small businesses, stimulates the economy, and promotes cultural tourism – celebrating local art, artists, music, musicians, architecture, and history, right along with outdoor recreation. Las Vegas FIRST!
Who we are and how we got here
Las Vegas First Independent Business Alliance is a voluntary association of independently owned businesses located in or near Las Vegas, New Mexico, and has been in existence since the early 1990’s.
In 2001, the original organization was incorporated as a 501(c)(6) non-profit corporation and is now called Las Vegas First Independent Business Alliance, whose purpose is “…to help the greater Las Vegas area maintain its unique community character, provide continuing opportunities for entrepreneurs, build economic strength, and prevent the mass displacement of community-based businesses by national and international chains” (from the By-laws as revised May 2009).
To that end, Las Vegas First IBA sponsors and promotes events in the Las Vegas area, advertises collectively on behalf of members, cooperates and coordinates with other Las Vegas area community and business organizations and governmental bodies, and encourages the mutual support of its members.
In 2020, Las Vegas First expanded its scope by incorporating Las Vegas First Community Service Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
In terms of cooperative advertising, marketing efforts, and mutual support, Las Vegas First IBA continues to promote historic Las Vegas as a destination for visitors and locals alike.
“When we support local businesses, we’re not just buying a product, we’re investing in our community.”
Regular (voting) membership is open to any independently owned business or local non-profit organization operating directly or indirectly in the Las Vegas area, as well as to supportive individuals. Corporations that want to support our work may also become members but without voting rights.
Members of Las Vegas First IBA serve or have served as volunteers on the boards of both Las Vegas Kiwanis Clubs (Sunrise and Noon-time), the Las Vegas Arts Council, Main Street de Las Vegas, the City of Las Vegas’ Lodgers’ Tax Board, Las Vegas/San Miguel Chamber of Commerce, Las Vegas Economic Development Corporation, Citizens’ Committee for Historic Preservation and other area non-profits.
Various public servants and city officials often attend Las Vegas First IBA meetings to discuss issues and events impacting businesses.
Board of Directors
Susie Tsyitee, President
Arielle Hawney, Vice-President
Gene Martinez, Treasurer
Christina Muniz, Secretary
Steve Leger, Board Member at Large
Jim Abreu, Board Member at Large
Tito Chavez, Board Member at Large
Tax Information
Las Vegas First Community Services Foundation (DBA Las Vegas First Independent Business Alliance) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
FEIN is 32-0604351
Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.