Better Local Business Agency LLC was founded in 2014 by Mark F. Hayles, The Agency’s ongoing mission is the delivery of services aimed at strengthening and growing small and minority businesses, SMB. The Agency recognizes the importance of SMBs having access to affordable capital and contracting opportunities. Increased localization has been a mantra for the Agency, and the need to see accelerated flows into local communities; a driver for sustained economic growth and local multipliers that creates jobs, wealth, and ultimately leading to healthier and more vibrant, and thriving communities. The Agency has deep experience in technology and is a thought leader on its adoption by small growing businesses especially in the use of Enterprise Resource Planning, ERP. The Agency is currently working to improve economic outcomes and is developing the Local Economic Development Program and a dedicated Learning Management System to improve access to information, around business & health and tailoring courses for entrepreneurs, specialty trades-persons, growth-focused businesses, Faith-Based Organizations, and other community-focused organizations. The Agency is working with local partners like CDCs and CDFIs, in New York and more recently Connecticut, to build capacity in underserved communities, in businesses and their workforce, and with Faith-based Organizations, a rich resources that have been hidden in the shadows of community economic development for decades.