About What's Local
Celebrating and connecting communities with local businesses
Our Story
What's Local began with a simple observation: incredible local businesses and creators are all around us. But they're buried under the noise of social media and generic search results
We've all been there—scrolling endlessly trying to find the perfect gift, a unique class to try, or a local event worth attending. Meanwhile, talented makers, passionate hosts, and creative entrepreneurs are just blocks away, struggling to reach the very neighbors who would love what they offer.
That's when we decided to create a platform that celebrates local excellence. We're building a platform where discovery feels personal, verification means something, and supporting local isn't just a hashtag—it's how we shop, learn, and connect.
What Makes Us Different
Community First
We're built by locals, for locals. Every feature is designed to strengthen community bonds. Know an amazing pottery studio? A talented jewelry maker? A cafe with great workshop space? Nominate them. Let's shine a light on 'em!
Curated Excellence
Every brand on What's Local is verified as a genuine local business or independent creator. No drop-shippers, no corporate chains—just real people building real businesses in our communities.
Authentic Stories
Every brand has a story—the late nights, the first sale, the reason they started. We don't just list businesses; we tell the stories behind them. Meet the makers, learn their craft, and discover why they do what they do.
Our Mission
To create a thriving ecosystem where local businesses flourish, communities connect, and authenticity triumphs over corporate uniformity. We're here to make "shop local" not just a slogan, but a way of life.
Why Now
In an era of endless chains and online giants, local businesses need support more than ever. Communities are craving authentic connections and unique experiences. The time is now to celebrate what makes each neighborhood special.
Our Values
Authenticity Over Algorithm
We believe in curation, not automation. Every brand is reviewed. Every experience is vetted. Quality always beats quantity.
Local First, Always
We celebrate the makers, creators, and entrepreneurs who invest in our communities—not just those who sell to them.
Community Over Competition
Rising tides lift all boats. We're here to help local businesses succeed together, not compete against each other.
Transparency & Trust
Free for our first season means exactly that—no hidden fees, no bait-and-switch. We're building trust before we ask for anything in return.
Meet the Founder
Hi, I'm Jeena!
I'm a Bay Area local who fell in love with the energy and creativity of our small business community! What's Local is my way of giving back to the community that's given me so much—and building something that makes it easier for all of us to support the businesses and creators we care about.
I believe that every local business has a story worth sharing, and every community deserves to celebrate the unique character that makes it home. Want to chat? Have a suggestion? Know an amazing local business? Reach out—I'd love to hear from you.
Jeena James
Local: Sunnyvale, CA
Join the Movement - Ask 'What's Local?'
Let's celebrate local excellence.
Free This Season. Here to Stay.
We're offering free features for all brands this holiday season because we want to prove our value before asking for anything in return. Our goal isn't to extract—it's to serve.
As we grow, we'll introduce premium features for businesses who want more (analytics, early access to exclusive events, etc.), but there will always be a free tier. Always.
What's Local is an independent platform built by locals, for locals. We're just trying to build something useful, honest, and community-focused. If that resonates with you, we'd love to have you along for the ride.