Become A Member

Membership Eligibility

Forward Ever Members are independent, locally owned businesses, urban farmers, organizations, community leaders and concerned citizens that are committed to the Greater Newark region, creating wealth in our community and improving the quality of life for everyone.

Forward Ever supports the growth of independent businesses throughout New Jersey. We are currently offering membership to businesses located in the Greater Newark area.

MEMBERSHIP CRITERIA FOR BUSINESS 

1. Primary place of business in Essex County.
2. At least 51% owned by Essex County area residents. 
3. Free to make your own business decisions (for everything from logo design to products carried) without the need for approval by nonresident owners or affiliates.

What is Locally Owned and Independent Business?

Forward Ever defines a local business as one that is owned in majority by a Essex County or New Jersey resident(s), and is responsible for its own decision making regarding marketing, operations, and legal proceedings; businesses registered as “non-New Jersey” with the New Jersey Secretary of State do not qualify for listing. By joining Forward Ever you are affirming that your business conforms to Forward Ever’s definition of a locally owned and operated business.

Forward Ever reviews all applications and may request more information from a business for the purpose of verifying local ownership. Forward Ever reserves the right to refuse membership to any business. If you have any questions about whether your business qualifies as locally owned and independent, please contact us.

Forward Ever is not responsible for quality of goods or services rendered by businesses represented on this website or in other materials produced by Forward Ever. Any grievances regarding goods or services should be made with the business in question first (our home grown businesses become stronger with your feedback).

• Receive a Free Splash page with photos and links in Greater Newark’s ONLY locally-focused business directory, a go-to resource for the locally focused consumer
• Free Consultations & discounts with one of our eight business partners
• Access to 0% loans over 24 months
• Reduced or Free admission to Forward Ever and partner events
• Free Webinars
• Exclusive discounts and access to affinity partnerships
• Connection to over 30,000 innovators and to one of the fastest growing movements in the country

Recommended for local businesses that want maximum exposure and recognition for being a leader in the LOCAL first movement and business community.

Our Sustaining Partners understand that through Forward Ever's actions, outreach, and campaigns, we are building a movement and stronger communities across the Greater Newark area.  Through their support, we can expand programs, and launch campaigns as we extend our reach to businesses and consumers alike.  Our sustaining partners allow us to spread our mission and to educate citizens, stakeholders, business leaders, and legislators about the significant economic, environmental, and cultural benefits of a strong local economy.

All Entrepreneur level benefits, plus:

• Online exposure via our website and across social media as a Sustaining Partner 
• Advertising banner in rotation on Forward Ever website
• Spotlight access at Forward Ever events
• Prominent Logo placement on digital collateral
• Ability to speak at Forward Ever mixers

Recommended for people that are invested in our community and want to be part of community change from the inside out.

• Receive Reduced or Free admission to Forward Ever and partner events
• Be included in the local and global conversation about LOCALISM w/ our newsletter email campaigns

Recommended for local non-profit organizations that want maximum exposure and recognition for being a leader in the LOCAL first movement and business community.

• Receive a Free Splash page with photos and links in our locally-focused business directory - Greater Newark's go-to resource
• Free Consultations & discounts with one of our eight business partners
• Reduced or Free admission to Forward Ever and partner events
• Free Webinars
• Exclusive discounts and access to affinity partnerships
• Connection to over 30,000 innovators and to one of the fastest growing movements in the country

Recommended for local anchor businesses that want maximum exposure and recognition for being a leader in the LOCAL first movement and business community.

You understand that through Forward Ever's actions, outreach, and campaigns, we are building a movement and stronger communities across the Greater Newark area. Through their support, we can expand programs, and launch campaigns as we extend our reach to businesses and consumers alike. Our Anchor partners allow us to spread our mission and to educate citizens, stakeholders, business leaders, and legislators about the significant economic, environmental, and cultural benefits of a strong local economy.

• Receive all Small Business Entrepreneur level benefits, plus:
• Online exposure via our website and across social media as a Anchor Partner
• Advertising banner in rotation on Forward Ever website
• Spotlight access at Forward Ever events
• Ability to speak at Forward Ever mixers

Residents and their families, local employees and friends of Forward Ever who want to support our work and keep abreast of what’s happening can join us in a Supporter capacity.

• Supporters will receive newsletters and receive e-mail and text message announcements and invitations to events and programs