ISSBA provides a forum for the mutual support of small businesses in Ipswich and surrounding parts of Suffolk, in the east of England. It is an informal organisation of business owners and others involved with small businesses, funded by sponsorship, members' subscriptions and organised by a committee.

Activities include monthly meetings or events of a business or social nature, a Business Exhibition and monthly business workshops. ISSBA keeps in touch with its members through a monthly newsletter, a directory of members and this website. Within this framework members exchange views, sales, general information and acquired experience, as well as relaxing with other like-minded people in the friendly atmosphere of the popular and regular social events. Member companies - of which there are around 300 - offer a comprehensive range of services and products from accommodation to travel, engineering to financial services, manufacturing to consultancy.