6 tips for running a successful remote business

MIDNIGHT OIL EDITION 290

RESOURCES & TIPS [ICYMI] 2025 trends, insights, and more The future is uncertain, but the business landscape promises optimism and opportunities for entrepreneurs. From tariffs to workforce shortages, tax changes, and more, watch our 2025 Small Business Update with U.S. Chamber Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley for a nuanced discussion of what’s to come this year. ‌

A step-by-step guide to funding your business One of the biggest hurdles entrepreneurs face is securing the funding needed to get off the ground or take their business to the next level. This guide will walk you through the essentials of funding your small business, whether you’re just starting or looking for growth capital.

Spread love the small business way Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, giving you just enough time to find unique gifts for the people you love. Check out six small businesses sparking passion and originality this romance season, from love-inducing elixirs to cheeky greeting cards.

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Aspire Construction & Design: Atlanta’s Little Giant Delivering Big Dreams

In the bustling city of Atlanta, Georgia, this small Architecture, Engineering, Construction (AEC) firm is quietly making a big impact. Aspire Construction & Design, a CO—100 Micro-Business Leader, proves that you don’t need a massive team to deliver top-notch design-build services. ‌ With a streamlined team of three, Aspire provides a holistic suite of architectural, engineering, interior design, and construction services, enabling clients to establish or enhance their physical spaces effectively. Read on to discover how the Atlanta-based brand thrives through strong leadership. READ MORE

 

Quotable moment

“You have to dig into what’s being asked of you and what you need to do and then apply it. As a business owner, you can get into a space of ‘I’m right,’ but you’ve got to be open to feedback.” -Carlos Acosta, owner of Chowé Empanadas, shares how businesses can make the most out of participating in accelerator programs run by major retailers like DoorDash and Whole Foods.

BY THE NUMBERS   2025 Make this the year your business sees significant growth! To kickstart your growth journey, take advantage of these actionable growth strategies from the experiences of entrepreneurs just like you. 7 Running a remote business takes careful consideration to succeed. Here are seven must-read tips for remote-based entrepreneurs aiming for growth and efficiency. 32% With only a third of U.S. employees feeling engaged, businesses must explore cost-effective strategies to enhance workplace satisfaction. Boost morale and increase employee retention by employing these employee satisfaction strategies.

GRANTS & AWARDS The EmpowHer Grant from Boundless Futures Foundation offers entrepreneurs up to $25,000, with funds provided as reimbursements for business expenses upon proof of payment. Nonprofits that support female entrepreneurs through education, mentorship, or financing can request up to $30,000 in grant funding through the Her Village Grant, also through Boundless Futures Foundation. Applications are accepted until February 15. ‌ The U.S. Department of Education (DOE) has various grants available to small businesses in the education sector. Each grant has unique eligibility criteria, with some opportunities set aside for public schools, state agencies, or nonprofit organizations; however, others allow applications from for-profit private sector companies. Deadlines for currently available DOE grants run through March 17. ‌ Honeycomb Credit is offering a $10,000 Breakthrough Grant to support small businesses in achieving their next big milestone, such as opening a new location, launching a food truck, or franchising. Eligible applicants must own a small business; no purchase or payment is required to apply. Applications are due April 2. ‌ The ZenBusiness $5K Grant Program is offering $5,000 grants to help small business owners fuel growth and innovation. Open to current ZenBusiness customers who formed their business within the last three to six months, the program supports U.S.-based private businesses that create meaningful impact in their communities. Applications are open through December 31. ‌ More grant & program information can be found here.