6 mistakes all startups should avoid

MIDNIGHT OIL EDITION 355

RESOURCES & TIPS 6 startup mistakes you don’t want to make Most early-stage business failures are the result of small, avoidable missteps that build over time. From skipping market research to letting the books slide, discover if your business is vulnerable to any of these six common startup mistakes.

Startups turning everyday tasks into growth The next wave of AI is filled with practical tools that help with things like customer feedback, training, forecasting, and reviews. See how these startups are solving real business problems, so you can explore how simple AI tools can drive efficiency and growth in your day‑to‑day operations.

Your guide to crafting an employee handbook A strong employee handbook keeps everyone aligned, answers common questions, and protects your business from day one. This guide walks you through building one (with templates included) so you can learn how to create a handbook your team will actually use.

CONTENT FROM CLUTCH Smarter Purchases Start with Better Info   From software to services, smart buying decisions can save your business time and money. Our Purchase Smarter Guide breaks down what to look for, questions to ask, and how to choose solutions that truly fit your needs. PURCHASE SMARTER

QUOTABLE MOMENT “Don’t feel like [cybersecurity] is somebody else’s job. Even if you have delegated it to somebody else in your business, you need to know enough about it to manage it.” — Lisa Plaggemier, Executive Director, National Cybersecurity Alliance, emphasizes why cybersecurity is a responsibility business owners need to understand and manage to better protect their data and operations.

CONTENT FROM AMERICAN EXPRESS Small Business Playbook: Navigating Today’s Challenges    Running a small business means constantly navigating new challenges, and this hub brings together the practical strategies, tools, and insights you can use to work smarter, stay competitive, and uncover new opportunities. Discover ideas and solutions that support your business at every stage. EXPLORE THE PLAYBOOK

BY THE NUMBERS   13 A handful of well‑crafted prompts can help you automate tasks, improve customer service, and get better results from AI tools. Try out these 13 ChatGPT prompts to save time and grow your business.  $166B With tariffs adding up to billions in costs, recent court decisions may open the door for some small businesses to recover those expenses. Discover if your business qualifies and learn how to navigate the refund process to potentially reclaim lost revenue.  1973 Founded in 1973 after a layoff, Planterra built a thriving business by turning a niche idea into a long‑term opportunity. See how focusing on a clear specialty and customer trust can help you grow something that lasts in this edition of our Founded series.

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS – SUBMIT YOUR BUSINESS

Apply for Corporate Citizens Award Program The Corporate Citizenship Awards recognize businesses making a meaningful impact in their communities. Awards are given in nine categories, including Best Corporate Steward, which highlights SMBs that use their resources, talent, and ideas to create change. ‌ Apply (or nominate a business) and show how your work is driving real impact by June 19. LEARN MORE 100 Businesses. One List. Will Yours Be On It? The CO—100 is back, and applications are officially open for the program that puts 100 of the best small businesses in America on a national stage. If you’re building something innovative or impactful, this is your moment to celebrate your achievements. ‌ Submit your application before the July deadline for a chance to join this exclusive small business list. LEARN MORE

GRANTS & AWARDS Jobber Grants range from $10,000 to $100,000, with flexible funding that can be used to cover expenses such as expansion costs, equipment upgrades, or additional staffing. Selected recipients will also receive an all-expenses-paid retreat with business mentorship opportunities. The application deadline is June 11. ‌ The Boundless Futures Foundation’s EmpowHer Grant provides up to $50,000 in funding and leadership resources to female founders driving both business growth and positive social impact. Applications for this next cycle are due by June 25. ‌ Galaxy of Stars is on a mission to support women and minority entrepreneurs with their small businesses by offering valuable resources, tools, funding, and knowledge. They are running a $4,250 Galaxy Grants giveaway, sponsored by Hidden Star, a 501(c)(3) organization, with a quick 30-second entry process. The deadline to enter is July 31. ‌ More grant & program information can be found here.