Growth
June 2025 More than $1 Million in Livable Centers Initiative Grants Awarded to Six Communities Downtown master plans, transit-oriented development, and trail connectivity are some of the ways the communities plan to use the LCI grants. ARC’s LCI program helps communities transform into more vibrant and walkable live-work play environments. LEARN MORE Seven communities selected…
Read MoreMIDNIGHT OIL EDITION 302 RESOURCES & TIPS 4 Small Business Month growth strategies Take advantage of Small Business Month by focusing on a few strategic growth activities that can help grow your business — from strengthening your digital presence to creating personalized experiences. Get started using this guide. Passive income ideas for entrepreneurs Many entrepreneurs are…
Read MoreAbout National Small Business Week For more than 60 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has celebrated National Small Business Week (NSBW), which acknowledges the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. National Small Business Week 2025 will take place May 4-10, and SBA will officially recognize their hard work, ingenuity, and…
Read MoreMIDNIGHT OIL EDITION 297 RESOURCES & TIPS 10+ tools to build your brand community A loyal brand community can boost word-of-mouth marketing, provide invaluable insights, and ultimately help your business grow. Discover how these 10 tools can help you manage, moderate, and encourage a group of deeply devoted fans to connect around your business. Tax tips: your…
Read MoreMIDNIGHT OIL EDITION 294 RESOURCES & TIPS What to know about tariffs impacting small businesses We talked to small businesses around the country to hear their thoughts on impending tariffs on imported goods. Business owners say tariffs will impact their ability to grow and hire and are already making them less profitable. Find out how business owners…
Read MoreRESOURCES & TIPS How to establish and grow your company’s credit rating A good business credit rating unlocks opportunities for securing loans, attracting investors, and negotiating insurance rates. Whether starting, scaling, or seeking investors, here’s a roadmap to help you build a strong company credit rating. Flo-Magic Playbook: From YouTube Viral…
Read MoreThank you to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for providing this content. Chamber Bulletin KEY TAKEAWAYS Businesses will help make Valentine’s Day sweet for Americans. DEVELOPMENTS THAT MATTER Business Blooms on Valentine’s Day For 67 years, Karin’s Florist has helped make Valentine’s Day special for its community with exquisite flowers and curated gifts. Recognized as a U.S.…
Read MoreMIDNIGHT 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…
Read MoreMIDNIGHT OIL EDITION 288 RESOURCES & TIPS Tax credits, deductions, and updated guidance for 2025 While the filing deadline for tax year 2024 isn’t until April 15, 2025, taking proactive steps now to organize financial statements and explore potential tax savings is essential. Here’s a brief overview of what small business owners…
Read MoreThe Douglas County Chamber partnered with The Business Hospital to bring you a free Business Clinic! Their team of experienced business professionals provided on-the-spot diagnoses and actionable advice to address attendees specific challenges. Whether you needed help with marketing, finance, operations, or strategic planning, they provided the expertise you need to get your business back…
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