The holiday season is a make-or-break time for many small businesses. Shoppers are ready to spend, but they’re also pulled in countless directions—online sales, big-box discounts, and time constraints that make convenience one of the biggest factors in their spending.  The best way to rise above the noise isn’t to shout louder, it’s to link arms with your neighbors; maybe even your competitors (hear us out). Collaboration is one of the most powerful tools a small business can

The holiday shopping season brings excitement, opportunity, and a little chaos. With more shoppers and higher expectations, small businesses can benefit from a clear plan to stand out and finish the year strong. Here are simple, effective ways to make the most of the season. Make a Great First Impression A clean, welcoming storefront or office sets the tone. Add seasonal décor, update your holiday hours online, and make sure your Google Business profile reflects what you offe

A Guide to Recovering Revenue You Didn't Know You Were Losing When was the last time you reviewed your business subscriptions? From software to streaming services, you could have hundreds of dollars out there that you had forgotten about. That’s money that’s been quietly slipping through the cracks. Most business owners are so focused on bringing money in the front door that they don't notice it leaking out the back. But this "hidden cash" is actually easier to find than new

6 Moves to Make in 2026 Unless you've been living under a rock it's difficult to avoid all the posts about school starting back up again and summer being over. Why do those events matter? It means we're quickly approaching Q4 and that is the perfect time to review what has gone well for you this year and what has been a mounting challenge. While you may be laser-focused on holiday sales, year-end reports, and hitting those final quarterly goals, the savviest leaders know Q4 i

You know the old adage, “It takes money to make money”? While that may be true, marketing and advertising don’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, some of the most effective ways to get your business noticed are either free or surprisingly affordable (especially with the technology available). Whether you’re just getting started or trying to grow on a tight budget, here are 15 creative and cost-effective ideas to boost your visibility and draw in customers. 15 (plus one bonus)

Source: U.S. Chamber of Commerce The recently enacted “ One Big Beautiful Bill Act ” includes substantial tax reforms to support the growth of small businesses . Small business owners can take advantage of these tax breaks starting now for expenses dating back to January 20, 2025.  This guide outlines the most impactful provisions of the law, including permanent deductions, enhanced credits, and expanded eligibility criteria. It provides clear, step-by-step instructions to h

Does your favorite coffee shop have a secret menu? One where the drink’s not on the board, but the regulars know to order? The one that gives you a little more for the same price or offers you a flavor you didn’t even know existed just because you’re a regular. Or maybe you know a speakeasy club that opens every weekend to people who know the “password.” A chamber of commerce is like that for business owners. Most people see the posted “menu” like networking events, ribbon cu

As summer hits its peak (yeah, it’s hard to believe) and the back-to-school buzz begins, this is the perfect time to refresh your marketing. It’s also a great time to connect with your customers in meaningful, fun, and creative ways. And you don’t have to be a retail shop to “sell summer” or “back-to-school.”  No matter what your industry, aligning your brand with what your customers are already thinking about can drive real results. Hot Ideas for Greater Revenue (and attenti

Facebook continues to be one of the most powerful platforms for businesses to connect with customers, build brand awareness, and drive sales. With over 2 billion users and tools that support everything from video marketing to community building, it remains a key part of many business marketing strategies. And that’s why it’s important to keep an eye on it.  Two big pieces of news about the platform just hit (one planned, one not so much). Every business should be aware of: Fa

When you’re building a small business, it’s easy to focus on the day-to-day grind—inventory, customer service, cash flow, and that never-ending inbox. But if you don’t know where you’re going, how will you know if you’re getting there? That’s where a vision statement comes in. Some businesses think it’s “too corporate” or “too pretentious,” something people do to impress investors. But it’s more than a buzz phrase or a corporate checkbox.  A clear, inspiring vision is your bu

Let’s face it: our daily habits often run on autopilot. We grab coffee from the same place, visit the same websites when we shop, and call the same service providers without a second thought. While loyalty can be beneficial, what if we paused for a moment? Consider the impact of your everyday purchases. Why Small Business Month Matters Small Business Month is the perfect opportunity to rethink where your dollars go. Instead of defaulting to businesses that have no connection

Some people think chambers of commerce work magic—and in many ways, they do. But to see real results and get the most from your membership, you need to be involved. Joining is a smart move, but the true value comes when you actively engage. If you’ve been wondering whether you’re making the most of your membership—or if you’re just starting out and you’re not sure how to get the most out of it—here are ten practical ways to tap into the value your chamber offers. Show Up and