Collaboration is not new for small businesses. What is changing is which collaborations are worth your time. As we look ahead to 2026, the partnerships that matter most are not about chasing reach or jumping on every opportunity. They are about alignment, visibility, and shared value. Here are the collaborations that are making a real difference. Local-first partnerships.Businesses that work … [Read more...] about 2026 Collabs That Actually Matter
About Cherie Edilson
You’re Not Behind. You’re Just Running a Business.
If your business feels a little behind right now, you are not alone. Behind on posting, behind on updates, behind on trying the latest tool everyone says you need. It can feel like everyone else is moving faster while you are just trying to keep up. But here is the truth most small business owners do not hear enough. You are not behind. You are just running a business. Running a real business … [Read more...] about You’re Not Behind. You’re Just Running a Business.
Shopping Small Isn’t Always Convenient. That’s the Point We Need to Fix.
Recently, a local consumer sent us a private message expressing frustration with the messaging to shop small. Winter weather had led to closures around Small Business Saturday, which she understood. What felt harder to reconcile was that when she wanted to shop small during the week, many local stores were closed. She travels through multiple towns Monday through Wednesday and genuinely wants to … [Read more...] about Shopping Small Isn’t Always Convenient. That’s the Point We Need to Fix.
5 Things Small Businesses Are Doing in August to Prepare for the Holiday Season
5 Things Small Businesses Are Doing in August to Prepare for the Holiday Season August may still feel like the dog days of summer, but for smart small business owners, it’s go-time for gearing up for the holiday season. With planning and prep starting earlier each year, August offers a valuable window to get ahead of the Q4 rush. Here are five things savvy small businesses are doing right now to … [Read more...] about 5 Things Small Businesses Are Doing in August to Prepare for the Holiday Season
Facebook Groups vs. Local Marketplaces: What’s Best for Supporting Small Business?
If a community wants to help small businesses succeed, you might ask: “Can’t we just create a Facebook group?” You can. And many communities do. But if you’ve ever been in one of those groups, you’ve probably noticed something... It’s noisy.It’s random.And it rarely moves the needle for the businesses who need help the most. So what’s the difference between a Buy Local Facebook Group and a … [Read more...] about Facebook Groups vs. Local Marketplaces: What’s Best for Supporting Small Business?