If you work in economic development, you probably know this stretch of the calendar well. It is back-to-school season. Families are buying school supplies, replacing shoes, outfitting dorm rooms and trying to figure out how a child who was wearing last year's jeans in May somehow needs an entirely new wardrobe in August. At the same time, retailers are already looking ahead to the … [Read more...] about The Back-to-School Squeeze: Why This Is a Critical Moment to Support Small Businesses
Create Better Product Listings Faster with Our AI Generator
As someone who spends a lot of time helping small businesses market their products online, I've noticed the same challenge over and over again: They have a great product. They have a photo. And then... they get stuck. Writing product titles isn't fun. Product descriptions take time. SEO and now GEO (for AI search) feels intimidating. And very few small businesses have professional lifestyle … [Read more...] about Create Better Product Listings Faster with Our AI Generator
The Future of Local Business Visibility May Belong to Trusted Ecosystems
Every day online, people ask the same kinds of questions. “Does anyone know a good accountant?” “Looking for a local contractor.” “Who should I use for marketing?” “Any bakery recommendations?” These conversations happen constantly. In Facebook groups, Reddit threads, neighborhood pages, text messages, and community conversations. And whether we realize it or not, they reveal something … [Read more...] about The Future of Local Business Visibility May Belong to Trusted Ecosystems
3 Things Leaders Can Be Doing Right Now to Create a More Successful Business Marketplace
What Can You Can Be Doing Right Now to Create a More Successful Business Marketplace? Many organizations launch a business directory… but the ones that truly gain traction are the ones that turn into a marketplace that is actively guided and energized over time. Here are 3 simple things economic development organizations, chambers, downtown groups, and community leaders can start doing now to … [Read more...] about 3 Things Leaders Can Be Doing Right Now to Create a More Successful Business Marketplace
What We’re Seeing Across Communities Right Now
Over the past few months, I’ve had the chance to spend time on the ground in communities like Oakland County and Kalamazoo. Walking downtowns, visiting businesses, and actually talking to the people behind them. And there’s one thing that stood out immediately: People care. A lot. Not just about their business, but about their community, their customers, and the role they play in … [Read more...] about What We’re Seeing Across Communities Right Now