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
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?
Building Member Loyalty: Strengthening Connections Through Innovative Approaches
Loyalty is the lifeblood of any membership-based organization. Whether you're managing a chamber of commerce, an economic development department, or any other organization that thrives on member engagement, the challenge remains the same: How do you not only attract members but also retain them for the long haul? The answer lies in creating meaningful connections that go beyond basic membership … [Read more...] about Building Member Loyalty: Strengthening Connections Through Innovative Approaches
Community-Driven Success: The Key to Standing Out in E-commerce
In the vast and ever-evolving e-commerce landscape, small businesses frequently find themselves grappling with the challenge of distinguishing their brand amidst the sea of competitors, while simultaneously forging meaningful connections with potential customers. This struggle to carve out a unique identity and foster genuine engagement can often seem daunting and overwhelming. However, amidst … [Read more...] about Community-Driven Success: The Key to Standing Out in E-commerce
The Case for Marketplaces: Why Your Chamber of Commerce Needs a Marketplace, Not Just a Directory
In today's digital age, businesses are constantly seeking ways to enhance their online presence and connect with their target audience effectively. One of the fundamental choices they face is whether to list themselves in a traditional business directory or to leverage the power of an online marketplace. While both options serve as platforms for businesses to showcase their products or services, … [Read more...] about The Case for Marketplaces: Why Your Chamber of Commerce Needs a Marketplace, Not Just a Directory