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
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.
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?
AI for Small Businesses: The Game Changer Main Street Retailers & Handmade Businesses Can’t Ignore
If you’re a small business owner, especially a local retailer or handmade seller, you probably remember the shift that e-commerce brought in 2020. As the world moved online, businesses that adapted thrived, while those that resisted struggled to keep up. Now, a new wave of transformation is here—Artificial Intelligence (AI). And just like e-commerce, it’s not just for big brands. For small … [Read more...] about AI for Small Businesses: The Game Changer Main Street Retailers & Handmade Businesses Can’t Ignore