Business Resources
How to Evaluate a Low-Cost Franchise: A Five-Factor Framework Beyond the Initial Fee
A low franchise fee is not a low-cost business; the true commitment includes ongoing fees, working capital, and personal savings. This guide outlines a five-factor framework to evaluate franchise viability beyond the initial price.
6 min read·November 9, 2026
Business Resources·5 min read
How the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce Supports Minority-Owned Businesses
Main Street Revival·5 min read
Chamber, Trade Association, or Professional Association: Which Business Group Fits Your Goals?
Eats & Drinks·7 min read·Sponsored by Snacks Galore Hawaii
Getting Authentic Island Flavor: How Snacks Galore Hawaii Delivers to the Mainland
New Openings·5 min read
Pop-Up or Permanent Storefront? How to Pick Your First Physical Retail Model
Business Resources·5 min read
Before, During, and After: A Phased Disaster Preparedness Checklist for Small Businesses
Shop Local Guides·5 min read
How to Turn a Local Festival Into a Marketing Engine: A Three-Phase Plan for Small Businesses
Owner Spotlights·4 min read
Finding and Sharing Your Business's Community Stories: A Small Owner's Framework
Eats & Drinks·5 min read·Sponsored by The Roast Haus Coffee Co.
Why Freshly Roasted Coffee Beans Make a Difference in Your Daily Brew
Shop Local Guides·5 min read
How to Sell More at Your Farmers' Market Booth: A Three-Phase Checklist and Marketing Plan
Business Resources·5 min read
How to Find, Vet, and Partner With Local Suppliers: A Small Business Framework
Opinion & Editorial
Local Chambers Adapt to 2026 Trends, Driving Small Business Growth
Kendra Baptiste · May 15
Main Street Revival
Main Street disaster relief in 2026 is an illusion, recovery efforts fall short.
Kendra Baptiste · Aug 25
Main Street Revival
Main Street Revival Needs More Than Festivals; Sustained Engagement Is Key.
Kendra Baptiste · Aug 17
Main Street Revival
Community-led Main Street revival initiatives are poised for major success.
Kendra Baptiste · Aug 27
Main Street Revival
Diverse entrepreneurs are key to Main Street revitalization
Kendra Baptiste · Aug 11
Main Street Revival
Main Street programs drive local business revitalization
Kendra Baptiste · Jul 20
Analysis & Trends
Shop Local Guides
In-Store, Curbside, or Locker? Choosing the Right Customer Pickup Model for Your Small Business
Rizza Valencia · Nov 5
Shop Local Guides
Four Ways Your Local Business Can Partner With a Non-Profit — and How to Pick the Right One
Rizza Valencia · Oct 31
Business Resources
How to Vet a Commercial Cleaning Service: A Four-Part Decision Framework for Businesses
Simone Ito · Oct 29
Main Street Properties
How to Choose a Commercial Real Estate Broker: 3 Factors Small Businesses Should Score Before Signing
Eleni Kassian · Oct 30
Shop Local Guides
Five Ways to Support Local Food Businesses Beyond Dining In: A Practical Comparison
Rizza Valencia · Oct 26
Eats & Drinks
Three Tool Categories Every Local Restaurant Should Get Right: A Practical Digital Guide
Shira Edelman · Oct 26
Explainers
Main Street Revival
How to Form a Business Improvement District: A Step-by-Step Guide and Feasibility Checklist
Eleni Kassian · Nov 6
Owner Spotlights
Four Succession Paths, One Family Decision: How to Plan a Family Business Transition That Lasts
Shira Edelman · Nov 5
Owner Spotlights
Choosing a Business Structure That Protects Your Family's Legacy
Shira Edelman · Oct 31
Main Street Revival
How to Get an Outdoor Seating Permit: A Stage-by-Stage Guide for Business Owners
Eleni Kassian · Nov 2
New Openings
How to Start a Pop-Up Shop: A Step-by-Step Guide to Testing Products and Building Your Brand
Rizza Valencia · Nov 1
Business Resources
How to Respond to Any Review: A Simple Framework for Positive, Negative, and Mixed Feedback
Rizza Valencia · Nov 1