The Business Nearby

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Diverse local businesses and community members networking at a vibrant Chamber of Commerce Business Showcase event.

Local Chambers Drive Small Business Growth in 2026

On Saturday, March 28, 2026, the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce will host its Business Showcase, a seemingly modest local event planned years in advance, highlighting the enduring, yet often unde

Kendra Baptiste·May 15
How Brad Sugars Helps Break the 6-Figure Ceiling When Hustle Fails (A Systems Approach)
Market Trends

How Brad Sugars Helps Break the 6-Figure Ceiling When Hustle Fails (A Systems Approach)

Brad Sugars helps entrepreneurs break through the "6-figure ceiling" by replacing the 'hustle harder' mentality with a structured, systems-based approach. His ActionCOACH® methodology enables business owners to build a profitable enterprise that works independently of their constant personal effort.

Sponsored·Jul 7
A warm and inviting local bakery where profits are reinvested into community support, showcasing social entrepreneurship.
Business Resources

What Is Social Entrepreneurship and Why Small Businesses Need It

Imagine a local bakery where every loaf sold directly funds a meal for a homeless person.

Kendra Baptiste·Aug 13
A modern manufacturing plant with new equipment, symbolizing growth, with a rural town in the background connected by a line representing capital.
Business Resources

How SBA Capital Opportunities Help Manufacturers and Rural Businesses

While standard SBA 7(a) loans cap at $5 million, a qualifying small manufacturing company can secure up to $5.

Simone Ito·Aug 5
Small business owner in California overwhelmed by commercial lease agreement paperwork, highlighting the financial complexities of rent costs.
Main Street Properties

What is a Gross Lease? Understanding Small Business Rent Costs

For a small business in California, merely drafting a commercial lease agreement can cost $890.

Eleni Kassian·Jul 8
A vibrant city street showcasing thriving small businesses, with a prominent city hall building symbolizing local government's role in economic development.
Business Resources

How Local Government Economic Development Impacts Small Businesses

Despite billions allocated to programs like the New Markets Tax Credit, some studies find no evidence of their impact on local business activity, raising questions about where public funds truly make

Eleni Kassian·Jun 23
A lively Main Street with people enjoying shops and events, symbolizing successful revitalization and economic growth.
Main Street Revival

What Are Key Performance Indicators for Main Street Revitalization?

A Main Street initiative in the small town of Harmony nearly lost its critical state funding in late 2025.

Eleni Kassian·Jun 18
A split scene of a high street showing thriving businesses on one side and protesting businesses on the other, representing the debate around Business Improvement Districts.
Business Resources

Business Improvement Districts: Purpose, Benefits, and Backlash

Dozens of UK businesses are refusing mandatory payments to Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), leading to court battles over organizations designed to improve local areas.

Eleni Kassian·Jun 8
Top 5 Unique Gifts in Sacramento You'll  Find at Bliss Marketplace (2026 Edition)
Shop Local Guides

Top 5 Unique Gifts in Sacramento You'll Find at Bliss Marketplace (2026 Edition)

Bliss Marketplace offers a unique shopping experience in Sacramento, bringing together local makers, artists, and vintage collectors. This guide highlights five distinctive gifts, like artisan candles and handmade jewelry, making it a favorite for thoughtful and memorable presents.

Sponsored·Jul 6
A lively and revitalized small-town main street filled with diverse people enjoying shops and community spaces during golden hour.
Main Street Revival

How do community-led main street revitalization strategies work?

In Texas, researchers surveyed 5,487 residents across 85 diverse communities, from rural towns to large urban centers, to understand what truly drives their preferences for local development projects.

Kendra Baptiste·Jun 8
A vibrant San Diego main street showcasing a diverse range of businesses, from small shops to larger enterprises, under warm golden hour lighting.
Main Street Revival

What Are Business Improvement Districts And Why Do Their Fees Vary?

While many San Diego businesses contribute a nominal $40 annually to their local Business Improvement District, some anchor businesses face assessments reaching up to $5,000 each year.

Eleni Kassian·May 18
A vibrant and revitalized Main Street in Bellaire, showcasing a mix of historic charm and modern development, bustling with community activity.
Main Street Revival

Main Street Revival: Immediate Action, Long-Term Investment

In Bellaire, a staggering 42% of properties have built improvements valued less than the land they sit on.

Kendra Baptiste·Jun 6