Here in Iowa, the Midwest's freezing temperatures are hitting hard, evoking major déjà vu from my early business days. I remember the struggle when customers wouldn't brave the cold, impacting sales and leaving us business owners scrambling for solutions. It’s not so different from the summer months when lightning would strike during a farmers market, drenching my products. There have been … [Read more...] about Chilling Challenges: Navigating Frigid Business Seasons
The Importance of Shopping Local: Supporting Your Community and Economy
In today's globalized world, where online shopping and multinational corporations dominate the retail landscape, it's easy to overlook the importance of shopping locally. However, supporting local businesses is more critical than ever. This blog article will explore the numerous benefits and reasons why shopping local should be a priority for individuals and communities alike. Economic … [Read more...] about The Importance of Shopping Local: Supporting Your Community and Economy
5 Steps Your Community Can Take to Counter the “Amazon Effect” on Local Businesses
With e-commerce and online shopping becoming more popular, it is becoming increasingly difficult for brick-and-mortar stores to stay competitive. Consumers are drawn to the convenience of online shopping through marketplaces, and often opt for the convenience rather than physically going to a store. As a result, many traditional businesses have been hurt by the rise in popularity of online … [Read more...] about 5 Steps Your Community Can Take to Counter the “Amazon Effect” on Local Businesses
A Love Letter to America’s SBDC’s
Small Business Development Centers (SBDC’s) have a special place in our heart. When I was embarking on my entrepreneurial adventure 5 years ago, I found myself speaking with an SBDC counselor for the first time. Today I still work closely with the Iowa SBDC, not only to help support the growth of my business, but also to support businesses all across the state of Iowa and beyond. Small Business … [Read more...] about A Love Letter to America’s SBDC’s
How Economic Development Can Support Black Businesses
August is #NationalBlackBusinessMonth. Founded by Black entrepreneur Frederick E. Jordan Sr and historian John William Templeton, National Black Business month brings awareness to the strengths and struggles of Black founders in the United States. Black-owned businesses with employees represent an estimated 2% of all employer businesses. Black, minority and historically underrepresented … [Read more...] about How Economic Development Can Support Black Businesses