39th Annual Small Business Week Awards Luncheon   The Small Business Week Awards Luncheon will be held on Thursday, May 9th at 11:30 at the University Center Club.  During the event we will recognize outstanding local entrepreneurs and business owners that have contributed to the vibrancy of our economy. In addition, we are excited to […]

Every penny counts when you are running a small business. Minimizing taxes may be the difference between a profitable business and one that is just scraping by. You all are probably thinking, “I don’t have extra time do deal with taxes.” I heard your concerns and that’s why I’ve come up with 7 tips that […]

Small-business owners are increasingly being congratulated for their contributions to the economy. They create jobs, provide much-needed services, promote diversity and put money back into their communities.  Yet, those same business owners often are so busy with their day-to-day pursuits that they neglect their own financial needs. In doing so, they miss opportunities to protect […]

A bill to raise the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $15 an hour has cleared a legislative hurdle that sets it up for a vote by the House of Representatives in the coming weeks.  This move in Congress is a sign of broader political momentum for the minimum wage issue, long embraced by progressives […]

As if this tax season weren’t hectic enough, some accountants said they’ve run into software problems as they guide entrepreneurs through a new and complex 20 percent tax break.  This year marks the first season in which households will be filing under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act . This overhaul, which went into effect […]

The ability to chart one’s own economic destiny by becoming an entrepreneur is one of the hallmarks of capitalism. Many of today’s most recognized companies and brands began as the brainchild of an individual who embraced the risks of entrepreneurship with hopes of realizing their entrepreneurial vision. Yet, while in theory entrepreneurship is anybody’s game, […]

Women of color face additional and unique obstacles in almost every area of society, including business. Women from minority backgrounds who want to start their own businesses are up against more hurdles. These entrepreneurs typically don’t have a network of professional mentors to support them. They have more family responsibilities to balance. And they have […]

Whether you’re considering the entrepreneurial life or already handling the demands of being your own boss, these ladies are sure to motivate you.  So, you have an idea. It’s great, creative, and innovative. Before you tell the world about it, what comes next? Where do you get started? And how do you get your idea […]

Social media is no longer an option for small businesses; it’s a necessity. In fact, more than 90 percent of marketers believe social media is important, according to Social Media Examiner. Successful social media marketing strategies increase sales, promote services and increase brand awareness. To help implement a solid social media plan, small businesses can […]