Podcasts about small business administration sba

Nextech3D.ai CEO Evan Gappelberg joined Steve Darling from Proactive to share that the company's AI-powered Eventdex platform has been selected to deliver AI-based matchmaking services for the 2026 CT Business Matchmaker, a well-established small business procurement and networking event. The event, hosted in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), will take place on March 5, 2026 at the Connecticut Convention Center. It is designed to connect small businesses with federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as major prime contractors. Nextech3D.ai's AI-driven one-on-one matchmaking technology will power the event's signature pre-scheduled 12-minute meetings, which serve as the central feature of the conference. The platform uses artificial intelligence to optimize connections between buyers and suppliers, helping ensure that participants are matched based on procurement needs, capabilities, and strategic fit. Gappelberg explained that the deployment of AI matchmaking is intended to enhance the efficiency and impact of these meetings, strengthening both national and regional supply chains. By facilitating more targeted and productive introductions, the system aims to unlock meaningful procurement opportunities for small businesses seeking to work with government entities—widely recognized as the world's largest buyer of goods and services. Through this engagement, Nextech3D.ai continues to expand the footprint of its Eventdex platform in large-scale business and government networking environments, positioning AI as a critical enabler of smarter, more effective procurement connections. #proactiveinvestors #nextech3d.al #otcqx #nexcf #cse #ntar #Eventdex #AIMatchmaking #CTBusinessMatchmaker #SmallBusiness #Procurement #GovernmentContracting #SBA #ConnecticutConventionCenter #AIPlatform #EnterpriseTech #SupplyChain #BusinessNetworking #GovTech #TechForBusiness #2026Events #SmartMatching #DigitalTransformation

It has been a month since hundreds of members of a northern Ontario First Nation were put in hotels across the province after a water crisis. Many, however, have chosen to stay at the reserve. As Dan Karpenchuk reports, a state of emergency was declared in early January after a parasite was found in water samples and led to dozens of cases of gastrointestinal illnesses. Medical staff left Kashechewan a week ago after consultation with community leaders, but they say residents who remain will still be able to access healthcare services. Lisa Westaway is the regional executive for Indigenous Services Canada. “We've worked with Weeneebayko area health authority, Orange, which is emergency response and the ministry of health to ensure that services are in place for community members who choose to remain in Kashechewan.” Band leaders in Kaschewan declared a state of emergency on January fourth after damage to the water system. That led to sewage seeping into people's homes creating public health and safety issue. More than 1500 people were sent to communities across Ontario including Niagara Falls, Timmins, and Kingston. Less than 400 decided to stay. Tyson Wesley is the executive director of the Kashechewan First Nation. “A lot of people that are currently in the community are deciding to stay. However we're trying to develop some plans to allow them to be there such as our community across the river Fort Albany. So we're trying to see how they can access health care.” More than 60 band members at the fly-in community on the western shore of James Bay have been diagnosed with the parasite cryptosporidium, which causes gastrointestinal symptoms such as cramps, diarrhea, nausea, fever, and vomiting. Most cases are resolved without medication over a couple of weeks. It is still unclear when people will be able to return home. Tribal leaders from across the country spoke out this week at a U.S. Senate hearing against possible changes within the Small Business Administration (SBA) program that supports Native entities. The Alaska Desk's Alena Naiden from our flagship station KNBA reports. The 8(a) Business Development Program provides federal contracting opportunities to socially disadvantaged individuals or tribes. U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) co-led the oversight hearing focused on the program. “It delivers mission-critical work for civilian and defense agencies, and it promotes economic development in Native communities while helping to fulfill the federal trust responsibility.” But over the past year, the federal SBA and other agencies have launched audits into the program, and announced a sweeping suspension of companies participating in it. U.S. Defense Secretary aka U.S. War Secretary Pete Hegseth also announced on social media last month that his department would be “taking a sledgehammer to the oldest [Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion] DEI program in the federal government.” Murkowski says that Native-owned businesses participate in the program because Congress recognized the government's trust and treaty obligations to Native communities. “That was not based on race, it was not based on DEI.” Katherine Carlton (Iñupiat) is the president of Chugach Alaska Corporation. Her organization has participated in the program for decades and has benefitted from its economic opportunities. “For us, it provided the pathway to recover from the devastating Exxon Valdez oil spill in our region.” Polly Watson is vice president of operations at Bristol Bay Native Corporation and says her organization has several businesses participating in the 8(a) program. Watson says the corporation reinvests the revenue it receives through government contracts back into the community. One example is a partnership with the state Division of Motor Vehicles to deliver mobile services. “To bring real ID and driver's license services to seven villages in the Bristol Bay region serving rural residents.” Tribal leaders and senators from Nevada, Oklahoma, Montana, and Hawaii all spoke in support of the Native participation in the 8(a) program. Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Check out today’s Native America Calling episode Thursday, February 12, 2026 – Young ‘Champions' inspire positive change

The Small Business Administration (SBA) has banned over 1,000 firms from receiving no-bid contracts after they failed to provide anti-fraud documents. These firms, participating in the 8(a) program intended for disadvantaged businesses, received over $5 billion in federal funds in the last four years. SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler stated the action aims to dismantle discriminatory practices and combat fraud within DEI programs. The move follows increased scrutiny of the 8(a) program, including Senate hearings and reports highlighting widespread fraud and abuse. Under the law, a percentage of contracts are reserved for disadvantaged businesses. This action by the SBA signifies a significant effort to ensure accountability and prevent the misuse of taxpayer dollars within government contracting programs. The crackdown is welcome news for those concerned about fair competition and the integrity of government spending.

A bipartisan bill signed into law last year is now giving Native Americans residing in Arizona the option to update their state-issued identification to show their tribal affiliation. As KJZZ's Gabriel Pietrorazio reports, it comes at a time when Indigenous peoples are being swept up in immigration raids – including Peter Yazzie (Navajo), who was recently detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in the Phoenix metro area. This new marker is akin to getting an organ donor or veteran insignia on any form of ID, including a driver license. To do so, applicants need to prove that they're enrolled in a tribe by submitting a Certificate of Indian Blood (CIB), and so far, the Arizona Department of Transportation has gotten more than 1,600 requests for the designation. That idea of streamlining legal documents came from State Rep. Myron Tsosie (Navajo/D-AZ). “Instead of having to dig out all your cards to show that you are Native American.” And had nothing to do with ICE. “That wasn't the purpose, but I'm hearing from constituents saying that I feel safer now.” And it's something Thomas Cody, executive director of the Navajo Nation's Division for Child and Family Services, is encouraging his Diné urban relatives to seek out. “It's unfortunate that we have to have an ID that we're Native Americans. We shouldn't but I'm glad the state of Arizona, Gov. [Katie] Hobbs is taking an extra step.” His deputy director Sonlatsa Jim thinks this service is much-needed – not just for Navajos living in the Grand Canyon State. “Because we are the largest Native American tribe, you'll find a Navajo tribal member anywhere in the United States.” That's why Tsosie is working with neighboring Utah and New Mexico state lawmakers to adopt his legislation aiming to help cover more of Indian Country, including the rest of his sprawling 27,000-square-mile reservation. The federal government is reviewing the business program that benefits Alaska Native corporations and tribes. The Alaska Desk’s Alena Naiden from our flagship station KNBA reports. In a video posted on X January 16, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said his department will review the 8(a) Business Development Program. That program falls under the federal Small Business Administration (SBA) and supports businesses owned by socially disadvantaged individuals or tribes including Alaska Native Corporations. We are taking a sledgehammer to the oldest DEI program in the federal government—the 8(a) program. pic.twitter.com/c9iH8gcqG7 — Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) January 16, 2026 Sec. Hegseth said in the video that the 8(a) program promotes the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) framework and race-based contracting. In the 8(a) program, the federal government sets aside contracting opportunities for disadvantaged small businesses. Tribal entities can have multiple companies in the program, while individuals can only have one. Alaska Native Corporations rely heavily on federal contracts often received through the 8(a) program. Data from the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis shows that it is their primary source of revenue. And most of those contracts come from the U.S. Department of Defense. Quinton Carroll is the executive director of the Native American Contractors Association, and originally from Utqiagvik. “Native participation in the 8(a) program is not a DEI initiative.” Carroll says the program “fulfills longstanding federal trust and treaty obligations to tribes, Alaska Native Corporations, and Native Hawaiian Organizations.” Hegseth ordered a line-by-line review of sole-source 8(a) contracts that are over $20 million. He said in the social media video that the department will get rid of contracts that do not make the country's military more lethal. Hegseth also said the department will make sure that the businesses getting a contract are the ones actually doing the work. He claimed that often small businesses receive the contract, take a fee, and pass it to a giant consulting firm. However, Carroll says Native federal contractors have been partners of the Department of Defense. He added that Native contractors also support the elimination of fraud and waste within the program. The 8(a) program has faced scrutiny from other directions as well. President Donald Trump signed an executive order in April, directing rewriting of federal contracting regulations. The SBA and Treasury department have been both investigating the program as well. Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Check out the latest episode of Native America Calling Friday, January 23, 2026 — Native Bookshelf: “Special Places, Sacred Circles” by Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve

The Small Business Administration (SBA) recently suspended nearly 7,000 Minnesota borrowers for suspected fraud in pandemic-era small business loans totaling nearly $400 million.“We worked through the holidays, from Thanksgiving up to New Year's on about 20,000 different files, found about 8,000 instances of fraudulent loans, and moved quickly to make sure that those borrowers … could never access the services of the SBA again,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler.They'll now be taking the same model to investigate other states for COVID-era abuse of the Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loans.In this episode, I sat down with Loeffler to understand her work targeting fraud nationwide, bolstering domestic manufacturing, cutting regulations, and ending politically motivated debanking.Loeffler grew up on a family farm in Illinois, was the first in her family to graduate from college, and later became a successful businesswoman in finance and FinTech before becoming a U.S. senator and now head of the SBA.Views expressed in this video are opinions of the host and the guest, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.

The House Oversight Committee is intensifying their investigation into the state of Minnesota hemorrhaging funds through fraud schemes in its social benefit programs. The Department of Justice says one of the largest schemes involved 'the Feeding Our Future scheme' which resulted in a $250 million loss when fraudsters received payments from the state for services that were never fulfilled. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has frozen all childcare payments to Minnesota, and the Small Business Administration (SBA) suspended nearly 7-thousand loans amid the mounting scrutiny over accusations of fraud involving child daycare centers across the state. FOX's Ryan Schmelz speaks with Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN) says the scams are so numerous in his state that he calls it 'incompetence or dereliction of duty', and Governor Walz will be out of office in November. Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To Follow 'The FOX News Rundown: Evening Edition' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The House Oversight Committee is intensifying their investigation into the state of Minnesota hemorrhaging funds through fraud schemes in its social benefit programs. The Department of Justice says one of the largest schemes involved 'the Feeding Our Future scheme' which resulted in a $250 million loss when fraudsters received payments from the state for services that were never fulfilled. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has frozen all childcare payments to Minnesota, and the Small Business Administration (SBA) suspended nearly 7-thousand loans amid the mounting scrutiny over accusations of fraud involving child daycare centers across the state. FOX's Ryan Schmelz speaks with Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN) says the scams are so numerous in his state that he calls it 'incompetence or dereliction of duty', and Governor Walz will be out of office in November. Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To Follow 'The FOX News Rundown: Evening Edition' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The House Oversight Committee is intensifying their investigation into the state of Minnesota hemorrhaging funds through fraud schemes in its social benefit programs. The Department of Justice says one of the largest schemes involved 'the Feeding Our Future scheme' which resulted in a $250 million loss when fraudsters received payments from the state for services that were never fulfilled. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has frozen all childcare payments to Minnesota, and the Small Business Administration (SBA) suspended nearly 7-thousand loans amid the mounting scrutiny over accusations of fraud involving child daycare centers across the state. FOX's Ryan Schmelz speaks with Rep. Pete Stauber (R-MN) says the scams are so numerous in his state that he calls it 'incompetence or dereliction of duty', and Governor Walz will be out of office in November. Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To Follow 'The FOX News Rundown: Evening Edition' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Chris Holman welcomes back Everett Woodel, Jr., SBA's Great Lakes Regional Administrator, Ohio. The nomination deadline for the U.S. Small Business Administration's 2026 National Small Business Week awards has been extended? (to Dec. 22, 2026 at 2 p.m. ET.) For more than 60 years, the SBA has celebrated National Small Business Week, tell us about that? (highlighting the vital contributions of America's entrepreneurs and small business owners.) That next National Small Business Week will be held May 3-9, 2026, what's planned? Tell us about Award categories for Michigan businesses? (Small Business Person of the Year Small Business Exporter of the Year 8 (a) Graduate of the Year Phoenix Award for Small Business Disaster Recovery Small Business Manufacturer of the Year (District Award) Rural Small Business of the Year (District Award) Blue-Collar Small Business of the Year (District Award)) Where can folks get more information? (visit: SBA.gov/NSBW) Remind us about that great story of a Michigan business that got recognized last time? (In 2025, the owners of Sterling Heights, Mich.,-based NTL Industries won Michigan Small Business Persons of the Year and went on to win the national title of Small Business Person of the Year.) » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ WASHINGTON — This week, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) extended the 2026 National Small Business Week awards nominations deadline to 2 p.m. ET on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025. National Small Business Week recognizes the contributions of America's 36 million small businesses – which make up 99% of all businesses in America, create two out of every three new jobs, and employ about half of America's workforce. National Small Business Week will take place May 3 – 9, 2026. National awards will be presented during this week at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. A business owner from each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam will be selected for State Small Business Person of the Year awards. State award winners will compete for the 2026 National Small Business Person of the Year title, SBA's signature award. To nominate a small business in your area, download related forms, and to view criteria, and guidelines and the full list of awards, visit sba.gov/nsbw. # # # About the U.S. Small Business Administration The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

Today's podcast features the second part of a recent webinar produced on September 24, 2025, titled: "A New Era for Banking: What President Trump's Debanking Executive Order and Related State Laws Mean for Financial Institutions, Government, and Banking Customers." In Part 2, we discuss the following topics: 1.               What are the areas of uncertainty with respect to the Executive Order, including:  ·                 Defining an "unlawful business" or "religion and why those definitions are important.   ·                 What regulator or regulators will issue regulations or other guidance? 2.               What is the role of the Small Business Administration ("SBA") 3.               Intersection with AML/BSA 4.               Intersection with state debanking statutes and experience of the states 5.               Pending Federal legislation 6.               What should financial institutions be doing now to prepare for regulator review? 7.               Is the Executive Order good or bad policy? 8.               Is there a proven need for the Executive Order?  Is there any empirical evidence of need based on complaints submitted to states with debanking statutes, SBA or other federal banking prudential regulators or is it all anecdotal? Our presenters, who hold diverse views on the wisdom of the Executive Order, are: ·        Jason Mikula Founder and Publisher, Fintech Business Weekly Jason Mikula is an independent fintech and banking advisor, consultant, and investor. He also publishes Fintech Business Weekly, a newsletter analyzing trends in banking and fintech. He opposes the Executive Order. ·        Brian Knight Senior Counsel, Corporate Engagement, Alliance Defending Freedom Brian Knight serves as Senior Counsel on the Corporate Engagement Team at Alliance Defending Freedom. His work focuses on issues of financial access, debanking, and preventing the politicization of financial services. He opposes the Executive Order. ·        Todd Phillips Assistant Professor of Law, J. Mack Robinson College of Business, Georgia State University Todd Phillips is an assistant professor of law at Georgia State University. His areas of expertise include bank capital and prudential regulation, deposit insurance, and the laws governing federal regulators. He opposes the Executive Order. ·        Will Hild Executive Director, Consumers' Research Will Hild is the Executive Director of Consumers' Research, the nation's oldest consumer protection organization. He has led efforts to combat ESG and what he considers "woke capitalism," including launching the Consumers First campaign. He supports the Executive Order. ·        Graham Steele Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions, U.S. Department of the Treasury Graham Steele serves as the Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions at the U.S. Department of the Treasury. He is an expert on financial regulation and financial institutions, with over a decade of experience working at the highest levels of law and policy in Washington, D.C. He opposes the Executive Order. Alan Kaplinsky, the founder and first practice group leader and now Senior Counsel of the Consumer Financial Services Group at our firm, moderated the webinar. We released Part 1of this webinar on October 30, 2025

This week, we sit down with Tony Fiore, a Senior Business Advisor with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Clark University. Tony talks about the vital services the SBDC provides provided to small businesses and entrepreneurs to help them start run, or grow their business, while also providing students with an opportunity to gain business, consulting, and research experience. He also spent time discussing how they fall under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), their affiliation with Clark University, as well as their relationship with entities like the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation. He also talked about an upcoming roundtable discussion focusing on staffing and retention that is slated for Tuesday November 18th at 10am at the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce office. Find out more about the roundtable and register here: https://web.northcentralmass.com/events #podcast #podcaster #podcastshow #podcastlove #businesspodcast #newpodcast #podcastnetwork #podcastcommunity #applepodcasts #spotifypodcast #podernfamily #podbean #newepisode #insidenorthcentralma #insidenorthcentralmassachusettspodcast #mylocalma #visitma #massachusettspodcast #fitchburg #leominster #gardner #northcentralmassachusetts #clarkuniversity #businesstechnicalassistance #smallbusinessdevelopmentcenter #sbdc #sbdcatclark #smallbusinesssupport #smallbusiness

In this special SBA segment of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Tyler Teresa, the SBA Regional Administrator for the Southeast, to explore how the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) supports entrepreneurs before, during, and after disasters.  Tyler brings both personal experience—growing up in a small family business—and professional insight to this critical discussion. From low-interest loans for disaster recovery to preparation strategies and community partnerships, the episode sheds light on how the SBA helps Florida's business community stay resilient. Tyler also outlines the differences between SBA and FEMA, offers actionable advice for disaster preparedness, and explains how businesses can tap into local resources like the SBDC for support.  If you're a small business owner in Florida, this episode is packed with tools to help you prepare, recover, and grow stronger after any storm. Connect with Our Guest: SBA Website – Disaster Recovery & Resilience

More Americans in their 50s, 60s, and beyond are starting businesses than ever before—but they're also facing new, mounting challenges. In this episode of Friends Talk Money, we unpack what's fueling this surge in encore entrepreneurship and how recent policy shifts—especially cuts to the Small Business Administration (SBA) and new trade barriers—are making it harder for older founders to succeed. Special guest Hedy Ratner, co-founder of the Women's Business Development Center, joins us to discuss how older entrepreneurs, particularly women and minorities, are being affected. We cover: Why older Americans are launching businesses in record numbers How Trump-era policy changes are shrinking access to critical SBA support Why tariffs and trade policy shifts are squeezing small business margins What this means for women-, minority-, and veteran-owned businesses What encore entrepreneurs need to do now to protect and grow their ventures If you're starting or running a small business later in life, you'll want to hear what's changing—and what resources are still out there to help you thrive.   Links: Women's Business Development Center (WBDC) SCORE Small Business Administration (SBA) Most boomers and Gen X-ers are terrified about running out of money in retirement — even if they're already retired (Marketwatch)  

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald. Drawing from his own experiences—including the rise and fall of his Houston-based comedy club—he shares hard-earned lessons about budgeting, hiring, planning, and the realities of entrepreneurship. The episode is both motivational and practical, offering real-world advice for aspiring and current business owners.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald. Drawing from his own experiences—including the rise and fall of his Houston-based comedy club—he shares hard-earned lessons about budgeting, hiring, planning, and the realities of entrepreneurship. The episode is both motivational and practical, offering real-world advice for aspiring and current business owners.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald. Drawing from his own experiences—including the rise and fall of his Houston-based comedy club—he shares hard-earned lessons about budgeting, hiring, planning, and the realities of entrepreneurship. The episode is both motivational and practical, offering real-world advice for aspiring and current business owners.

In the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, the Winchester Co-op Market is gearing up to revolutionize how the local community engages with sustainable food sources. In this episode of The Valley "Business" Today, hosted by Janet Michael, this informative and engaging session brought together key figures such as Carl Knoblock, Virginia District Director of the Small Business Administration (SBA); Michael Daryabeygi, Andrea Cosans, and Michael Trainor, board members for the co-op. The core concept of the co-op is simple yet impactful—create a grocery store owned by the community, for the community. Board member Daryabeygi explained, 'The great thing about co-ops is that they're owned by the members. So members get a vote in crucial decisions.' He emphasized that the co-op model allows the business to reflect community needs, supporting local farmers while making healthy, accessible food options available. ‘We want to see our local food economy flourish,' he added. Janet acknowledged the excellent media presence of the Winchester Co-op Market, stating, ‘You've done an outstanding job of getting press and having things out on social media.' Her comment underscores the importance of community awareness and involvement in making the co-op a success. Carl, however, added a layer of complexity to the conversation, stressing that farmers are the backbone of the co-op. 'It's really getting them to jump on board because they're going to have a continuous source of revenue,' he remarked. Carl highlighted the challenge of including second-tier products not taken by major grocery chains. This move could be smart for both farmers and the co-op. Andrea and Trainor elaborated on the store's vision. 'The hope is for a bricks and mortar grocery co-op store, run by the community for the community,' Andrea said. Trainor added, 'We're going to be a fully for-profit store and will operate similarly to a nonprofit during our startup phase to cover initial costs.' The clarity in their statements underscores the transitional nature of their funding and operational strategies. Trainor explained the financial intricacies further: 'The store will eventually become profitable, at which point we will distribute dividends of profits to our members. We need startup funds and are open to all sorts of financial support, be it memberships, donations, or investments,' he said. The discussion touched on some of the challenges faced in launching the co-op. According to Carl, a well-structured business model will be essential. 'It's not just about the farmers; it's about fulfilling the needs of the community and being smart with economic development,' he advised. The board is contemplating innovative approaches to stand out, including the introduction of a commercial kitchen and perhaps even drone delivery systems. 'You have to let people know that while we're bringing what we all want on our taste buds, we're also using new technology to make it more convenient,' Carl suggested. Janet offered practical advice on maintaining momentum: ‘This is a great way for people who are baking brownies, doing sandwiches, and more to figure out if it can be a business for them,' she said, emphasizing the value of pop-up events and local partnerships. Funding remains a significant hurdle. 'We're starting with about 17,000 in the bank and 100 memberships. If anyone wants to write me a check for two and a half million dollars, we can start building tomorrow,' Trainor quipped. The co-op is exploring various avenues for financing, including member loans and grants from federal and local organizations. Andrea highlighted the community angle, 'It's about meeting the needs of the community and creating jobs for local folks.' She mentioned that similar cooperative models in other towns have taken years to materialize, but the board is optimistic about their five to seven-year plan. The co-op isn't just about selling food; it aims to be an educational and cultural hub. Daryabeygi shared ambitions of establishing partnerships with local schools and organizations for educational programs. 'We want this to grow beyond a mere store,' he said, expressing hopes for community cooking classes and sustainability projects. To keep people excited and engaged over the long term, Janet proposed collaborating with local markets for pop-up events and demonstrations. 'Collaborations with local businesses can keep that excitement up so you're not having to do it all alone,' she advised. The session concluded with a forward-looking vision from Carl. 'It's not about competition, it's about the community,' he stated. With ongoing community support and innovative planning, the Winchester Co-op Market is on track to become a cornerstone for sustainable living in the Shenandoah Valley. Learn more about Winchester Co-op Market on their website: https://winchestercoop.market/ 

In today's episode, we dive into the intricate world of government contracts and the surprising challenges faced by companies trying to make their mark in this space. Our guest, Adam Lasky, a seasoned government contracts attorney at Seyfarth Shaw LLP, takes us through the maze of regulations and common misconceptions that entrepreneurs often stumble upon. Adam brings to light the misconception surrounding creating new entities for federal contracting. It's not as simple as it seems. Affiliation and size calculations are critical factors that many businesses overlook. Our guest emphasizes how often construction companies, in particular, set up separate entities without fully grasping the affiliation rules. He walks us through the complexities of status-based designations like 8(a) or SDVOSB, and how these don't automatically carry over to subsidiaries. Adam also sheds light on the unique role of the Small Business Administration (SBA), which stands out as an agency willing to provide valuable guidance amidst a sea of complex government regulations. Join us for this informative episode where we break down the challenges faced by businesses stepping into the government contracting arena. 

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship.This week we chat with Everett Woodel, Jr., the Great Lakes Regional Administrator for the U.S. SBA, about how the SBA helps small businesses throughout the Great Lakes area, from crises and disaster resistance services to loan forgiveness and more. Prior to his appointment as the Great Lakes Regional Administrator, Everett served as the District Director for the SBA in Columbus, Ohio overseeing programs that facilitate billions in small business lending and federal contracting. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. 

Confidently Navigate Small Business Buying and Selling with Baton's Chat JoglekarIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge spoke with Chat Joglekar, Co-Founder and CEO of Baton, a modern marketplace built to simplify the buying and selling of small businesses. Chat shared powerful insights into why acquiring an existing small business can be more strategic—and less risky—than starting one from scratch. He also outlined the tools Baton provides to make small business transactions more accessible, transparent, and successful.The Baton Approach to Small Business OwnershipBaton was born from a vision to demystify the complex process of small business transactions. Chat Joglekar and his team recognized that many entrepreneurs overlook the option of buying a business with built-in cash flow and customers, opting instead to launch from zero. Baton aims to shift that mindset.Chat explained that Baton functions as both a listing marketplace and an educational platform. Sellers can receive a complimentary valuation, and buyers can browse listings for free. Unlike traditional business brokers who charge up to 12%, Baton keeps its success fee at just 6%, lowering the barrier to entry for buyers.One of the most underutilized tools in small business acquisition, Chat emphasized, is the Small Business Administration (SBA) loan. For businesses valued under $5 million, SBA loans offer low-interest rates and long repayment terms. Baton helps guide buyers through the financing process and offers content and guidance to make these loans easier to understand and obtain.Whether you're selling your first business or stepping into entrepreneurship by acquisition, Baton supports your journey with webinars, guides, and one-on-one support. Chat's mission is clear: empower business owners with data, education, and an easy-to-navigate process.About Chat JoglekarChat Joglekar is the Co-Founder and CEO of Baton. With a background in product leadership at Google and venture-backed startups, Chat is passionate about simplifying entrepreneurship through small business acquisition. His career spans growth strategy, business development, and marketplace design.About BatonBaton is a digital marketplace designed to make buying and selling small businesses more efficient and affordable. With free business valuations, educational resources, and lower-than-average success fees, Baton is transforming how entrepreneurs approach small business transactions.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeBaton WebsiteChat Joglekar on LinkedInBaton's Free Business Valuation ToolEpisode HighlightsWhy buying an existing business offers built-in advantages like cash flow and customersHow SBA loans can finance acquisitions under $5 millionBaton's 6% success fee compared to traditional brokerage ratesFree business valuations and educational support offered by BatonThe growing trend of entrepreneurship through acquisitionConclusionThis conversation with Chat Joglekar offers a compelling look at the untapped opportunity in small business acquisition. Baton is making it easier, more affordable, and more informed for everyday entrepreneurs to buy and sell companies. Whether you're looking to exit your...

In today's business landscape, customer service is pivotal for small businesses striving for success. In a recent conversation on the Valley Business Today, Janet Michael, the host, alongside Carl Knoblock, the Virginia District Director for the Small Business Administration (SBA), delved into the nuances of outstanding customer service and its impacts. Janet opened the discussion by sharing a pertinent anecdote about the vital role customer service played during a challenging week for her. A local company failed to meet expectations, whereas Green's Septic Services went above and beyond, earning her loyalty. This story highlighted the stark differences in customer service quality and its direct effect on consumer perceptions and business success. Carl underscored the lasting loyalty good customer service can engender, recounting his own experiences with veteran hospitals. He illustrated how exemplary service can outweigh other factors like price and convenience, embedding a sense of loyalty in customers. Janet reflected on the generational shifts in customer service expectations. While previous generations valued customer interactions significantly, today's digital age has altered these dynamics. Social media and digital communication have complicated the customer service landscape, requiring businesses to adapt continually. Throughout the conversation, both Janet and Carl shared practical examples demonstrating the essence of good customer service. Carl stressed consistency and reliability, while Janet highlighted the importance of going the extra mile, as exemplified by Green's Septic Services cleaning up after their visit. A significant portion of the discussion revolved around training staff for excellent customer service. Carl pointed out the disconnect between older and younger generations' understanding of customer service, with many younger employees lacking the ingrained practices of their older counterparts. He suggested that businesses might benefit from blending experienced hires with younger staff to bridge this gap. Janet recommended directly engaging customers to understand their likes and preferences, which can provide valuable insights for improving service. This practice not only informs better business strategies but also strengthens customer relationships by making them feel valued. The conversation concluded with a mutual understanding of the crucial role that customer service plays in a business's success. Both Janet and Carl emphasized that exceptional service creates loyal customers, potentially leading to word-of-mouth referrals and community support, thereby fostering a sustainable business environment.

In this episode, James addresses the common barriers to starting a business, particularly focusing on the lack of capital. Referencing a Gallup study, he notes that while lack of ambition is not the main barrier, financial constraints are significant. James emphasizes that many successful entrepreneurs started without seeking capital, using creativity to overcome financial limitations. He highlights the importance of building good credit, especially for minority entrepreneurs who face systemic challenges. James shares his personal experiences and advocates for leveraging resources like the Small Business Administration (SBA) and seeking mentorship to transform business ideas into reality. His actionable advice is to prepare thoroughly, seek wisdom over capital, and find opportunities proactively.

It takes a lot of public/private partnerships to bring economic stability and growth to a community. Arlington strives to share these partnerships with small businesses that may not otherwise get access to big opportunities. For the second year, Arlington's BizLaunch team is working with Hyatt Crystal City on a Minority Vendor Showcase that takes a partnership to a new level. I'm Susan Soroko, Director of Creative Economy at Arlington Economic Development in Arlington, Virginia. The role of Economic Development is to retain and attract businesses where workers can live and thrive in a great community even when the work world is changing. We support (small) business through programs like BizLaunch and value the importance of placemaking and a sector devoted to creative economy and the arts. Today we're going to talk about a special partnership with Hyatt Crystal City and what it's like to bring your A game to an event.   To help me discuss this, I'd like to welcome Tiffany Hamilton, Co- Founder of Victor Wear. Did you know 85% of people with autism are unemployed or underemployed? People like our Co-Founder, Isaiah—a straight-A student, video game developer, swimmer, and competitive bowler—face challenges in the job market, despite their many abilities. That's why we launched Victor Wear, an award-winning activewear brand dedicated to inspiring resilience and empowering and employing the autism community. We aim to have our company primarily run by neurodivergent individuals to create jobs while changing the disability narrative and creating a more inclusive world. At the Hyatt Regency Crystal City, our commitment to the community, connection, and care is at the heart of everything we do. We strive to create meaningful opportunities and foster an environment where all individuals feel valued and supported. Building strong relationships and opening doors for our diverse neighbors is our passion, especially within our National Landing community. That is the spark and core to the Minority Vendor Showcase that we aim to host each year. Resources Victor Wear: https://victorwear.com/ Arlington Economic Development BizLaunch Division: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/Small-Business General information about the Small Business Administration (SBA): https://www.sba.gov/ SBA resources locally: https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance SCORE Counseling and other resources: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/Small-Business/Small-Business-Programs/One-on-One-Counseling Small Business Saturday, November 30, 2024 The Innovation Economy Website: https://www.innovationeconomy.show Sign up for The Agile Brand newsletter here: https://agilebrandguide.com/ Get the latest news and updates on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/innovationeconomy/ Listen to our other podcast, The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström: https://www.theagilebrand.show The Innovation Economy podcast is brought to you by Arlington Economic Development: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com The Innovation Economy is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

In this flavorful episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred sits down with Oliver Mosqueda, founder and owner of Guanabana, a Jacksonville-based popsicle business turning heads and cooling down customers with bold, unique flavors. Recorded live from the Florida State Capitol in Tallahassee during Small Business Days at the Capitol hosted by the Florida Small Business Development Center Network, Oliver shares his inspiring transition from working in restaurants to launching a family-run frozen treat brand. He opens up about the entrepreneurial challenges he faced, the keys to standing out in a crowded market, and how the Small Business Administration (SBA) helped him bring his vision to life. This episode offers practical insights for food-focused founders and anyone dreaming of starting their own venture. This podcast episode was recorded live at the Florida State Capitol hosted at the Capitol Courtyard in Tallahassee. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: https://guanabanajax.com

In this episode of The Daily Windup, wee dive deep into the significance of business planning and the value of leveraging free resources for small businesses. Emphasizing the importance of writing a business plan as a starting point to organize thoughts, articulate ideas, and seek validation for a concept. Highlighting the benefits of proof-testing the plan, identifying potential gaps, and gaining external feedback to refine the business strategy. Our guest also shares their personal experience with utilizing resources like SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) and taking advantage of free courses, classes, and mentorship programs offered by organizations like SCORE and the Small Business Administration (SBA). Emphasizing the value of seeking guidance from experienced mentors and participating in programs that align with their industry or market. Furthermore, we talk about the need for small businesses to explore various free resources available to them and take full advantage of the support and knowledge-sharing opportunities they provide. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Alfredo Ortiz speaks with former Secretary of Labor Alex Acosta about the importance of deregulation, the role of the Small Business Administration (SBA) in supporting small businesses, and the impact of Trump administration policies on the economy. They discuss the labor shortage, the need for workforce training, and the significance of association health plans in reducing healthcare costs for small businesses. The conversation also touches on reciprocal licensing for military spouses and the overall need to unleash the economy by reducing bureaucratic regulations. Main Street Matters is part of the Salem Podcast Network. For more visit JobCreatorsNetwork.com Get YOUR Tickets for the Second FREEDOM FIGHTERS SUMMIT & GALA at the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa May 1 - 2, 2025See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Climate change and household financial well-being The increase in climate-related disasters, such as floods, wildfires, and heat waves, has created serious financial burdens on households across the country. Since 1980, the world has seen a fivefold increase in the number of billion-dollar natural disasters. 2018 to 2022 alone saw an estimated $617 billion in damages from climate and weather related events. Beyond the public health and safety concerns, these disasters have hit Americans in the pocketbook. An estimated 13% have reported facing severe economic hardship following such disasters, with this number projected to rise as climate extremes become more frequent. For particularly vulnerable households, high financial costs from disasters can further exacerbate existing inequities. In order to adapt to a changing world of more frequent climate catastrophes, policy makers will need to develop solutions to assist populations in disaster recovery. Solutions to climate-related financial disasterThe impacts of climate-related disasters are numerous. In addition to harming businesses and infrastructure, extreme weather events can lead to worker displacement, job loss, and migration. Catastrophic climate events, known as climate hazards, create financial strain on households from damage done to one's property. Many households may not have the immediate resources or savings needed to repair the damage, leading to long-term displacement and financial instability. Healthcare costs, transportation expenditures, and inability to access proper insurance coverage are other burdens many individuals face following a natural disaster.Low-income communities will face the brunt of climate change impacts. By understanding the historical inequities that have pushed marginalized communities into regions particularly vulnerable to climate change, policy makers can create more equitable outcomes. Many officials are now encouraging increased access to education, “democratized” climate decision making, and new ways to engage and empower people to take a stance in decisions about the climate. The US Department of the Treasury further suggests that households consider utilizing government incentives to adopt climate-resilient property modifications, such as tax credits and rebates for energy-efficient home improvements. Policymakers further plan to support financial well-being by assisting households in financial resiliency efforts with programs through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).Advantages of improving financial stability following a climate disasterInitiatives designed to address vulnerable communities affected by climate disasters can assist in adaptation towards climate extremes. Having access to resources, whether political or social, is key to providing impacted communities with the support they need to adapt to a changing environment. With increased educational awareness and government assistance, households facing financial distress and instability following a climate-related event will have the support they need to recover.Setbacks to achieving financial stability In order for these goals to be realized, policy makers will need to overcome significant challenges. For example, many households across the country face underinsurance, as climate extremes become more common and push insurers to raise rates or pull out of the insurance market altogether. As a result, vulnerable regions may be left without the proper resources to recover. A recent report found that policies for 39 million properties (about a quarter of all homes in the US) are under-priced for the climate risk needed to insure those properties. Without insurance coverage, homeowners are unable to fix damaged property.Furthermore, the most severe effects of climate change disproportionately affect socially vulnerable populations. Less than 60% of single-family homeowners living in areas where mandatory flood insurance is required actually have the necessary insurance. As such, policy makers need to pay more attention to those communities most vulnerable to climate change in order to ensure they have access to the insurance needed to recover from a disaster and achieve financial stability following a climate-related event.Dr. Andrew Rumbach, Senior Fellow in the Metropolitan Housing and Communities Policy Center at the Urban Institute, studies household and community risk to natural hazards and climate change. Dr. Rumbach is involved in the policy implementation and research of numerous federal and state-declared disaster events and is on the forefront of addressing disaster vulnerability and environmental risk.ResourcesNBC: Climate change could impose ‘substantial financial costs' on U.S. household finances, Treasury warnsWorld Bank: Social Dimensions of Climate ChangeUS Treasury: The Impact of Climate Change on American Household FinancesUS Treasury: Fact Sheet: The Impact of Climate Change on American Household FinancesFurther ReadingBBC: Climate change is fuelling the US insurance problemFor a transcript of this episode, please visit https://climatebreak.org/including-marginalized-communities-in-policy-decisions/.

Chris exposes the shocking failure of the Small Business Administration (SBA) to implement fraud detection measures before distributing nearly $1 trillion in COVID relief. Highlighting gaps in the Paycheck Protection Plan (PPP) and EIDL programs, Markowski reveals how fraudulent claims were approved without proper checks, resulting in massive taxpayer losses. The lack of oversight has fueled inflation and left taxpayers footing the bill. www.watchdogonwallstreet.com

March is the month to celebrate Women's History. In business, 40% of new companies are started by women, employing 10 million workers and generating $1.8 trillion in revenue. That's a lot of economic impact to celebrate. I'm Susan Soroko, Director of Creative Economy at Arlington Economic Development in Arlington Virginia. The role of Economic Development is to retain and attract businesses where workers can live and thrive in a great community even when the work world is changing. We support (small) business through programs like BizLaunch and value the importance of placemaking and a sector devoted to creative economy and the arts. Today we're going to talk about the value and impact of women owned businesses on our economy. To help me discuss this I'd like to welcome Mary Wong, Founder and Principal Consultant of EvaluCcraft Global. Ms. Wong is the Founder and Principal Consultant of EvaluCraft Global, LLC, a data-driven and evidence-informed consulting firm that provides public and foreign policy analysis and evaluation services. Established in Arlington in January 2020 to meet an emerging need, EvaluCraft Global, LLC helps public and private sector organizations at all levels around the world engaged in public and international affairs to analyze, assess and evaluate associated policies and programs for effectiveness, impact, output and outcomes. Our core values are competence, transparency and accountability. Prior to launching EvaluCraft Global, Ms. Wong served 11 ½ years with the U.S. Department of State, most recently as Deputy Director in the Office of Management Policy and Resources in the Bureau of International Organization Affairs and prior to that as Deputy Director in the Office of the Fulbright Scholarship Board in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Before joining U.S. federal public service, Ms. Wong worked 8 ½ years on design and administration of international exchanges and training for the Institute of International Education in Washington, DC and in Hanoi, Vietnam. Ms. Wong has a Master of Public Policy degree in Program Evaluation from the George Washington University's Trachtenberg School of Public Policy & Administration, a Master of Arts degree in International Development with a focus on Social and Economic Development from the University of Kentucky's Patterson School of Diplomacy & International Commerce and a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations with a concentration in Political Economy from Drake University in Iowa. Ms. Wong is passionate about foreign policy relevance to the publics. When not working, Ms. Wong enjoys traveling and learning about the world with her husband and two children; cheering on her daughters in all their curricular and extracurricular pursuits, and contributing to community-building through the Bahá'í Faith and service projects. Resources: EvaluCraft Global  Arlington Economic Development BizLaunch Division: BizLaunch  Minority Vendor Fair Upcoming Minority Vendor Showcase at Hyatt Crystal City   General information about the Small Business Administration (SBA): https://www.sba.gov/ SBA resources locally: https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance SCORE Counseling and other resources: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/Small-Business/Small-Business-Programs/One-on-One-Counseling Sign up for The Agile Brand newsletter here: https://agilebrandguide.com/ Get the latest news and updates on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/innovationeconomy/ Listen to our other podcast, The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström: https://www.theagilebrand.show The Innovation Economy podcast is brought to you by Arlington Economic Development: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com The Innovation Economy is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

The Department of Government Oversight and Ethics (DOGE) has recently uncovered significant instances of waste, fraud, and abuse within various government programs. Among the most concerning findings is the revelation that Social Security payments have been mistakenly issued to deceased individuals, resulting in a substantial loss of taxpayer funds. Additionally, the Small Business Administration (SBA) identified millions of dollars in financial disbursements being allocated to individuals under the age of 11 — a clear indication of fraudulent activity exploiting government resources. These discoveries underscore the urgent need for stronger oversight, improved verification processes, and stricter accountability measures to ensure public funds are distributed responsibly and effectively.With Dan Bongino now joining the Trump administration, we have a unique opportunity to expand this program and potentially step into some of the radio slots he's leaving behind. We'd love to have your support in making this happen! If you're interested in helping, check out the link for more details.  https://www.toddhuffshow.com/joinFreedom Marketplace: https://freedommarketplace.net The Stack: https://www.toddhuffshow.com/stack-of-stuff Email: todd@toddhuffshow.comPhone: 317.210.2830Follow us on…Instagram: @toddhuffshowFacebook: The Todd Huff ShowTwitter: @toddhuffshowLinkedIn: The Todd Huff ShowTikTok: @toddhuffshowSupport Our Partners:https://www.toddhuffshow.com/partners Links:https://www.mypillow.com/todd Promo Code: TODDhttps://mystore.com/toddhttps://soltea.com - Promo Code TODD for $29.95 off your first orderEaston University - https://www.eastonuniversity.comkenaifish.com - Promo Code TODD to save 15%

The Department of Government Oversight and Ethics (DOGE) has recently uncovered significant instances of waste, fraud, and abuse within various government programs. Among the most concerning findings is the revelation that Social Security payments have been mistakenly issued to deceased individuals, resulting in a substantial loss of taxpayer funds. Additionally, the Small Business Administration (SBA) identified millions of dollars in financial disbursements being allocated to individuals under the age of 11 — a clear indication of fraudulent activity exploiting government resources. These discoveries underscore the urgent need for stronger oversight, improved verification processes, and stricter accountability measures to ensure public funds are distributed responsibly and effectively.With Dan Bongino now joining the Trump administration, we have a unique opportunity to expand this program and potentially step into some of the radio slots he's leaving behind. We'd love to have your support in making this happen! If you're interested in helping, check out the link for more details.  https://www.toddhuffshow.com/joinFreedom Marketplace: https://freedommarketplace.net The Stack: https://www.toddhuffshow.com/stack-of-stuff Email: todd@toddhuffshow.comPhone: 317.210.2830Follow us on…Instagram: @toddhuffshowFacebook: The Todd Huff ShowTwitter: @toddhuffshowLinkedIn: The Todd Huff ShowTikTok: @toddhuffshowSupport Our Partners:https://www.toddhuffshow.com/partners Links:https://www.mypillow.com/todd Promo Code: TODDhttps://mystore.com/toddhttps://soltea.com - Promo Code TODD for $29.95 off your first orderEaston University - https://www.eastonuniversity.comkenaifish.com - Promo Code TODD to save 15%

Send us a textOn the nostalgic grounds of their shared alma mater, Wharton, Simi speaks with Dilawar Syed, the Deputy Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). A role he was nominated into by President Biden, Administrator Syed was the highest-ranking Muslim official in the U.S. Government at the time of this recording. WATCH IT ON YOUTUBE.Syed came to the SBA from the State Department where he served as Special Representative for Commercial & Business Affairs. As the State Department's top commercial diplomat, Deputy Administrator Syed advocated for U.S. companies to compete and win abroad and helped ensure U.S. competitiveness in markets across the globe. Before joining the Biden Administration, Syed held the roles of CEO at Lumiata, an AI healthcare company, and President at software company, Freshworks.  Earlier in his career, Syed oversaw business operations for Yahoo!'s platforms and infrastructure and was a product manager at Siebel Systems and SAP. His transition to public service is marked by civic efforts at the federal, state, and local levels. He was the founding Chair of the California Entrepreneurship Task Force with the Governor's Office, served on President Obama's White House Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs), and chaired the White House Initiative on AAPIs' Economic Growth Committee. In that role, Syed led the administration's engagement with small businesses across the U.S. after the passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. In 2020, Syed was tapped by San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo to help lead Silicon Valley's pandemic recovery as a member of the Silicon Valley Recovery Roundtable. Syed holds an M.B.A. from Wharton and earned a B.A. in Economics and Computer Science from The University of Texas at Austin.South Asian Trailblazers is an award-winning media platform, community, and agency dedicated to elevating leading South Asians. Join our community at SouthAsianTrailblazers.com. Subscribe to our newsletter to get new episodes and updates on our latest events in your inbox. Follow us @southasiantrailblazers on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, Youtube, and all major podcast platforms, including Apple and Spotify.

The discussion focused on the challenges facing small businesses in the U.S. and the role of the Small Business Administration (SBA) in supporting them. Kerry Lutz and Lloyd Chapman highlighted the SBA's historically low budget of approximately $800 million, which they argue is insufficient given that small businesses account for 99.9% of all firms and create 98% of net new jobs. They expressed skepticism about the government's allocation of funds, particularly regarding the Paycheck Protection Program, which they believe favored larger businesses. The conversation also addressed broader issues of government fraud and the need for increased scrutiny of financial discrepancies, particularly within the Pentagon. Lloyd Chapman emphasized the importance of the Small Business Act of 1953 as a crucial economic stimulus for the middle class, while also noting the disparity in federal contracts awarded to men versus women-owned businesses. He presented data on the SBA 7A loan program, indicating a low default rate, and underscored the significant benefits derived from the SBA's budget. Both speakers expressed concerns about potential moves to close the SBA and warned of an impending economic crisis linked to the national debt. They discussed the need for a fairer tax system and proposed innovative strategies, such as utilizing Bitcoin, to address these economic challenges. Find Lloyd here:  https://asbl.com/ Find Kerry here: http://financialsurvivalnetwork.com/ and here: https://inflation.cafe

In this episode, Tudor speaks with Alfredo Ortiz, CEO of Job Creators Network, about the challenges facing small businesses in America, particularly under the Trump administration. They discuss the impact of regulations, the importance of business plans, and the role of the Small Business Administration (SBA) in supporting entrepreneurs. Alfredo emphasizes the need for a balanced budget amendment and the importance of investing in oneself and one's ideas. The Tudor Dixon Podcast is part of the Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Podcast Network. For more visit TudorDixonPodcast.com To learn more about Job Creators Network CLICK HERE #smallbusiness #regulations #entrepreneurship #SBA #economicrecovery #entrepreneurs #governmentspending #businessplans #investment #Trump See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Immigration Policy and Self-Deportation App: The Trump administration has repurposed the controversial CBP One app, initially used by the Biden administration to facilitate migrant entry, into a self-deportation app called CBP Home. This app allows illegal immigrants to register for self-deportation, with the promise of potential legal re-entry in the future if they comply. Anti-Semitism and College Campuses: We highlight the rise of anti-Semitism on college campuses, particularly following the events of October 7th. It discusses the lack of action from the previous administration and the current efforts by the Trump administration to address these issues, including holding hearings and taking action against universities that tolerate anti-Semitic behavior. Fraudulent Loans During the COVID-19 Pandemic: We reveal significant fraud in the distribution of loans during the COVID-19 pandemic. It mentions that the Small Business Administration (SBA) granted loans worth millions to children and extremely elderly individuals, highlighting the lack of oversight and the potential misuse of funds. Political Commentary and Criticism: Throughout the document, there is a strong political commentary criticizing the Biden administration's policies and actions, contrasting them with the Trump administration's efforts to prioritize American citizens and restore integrity to various systems. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and the Ben Ferguson Show Podcast Wherever You get You're Podcasts. Thanks for ListeningYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's February! It's all about love and the Annual Celebration of Black History Month. I love how the two go hand in hand. This is an extra special podcast because Tara Palacios is filling in this month to host and in addition we are collaborating this month with our partners with the National Landing BID. Black History Month is a vital time to honor the achievements, resilience, and contributions of Black entrepreneurs who have shaped industries and paved the way for future generations. From trailblazers like Madam C.J. Walker to today's innovators in tech, finance, and beyond, their stories serve as powerful lessons in perseverance, creativity, and economic empowerment. As we celebrate Black excellence in entrepreneurship, we also recognize the ongoing challenges and the need for equitable opportunities. Join us as we highlight inspiring Black business leaders, share their journeys, and explore how we can foster a more inclusive and thriving entrepreneurial landscape. Hosting today is Tara Palacios, Director of BizLaunch at Arlington Economic Development in Arlington Virginia. Economic Development agencies throughout the US aim to build sustainable businesses and the role businesses play are vital to the health of our communities. We wholeheartedly support small business through BizLaunch and value the importance of placemaking as a sector devoted to creative economy and the arts. On today's show we are going to discuss black entrepreneurship and what it takes to innovate and create using food as a canvas…. To discuss this topic is the renowned Chef Rock Harper of Queen Mother's Kitchen located in National Landing in Arlington. Resources Queen Mother's Kitchen website: https://www.queenmothercooks.com/ National Landing BID: https://nationallanding.org/ Arlington Economic Development BizLaunch Division: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/Small-Business General information about the Small Business Administration (SBA): https://www.sba.gov/ SBA resources locally: https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance SCORE Counseling and other resources: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/Small-Business/Small-Business-Programs/One-on-One-Counseling Small Business Saturday, November 30, 2024 The Innovation Economy Website: https://www.innovationeconomy.show Sign up for The Agile Brand newsletter here: https://agilebrandguide.com/ Get the latest news and updates on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/innovationeconomy/ Listen to our other podcast, The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström: https://www.theagilebrand.show The Innovation Economy podcast is brought to you by Arlington Economic Development: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com The Innovation Economy is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes back cohost Carl Knoblock, the Virginia District Director for the Small Business Administration (SBA), for a conversation about the importance of preparedness and adaptability in business. Between humorous and honest exchanges, Janet and Carl delve into how businesses manage amidst uncertainties and disruptions, with a specific look at the lessons learned from recent events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Reflecting on the pandemic's unforeseen arrival and the dramatic pivots it necessitated, Carl emphasizes the need for businesses to 'expect the unexpected.' He stresses the importance of not becoming complacent once a business model appears to be running smoothly. 'We're creatures of habit,' Carl notes, alluding to the challenge businesses face in disrupting their own routines to accommodate potential disruptions. Janet builds on this by noting that many businesses adapted during the pandemic only to revert to pre-pandemic operations once the immediate crisis passed. She argues that businesses need to retain a forward-thinking mindset rather than assuming the worst has already happened and won't reoccur. Carl shares insightful anecdotes from his extensive professional background, including his experiences in China during the SARS outbreak and his observations about the global economy's interconnected nature. He discusses the ripple effects of economic disruptions, both in large metropolitan areas and isolated regions, emphasizing the far-reaching impacts of federal decisions on local communities. Janet and Carl discuss the significance of being agile and the pivotal role of government grants and contracts for small businesses and nonprofits. They touch on the growing importance of social media and AI in business strategy and preparedness, offering practical advice for leveraging these tools. Carl advises businesses to look beyond their immediate networks and seek diverse mentorships to tackle staffing issues and other challenges. The conversation wraps up with a reiteration of the need for businesses and nonprofits to constantly re-evaluate and update their plans. Janet underscores the value of expanding one's network, while Carl highlights the necessity of paying attention to federal budgets and policy directions. Their dialogue serves as a robust guide for small businesses on surviving and thriving amidst uncertainty, promoting a mix of resilience, constant learning, and community engagement.

How can small businesses rebuild after a crisis like the recent LA fires? The Small Business Administration (SBA) plays a crucial role in recovery; offering financial assistance, business counseling, and disaster relief. Many independent contractors and home-based businesses don't realize they qualify for SBA loans, but resources are available for a wide range of business types. Julie Clowes, Director of SBA's Los Angeles District Office, joins us to discuss how the SBA provides critical support, especially in times of rebuilding after disaster. From financial assistance to business counseling, the SBA helps entrepreneurs access vital aid. Their local assistance tool on SBA.gov connects businesses with nearby advisors and recovery services. In response to the fires, the SBA is actively providing financial relief and guidance to help businesses, homeowners, and communities rebuild—while also emphasizing policy changes and mitigation efforts to strengthen future resilience.   You'll learn:  How small businesses can access resources like district offices and business centers. What kind of assistance the SBA has to offer in response to the recent LA fires. Who is encouraged to apply for SBA loans and aid. Learn critical strategies for small businesses to prepare for and recover from future disasters. Where individuals can locate resources based on their zip code for small business assistance.   About the Guest: Julie Clowes is the Director of SBA's Los Angeles District Office where she oversees delivery of SBA's programs and services within Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.  Prior to joining the LADO Julie held numerous positions within SBA including Acting Deputy Associate Administrator -Office of Entrepreneurial Development, Director of the San Francisco District Office, Deputy District Director of the Washington Metropolitan Area District Office, Chief Marketing & Outreach attorney in the Office of General Counsel and Public Affairs Specialist with the Michigan District Office. Julie also volunteers her time for colorectal cancer advocacy efforts and was a Board member of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.   Engage with us: LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook: @PasadenaCityCollegeEWD Join our newsletter for more on this topic: ewdpulse.com Visit: PCC EWD website   More from Julie Clowes & U.S. Small Business Administration   Website: https://www.sba.gov/ LinkedIn: @julie-clowes & @us-small-business-administration Facebook & X (Twitter): @sba.gov   Partner with us! Contact our host Salvatrice Cummo directly: scummo@pasadena.edu Want to be a guest on the show? Click HERE to inquire about booking    Find the transcript of this episode here   Please rate us and leave us your thoughts and comments on Apple Podcasts; we'd love to hear from you!  

Hire Yourself Podcast with Pete GilfillanPete Gilfillan tackles one of the most common concerns among aspiring franchise owners: How do I fund my business? In this episode, Pete breaks down various funding options, from SBA loans to leveraging retirement funds, offering practical strategies to help you secure the capital you need to launch and scale your franchise successfully.In this episode, Pete discusses:SBA Loans and Traditional LoansPete explains how Small Business Administration (SBA) loans work, including their guarantees, rates, and timelines. He also highlights how traditional loans can be an option for experienced business owners or existing franchises.Using Home EquityPete emphasizes the value of tapping into home equity as a funding source, enabling you to leverage one of your largest assets to invest in your business.Leveraging Retirement AccountsDiscover how you can use your 401(k) or IRA to fund your franchise in a tax-compliant way, turning your retirement savings into an investment in your future.Combining Capital SourcesPete shares examples of how entrepreneurs can mix and match funding options—such as cash, loans, and retirement funds—to open multiple franchise locations over time.Key Takeaways:Know Your OptionsFrom SBA loans to ROBS (Rollover for Business Startups), understanding the various funding methods available can help you craft the best approach for your business goals.Leverage Your AssetsUsing home equity or investment portfolios strategically can unlock the capital needed to kickstart or scale your franchise.Plan for GrowthCombining funding sources allows you to expand your business systematically, reducing risk while maximizing opportunities."Investing in a franchise isn't just about having the money—it's about knowing how to leverage the right resources to build your dream business." — Pete GilfillanCONNECT WITH PETE GILFILLAN:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petegilfillan/Website: https://www.hireyourself.com/CONNECT WITH HIRE YOURSELF PODCAST:Website: https://www.hireyourself.com/podcastApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hire-yourself-podcast/id1472038217Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7eTKOLjuUWbf7BRtGtp6dP?si=eb2f7b38bd884804YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@hireyourself7642Email: info@hireyourself.com

The Business of Meetings – Episode 255 - 2025 Business Deals: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know with Ami Kassar We are delighted to welcome Ami Kassar, the founder and CEO of MultiFunding, as our guest today. Ami is a member of the EO and the president of the EO Philadelphia chapter, and he brings a wealth of expertise and experience.  With the shift in administration, most business owners are curious about the future of mergers and acquisitions for small businesses. Some owners are considering selling, while others are looking to buy. Ami is here to shed light on this important topic and share his insights. Join us for his expert perspective on what lies ahead for small businesses. Founding MultiFunding In 2010, after losing his corporate position as Chief Innovation Officer at the largest credit card issuer for small businesses, Ami started MultiFunding. During the Great Recession, he got laid off by the company he was working for after helping them terminate 960 employees. It was a sobering experience he vowed never to repeat. On his first day unemployed, Ami withdrew his home equity credit line and founded MultiFunding to help entrepreneurs access optimal debt solutions while maintaining control of their businesses. Core Values The core value at MultiFunding is to deal with entrepreneurs in the same way their team members would prefer themselves. That principle underpins every decision, from hiring to firing. The company fosters a transparent culture where employees either thrive within three months or move on. MultiFunding always upholds the standard of only offering advice that the team would follow themselves. The SBA Loan Advantage Today, 95% of their work at MultiFunding involves Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, which are often the best option for entrepreneurs seeking to grow responsibly. SBA loans allow lenders to offer riskier loans with government guarantees, typically up to 75% of the loan value in case of default. Ami clarifies that being declined by one lender does not mean disqualification from SBA programs, as many institutions with varying criteria participate in that market. Challenging Top-Line Growth Celebrations Ami challenges the focus on top-line growth, as celebrated by rankings like the Inc. 5000. He argues that many fast-growing businesses are unsustainable, leading to burnout or collapse. Instead, he proposes a Sleep 5000 award to reward entrepreneurs who achieve sustainable revenue targets while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Selling and Buying Small Businesses Ami advises business owners to identify their target buyers clearly, whether they are private equity, strategic investors, or individuals, and set realistic expectations for valuation. He emphasizes the importance of knowing the minimum cash required to close a sale.  Economic Outlook for 2025 Predicting economic trends for 2025 is challenging, especially with uncertainties in interest rates, tariffs, and federal policies. Ami warns against relying on forecasts, given the unpredictable domino effects of COVID-era policies and upcoming political changes. He advises entrepreneurs to focus on financial discipline and adaptability rather than chasing speculative predictions. Bio: Ami Kassar, founder and CEO of MultiFunding and author of The Growth Dilemma, has earned a national reputation as a thought leader in business finance. An in-demand speaker and trusted advisor to growth-focused business leaders, he has helped thousands of business owners achieve ambitious growth goals through creative and personalized funding solutions. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Connect with Ami Kassar On his website LinkedIn Daily Blog          

The Buying Online Businesses podcast is here with another exciting episode! Hosted by Jaryd Krause, this episode explores what it really takes to buy or sell an eight-figure digital business. Joining the discussion is Mark Woodbury, Managing Director of Raincatcher Digital Division. Mark brings years of experience helping entrepreneurs evaluate and sell e-commerce stores, SaaS companies, media businesses, marketing agencies, and more. Mark’s journey includes co-founding and leading a boutique brokerage that focused on digital businesses. He’s also been a featured guest on podcasts and conferences, sharing advice on how to reduce risks, prepare businesses for sale, and achieve top-dollar exits. In this episode, Mark talks about: How to finance a seven- or eight-figure business purchase, from SBA loans to private equity. The types of buyers—like private equity firms and larger companies—who are acquiring these businesses. Steps business owners can take to make their digital businesses more valuable, whether in e-commerce, SaaS, or media. The importance of due diligence and why selling or buying a business often takes at least a year to do right. This episode is perfect for anyone growing their portfolio, thinking about selling, or curious about scaling to the next level. It’s packed with tips and real-world examples. Don’t miss it! Episode Highlights 03:00 How Mark started with the Raincatcher Digital Division? 09:30 How to prepare for a business exit? 17:00 A sneak peek to selling AI companies 28:00 Due diligence in mid-market businesses 33:30 Where to find Mark? Key Takeaways ➥ Small businesses face more challenges finding buyers due to limited scalability and localized markets. Larger deals with diversified revenue streams and strong financial performance attract multiple bids. ➥ Entrepreneurs in AI or software development should recognize the value of their innovations in the eyes of larger SaaS companies. ➥ Acquisitions of companies in the $4M–$50M range are common, and financing often involves private equity (PE) funds. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans can go up to $8M but are capped, requiring alternative or creative financing options. About The Guest Mark Woodbury serves as Managing Director of the Raincatcher Digital Division which is dedicated to assisting successful entrepreneurs through the nuanced process of evaluating and selling their eCommerce, SaaS, media website, marketing agency or other digital service business. Mark jumped on the opportunity to join the Raincatcher team and assist in building out the digital division after co-founding and acting as the CEO of a boutique brokerage firm that worked exclusively with digitally native companies. Mark has been a guest on a handful of podcasts and conferences to discuss everything from the nuances of selling an Amazon business to how business owners can mitigate risk with content websites and prepare them for an optimal exit. Connect with Mark Woodbury ➥ https://raincatcher.com/teammate/mark-woodbury-2/ ➥ https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-woodbury/ Resource Links ➥ Sell your business to us here - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/sell-your-business/ ➥ Buying Online Businesses Website - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com ➥ Download the Due Diligence Framework - https://buyingonlinebusinesses.com/freeresources/ ➥ GoDaddy (Website Hosting & Buying Domains) - https://bit.ly/3YiRkWV ➥ Mangools (SEO tool) - https://bit.ly/3wV4hLc ➥ Ezoic (Ad Network) - https://bit.ly/3NuVR5P

The Department of Veterans Affairs has stopped accepting applications for the certification or re-verification of veteran-owned small businesses, effective October 24, 2022. Starting on January 1, 2023, the Small Business Administration (SBA) will take over all verification processes. Firms that are already verified do not need to take any action except for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) and VOSBs, whose verification expires before the transfer date. They must have applied for re-verification later than October 24, 2022. Self-certified firms must apply through the SBA to maintain their status as veteran-owned small businesses or service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses. Tracking solicitations on SAM shows that most pre-solicitations that meet a socioeconomic designation are falling under the category of veteran-owned small businesses. Tune in to this episode to learn more!

A quick online search of Cade Martin Photography will get you to a showcase of exceptional commercial work, video reels, sought after portraits and much more. But if you're trying to find out his secrets to business success – or even what he looks like! – you'll have to keep looking. I'm Susan Soroko, Director of Creative Economy at Arlington Economic Development in Arlington Virginia. The role of Economic Development is to retain and attract businesses where workers can live and thrive in a great community even when the work world is changing. We support (small) business through programs like BizLaunch and value the importance of placemaking and a sector devoted to creative economy and the arts. Today we're going to talk about art and business and the huge shifts in professional photography. Cade Martin's work is rooted in collaboration, flexibility, and sparks of creativity. Every image tells a story, whether in the spotlight of campaigns or in the moments in between. Cade lives in the Washington, DC area. He has worked with brands from Starbucks to Target, FDA to NPR, National Geographic to Sesame Street, bringing campaigns to life on budgets large or small. Resources View Cade Martin's work: https://www.cademartinphoto.com https://www.cademartin.com Arlington Economic Development BizLaunch Division: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/Small-Business General information about the Small Business Administration (SBA): https://www.sba.gov/ SBA resources locally: https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance SCORE Counseling and other resources: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/Small-Business/Small-Business-Programs/One-on-One-Counseling Small Business Saturday, November 30, 2024 The Innovation Economy Website: https://www.innovationeconomy.show Sign up for The Agile Brand newsletter here: https://agilebrandguide.com/ Get the latest news and updates on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/innovationeconomy/ Listen to our other podcast, The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström: https://www.theagilebrand.show The Innovation Economy podcast is brought to you by Arlington Economic Development: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com The Innovation Economy is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

A quick online search of Cade Martin Photography will get you to a showcase of exceptional commercial work, video reels, sought after portraits and much more. But if you're trying to find out his secrets to business success – or even what he looks like! – you'll have to keep looking. I'm Susan Soroko, Director of Creative Economy at Arlington Economic Development in Arlington Virginia. The role of Economic Development is to retain and attract businesses where workers can live and thrive in a great community even when the work world is changing. We support (small) business through programs like BizLaunch and value the importance of placemaking and a sector devoted to creative economy and the arts. Today we're going to talk about art and business and the huge shifts in professional photography. Cade Martin's work is rooted in collaboration, flexibility, and sparks of creativity. Every image tells a story, whether in the spotlight of campaigns or in the moments in between. Cade lives in the Washington, DC area. He has worked with brands from Starbucks to Target, FDA to NPR, National Geographic to Sesame Street, bringing campaigns to life on budgets large or small. Resources View Cade Martin's work: https://www.cademartinphoto.com https://www.cademartin.com Arlington Economic Development BizLaunch Division: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/Small-Business General information about the Small Business Administration (SBA): https://www.sba.gov/ SBA resources locally: https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance SCORE Counseling and other resources: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/Small-Business/Small-Business-Programs/One-on-One-Counseling Small Business Saturday, November 30, 2024 The Innovation Economy Website: https://www.innovationeconomy.show Sign up for The Agile Brand newsletter here: https://agilebrandguide.com/ Get the latest news and updates on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/innovationeconomy/ Listen to our other podcast, The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström: https://www.theagilebrand.show The Innovation Economy podcast is brought to you by Arlington Economic Development: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com The Innovation Economy is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

Welcome to The Georgia Politics Podcast! On today's show, Chris Carr announces first for governor, Kelly Loeffler gets a nomination, and Mack Jackson's challenger not going away yet. First up, Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr has announced his candidacy for the 2026 gubernatorial race, aiming to succeed term-limited Governor Brian Kemp. Carr, a Republican, emphasized job creation, public safety, and defending constitutional freedoms as central themes of his campaign. President-elect Donald Trump has nominated former Georgia Senator Kelly Loeffler to lead the Small Business Administration (SBA) in his upcoming administration. Loeffler, known for her business acumen and close ties to Trump, previously served in the Senate and was a significant donor to Trump's 2024 campaign. Republican Tracy Wheeler is challenging her 48-vote loss to Democrat Mack Jackson in Georgia's House District 128, citing alleged voting irregularities. Her lawsuit claims ineligible voters participated, eligible voters were excluded, and ballots were wrongly rejected. If proven, a new election could be ordered. The Georgia GOP supports the challenge, citing redistricting errors. Jackson won by 0.2%, with results certified last week. Georgia lawmakers may revisit revising the 1985 Quality Basic Education Act, spurred by a new audit revealing inefficiencies in school funding. The report highlights a 30% rise in administrative expenses from 2019-2023, outpacing inflation, and inconsistent links between spending and student outcomes. Previous reform attempts stalled, but this data could reignite debate on addressing districts' diverse needs. Underhyped/Overhyped, Play-Along-at-Home and much more on today's jam packed episode! Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod Preston Thompson on Twitter @pston3 Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1 Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

99.9% of businesses in the US are considered small businesses, employing over 61 million Americans, or nearly half of private sector employees. This makes small businesses a critical part of the business world and the communities they serve. I'm Susan Soroko, Director of Creative Economy at Arlington Economic Development in Arlington Virginia. The role of Economic Development is to retain and attract businesses where workers can live and thrive in a great community even when the work world is changing. We support (small) business through programs like BizLaunch and value the importance of placemaking and a sector devoted to creative economy and the arts. Today we're going to talk about small business/big economic impact. To help me discuss the role of small businesses, I'd like to welcome Larry G. Webb, District Director, Small Business Administration (SBA) Resources Arlington Economic Development BizLaunch Division: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/Small-Business General information about the Small Business Administration (SBA): https://www.sba.gov/ SBA resources locally: https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance SCORE Counseling and other resources: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/Small-Business/Small-Business-Programs/One-on-One-Counseling Small Business Saturday, November 30, 2024 The Innovation Economy Website: https://www.innovationeconomy.show Sign up for The Agile Brand newsletter here: https://agilebrandguide.com/ Get the latest news and updates on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/innovationeconomy/ Listen to our other podcast, The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström: https://www.theagilebrand.show The Innovation Economy podcast is brought to you by Arlington Economic Development: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com The Innovation Economy is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

99.9% of businesses in the US are considered small businesses, employing over 61 million Americans, or nearly half of private sector employees. This makes small businesses a critical part of the business world and the communities they serve. I'm Susan Soroko, Director of Creative Economy at Arlington Economic Development in Arlington Virginia. The role of Economic Development is to retain and attract businesses where workers can live and thrive in a great community even when the work world is changing. We support (small) business through programs like BizLaunch and value the importance of placemaking and a sector devoted to creative economy and the arts. Today we're going to talk about small business/big economic impact. To help me discuss the role of small businesses, I'd like to welcome Larry G. Webb, District Director, Small Business Administration (SBA) Resources Arlington Economic Development BizLaunch Division: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/Small-Business General information about the Small Business Administration (SBA): https://www.sba.gov/ SBA resources locally: https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance SCORE Counseling and other resources: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com/Small-Business/Small-Business-Programs/One-on-One-Counseling Small Business Saturday, November 30, 2024 The Innovation Economy Website: https://www.innovationeconomy.show Sign up for The Agile Brand newsletter here: https://agilebrandguide.com/ Get the latest news and updates on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/innovationeconomy/ Listen to our other podcast, The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström: https://www.theagilebrand.show The Innovation Economy podcast is brought to you by Arlington Economic Development: https://www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com The Innovation Economy is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo, and Robert James, II, President of Carver Financial Corporation join.JobsThe Black unemployment rate was 5.7% in September, near historic lows. The Black unemployment rate was 9.3% when President Biden took office.2023 was the lowest year for Black unemployment on record.16 million jobs have been created since President Biden took office, including nearly 2.4 million jobs for Black workers—achieving one of the lowest gaps between Black and White unemployment on record.Prime-age Black women have seen their labor force participation rates climb by about 3% compared to pre-pandemic levels.Wages/WealthReal wages for Black Americans grew over 5% between 2019 and the four-quarters ending in Q3 2024.Black net worth is up 60% between 2019 and 2022 and the Black-white wealth gap is at its narrowest level in nearly 20 years.HousingBlack homeownership rates increased by 3.5 percentage points from 2019 through the four-quarters ending in Q2 2024. In the years of the Financial Crisis, Black homeownership had dropped 1.75 percentage points.As of Q2 2024, 37% of Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) homeowners self-identified as Black.In 2021, eviction filing rates in Black neighborhoods were less than half their historic average.41% of ERA payments have gone to Black families as of Q1 2024.Child PovertyOver 800,000 Black children were lifted out of poverty in 2021 through the expansion of the Child Tax Credit under the American Rescue Plan, helping drive the child poverty rate for Black children to its lowest level on record.Small BusinessThe number of Black households owning a business has more than doubled since 2019.Black business ownership is up 6.2 percentage points from 2019 to 2022 to 11%, the highest rate in history.In 2021, Black-owned companies employed 1.4 million people and paid over $50 billion in annual payroll.·       The number of Black workers that were self-employed—a measure of entrepreneurship—increased by over 30% from 2019 through 2024. ·       The number and dollar value of SBA-backed loans to Black-owned businesses have more than doubled since 2020. The Small Business Administration (SBA) has now surpassed the $1 billion mark in lending to Black-owned small businesses for the third year, almost double 2019 lending amounts.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today we have an exceptional guest joining us, Shane McCall. Shane is an equity partner at Koprince McCall Pottroff LLC and the mastermind behind the renowned blog smallgovcon.com. With extensive experience in federal contracting, Shane's expertise is invaluable for businesses looking to navigate the complexities of government procurement. In this episode, Shane delves into the strategic and legal intricacies that can make or break a small business in the federal contracting arena. His firm has been instrumental in guiding countless businesses through the labyrinth of federal regulations, ensuring they avoid costly pitfalls and secure lucrative contracts. But that's not all. Shane's impact extends beyond his legal prowess. He's an advocate for small businesses, providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to compete on a level playing field. His insights offer a blend of legal acumen and practical advice, making this episode a must-listen for anyone involved in government contracting. Throughout this episode, Shane opens up about key strategies that can help small businesses succeed. From the importance of understanding the Small Business Administration (SBA) rules to forming effective joint ventures and teaming agreements, Shane's advice is both practical and actionable. One of the key takeaways from this conversation is Shane's deep dive into the SBA rule governing the relationship between a new small business and its former company. He offers a clear and concise breakdown of this often-misunderstood regulation, providing listeners with a clearer understanding of how to stay compliant. Stay tuned for an episode packed with golden insights and actionable takeaways that will help you steer clear of legal pitfalls and thrive in the competitive world of federal contracting. Contact: smccall@koprince.com  Twitter: https://x.com/SmallGovCon  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/Koprince-Law-LLC  Website: https://www.koprince.com/  Blog Site: https://smallgovcon.com/  Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/KoprinceLaw  General Email: info@koprince.com  Phone: 785-200-8919