M/WBE certifications are an excellent tool for small business owners who belong to historically disadvantaged groups. These government-backed certifications provide a high level of support and access for these small businesses, including limited competition on certain contracts and specific tax breaks. Let’s dive into these two certifications, as well as the requirements needed to apply ..read more

Small business owners are determined and passionate, which often results in trying to take on every aspect of running their business. One area where entrepreneurs struggle the most is marketing, especially when it comes to branding. Creating and maintaining a consistent brand identity that represents the core of your business is essential in developing brand ..read more

With interest rates on the rise and banks implementing strict underwriting criteria, many small business owners are looking for creative ways to infuse cash into their companies. Whether it’s to start a new venture, hire and train staff, purchase equipment or expand to a new location, you need access to capital at a reasonable cost ..read more

Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and in today's digital age, having a solid online presence is essential for success. ChatGPT is a powerful tool that can help small businesses become much more efficient, improve customer engagement, and ultimately increase sales.  In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of ChatGPT and why ..read more

As of 2022, more than 32.5 million small businesses exist in the US. Businesses like yours are vital to the economy and our local Rhode Island communities. With recession talk looming and many small business owners still recovering from the impact of COVID-19, you may be worried about the U.S. heading toward a recession. We ..read more

For many small businesses, getting ready for the tax filing season can feel like a scramble to find the right documents, fill out the correct forms, and follow the proper steps. There are ways to make the experience less overwhelming and run more smoothly.   Small business tax preparation starts with ensuring your books are in ..read more

There is no shortage of tasty restaurants here in Rhode Island. From our famous calamari and clam cakes to coffee milk and doughboys, we have something for everyone. Well, almost. A blossoming food trend around the world and, budding here in the Ocean State, is the craving for plant-based options. Plant-based foods currently drive $7.4 ..read more

For centuries, trading commodities amongst different communities has been a way of life and a profitable way to source new demand for supply. Consider this: 95 percent of the world’s population lives outside of the U.S. and middle-income populations are steadily rising in global markets.  As our world becomes increasingly advanced with new technologies, the ..read more

  Every year, the more than 60 Small Business Development Centers across the nation come together to choose a State Star. These are the individuals working hard to ensure the prosperity of small businesses in their local communities and are, overall, an example of excellence. This year’s 2022 Rhode Island State Star is a long-time ..read more

For centuries, trading commodities amongst different communities has been a way of life and a profitable way to source new demand for supply. Consider this: 95 percent of the world’s population lives outside of the U.S. and middle-income populations are steadily rising in global markets.  As our world becomes increasingly advanced with new technologies, the ..read more