Learn how to create a marketing plan, choose the right channels, track ROI, and grow your business with proven strategies and tools. By: Nicole Fallon , Contributor Whether it’s through traditional advertising channels, modern digital platforms, or word-of-mouth referrals, every business needs to spread awareness about its products or services if it wants to grow. A…

Want to launch a business that’s poised for success right now? Get inspired by our list of businesses that will thrive in 2025 and beyond. With numerous emerging technologies and shifting consumer needs, 2025 is an ideal year to launch a business. New business applications have skyrocketed from 2.8 million to over 5.5 million in…

Has this happened to you? Whether online or in-person, there’s a customer who lingers, hesitates. They’re eyeing your item or menu. They’re asking questions about it. You think they’re going to buy and then they walk away or abandon their online cart without making a decision. They don’t say no, they just don’t say yes.…

Explore how these 13 ChatGPT prompts can transform your small business, from streamlining your workflow to refining your customer service. By: Miranda Fraraccio , Contributor ChatGPT has quickly become a household name, with businesses of all sizes leveraging the AI-powered tool to automate tasks and advance their workflows. While its adoption has been rapid, understanding the best…

Work-life integration and work-life balance are two distinct ways to think about the boundaries (or lack thereof) between personal and professional lives. By: Danielle Fallon-O’Leary , Contributor The right balance between work and life varies from person to person. While some professionals separate the two (work-life balance), others seek to blend them (work-life integration). Regardless…

Understanding the rules and following email marketing best practices is key to ensuring your commercial messages comply with regulations. By: Julianna Lopez , Contributor Email marketing is a highly effective marketing channel with an impressive return on investment (up to $40 for every dollar spent, on average). However, small business owners must comply with email marketing rules and…

As summer hits its peak(yeah, it’s hard to believe)and the back-to-school buzz begins, this is the perfect time to refresh your marketing. It’s also a great time to connect with your customers in meaningful, fun, and creative ways. And you don’t have to be a retail shop to “sell summer” or “back-to-school.” No matter what…

By: Thaddeus Swanek, Author The Q2 2025 Small Business Index rose slightly but was accompanied by lingering economic uncertainties about the future. The MetLife & U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Index for Q2 2025 rose slightly to 65.2 this quarter, up from 62.3 in Q1. While this uptick reflects optimism around business health and cash flow,…

CNBC ranked North Carolina the No.1 state in the U.S. to do business in 2025. Gov. Josh Stein said $17 billion in investments have been announced this year alone. Picture: Courtesy of Josh Stein. May was North Carolina’s second-busiest month on record for new business starts, new data shows. Secretary of State Elaine Marshall said…

These expert-approved strategies can help small business owners create a smart and financially healthy budget. By: Kaytlyn Smith, Contributor Creating a budget is vital for the financial health and longevity of your small business. However, it can also be a daunting task. From monthly budgets to vendor choices, there are many elements to plan for…