Devin Lavengood, Commercial Lender

09/22/2026

A small business should build its 2027 marketing budget around specific business goals, priority audiences, proven marketing channels, creative needs, testing, and measurement.

Is your business intentionally investing in its marketing efforts? Or are you simply reacting to every new platform, trend, and sales pitch, hoping to

09/18/2026

Every business now has two stories — the one you tell and the one AI tells. Most founders have never checked the second one.

I rewrote my agency's website, but AI engines kept repeating the old version — here's what that taught me about who really controls your story now.

09/13/2026

It wasn’t that long ago that AI felt out of reach to many small business owners. Flash forward to today and AI is helping local businesses manage customer communications, create social media campaigns, schedule appointments, monitor inventory, and so much more.

Small businesses are using AI but a majority admit they could benefit from training to optimize how they use it. Here are 4 ways small businesses can get smarter about AI.

09/08/2026

The narrative of the one-person billion-dollar company built entirely on AI is everywhere right now. It's a compelling story, but it raises a question of whether it's actually something to aspire to.

https://ow.ly/r7YC50ZJBSQ

09/04/2026

Fraud can happen to anyone. Watch out for these common red flags and protect yourself from scams. If something feels off, trust your instincts.

08/27/2026

Experts presented useful tips and an optimistic view of artificial intelligence to the House Small Business Committee, insisting that small businesses deploying AI will add, not cut, workers.

Experts presented useful tips and an optimistic view of artificial intelligence to a House Committee, insisting that small businesses using AI add sales and workers.

08/24/2026

The emergence of AI agents has challenged our previous concepts of what is possible. These systems can plan, act and execute workflows with increasing autonomy.

How can we guide our people toward an entirely new suite of skills while setting them up for future success?

08/04/2026

This month's retail sales growth shows the resilience of our local economies, with clothing and accessories leading the way.

US retail sales have increased for the ninth month in a row, fuelled in part by gains in clothing and accessories stores and summer sales events.

07/31/2026

As the retail landscape evolves, it’s essential for businesses to deliver real value and seamless experiences to their customers.

Retailers should rethink their loyalty strategies to meet consumer expectations of providing real-time value and instant gratification. ​

07/24/2026

Starting a new business is a thrilling journey, filled with potential! However, laying a solid foundation requires strategic thinking. From defining your brand to choosing effective marketing methods, every choice matters.

Learn how to market your small business on a tight budget with strategic branding, audience targeting, and cost-effective tactics that drive real growth.