Matthew Birch is a journalist based in Memphis, United States of America.

The Inflation Threat

14 Feb 2024  |  HPAC Magazine  |  English  |  Small Business Challenges

The article discusses the impact of inflation on small businesses, highlighting the challenges faced by business owners like Frank and Tom. It shares the story of Jim, an electrician who successfully navigated inflation by quickly adjusting prices and offering wage increases. The article emphasizes the importance of monitoring trends, responding swiftly to cost increases, and hiring professional advisors to mitigate the effects of inflation. It also provides practical tips for small businesses to protect themselves from inflationary pressures.

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Small Business Challenges Inflation Economic Trends

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Durrie Bouscaren is a freelance radio and digital journalist based in Istanbul, Turkey. 

Previously, she covered breaking news and health care for National Public Radio affiliates in the United States. In 2018, she reported from Papua New Guinea as NPR's John Alexander Fellow. 

She is ...

Small businesses already feeling the pain after Instagram block in Turkey

08 Aug 2024  |  theworld.org  |  English  |  Small Business

The Turkish government's unexpected block of Instagram has significantly impacted small businesses that rely on the platform for sales and advertising. The block was a response to Instagram's removal of posts expressing condolences for Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh's death. Small business owners like Idil Kafali and Meriç Korkmaz report decreased sales and uncertainty. Despite the use of VPNs to bypass the block, the situation remains challenging. President Erdoğan justified the ban as a stand against 'digital fascism,' while Meta is in talks to reverse the decision. Legal challenges have been filed, but past instances suggest a prolonged wait for resolution.

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Small Business Social Media Government Regulation

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Far Right

Political View

Alexander Brand is a journalist based in Stellenbsoch, South Africa (near Cape Town). He currently works as a freelance writer and reporter for The South African (www.thesouthafrican.com). Before that, he spent three years at his community newspaper DieMatie (www.diematie.com).

AI-powered reputation management: The next big thing for SMBs

09 Jun 2024  |  Bizcommunity  |  English  |  AI in Business

AI technologies are revolutionizing reputation management for small and medium businesses (SMBs), offering tools like Brand24, Mention, Meltwater, Brandwatch, and Lexalytics that provide real-time monitoring and analysis. These tools enable SMBs, particularly in South Africa and Africa, to proactively manage their online presence, anticipate potential crises, and enhance their SEO strategies. While AI offers significant advantages, ethical considerations such as privacy, bias, and transparency remain crucial. The integration of AI in reputation management not only helps in crisis management but also strengthens customer relationships and trust. Businesses are encouraged to start small with AI tools and gradually expand their use to enhance their brand image and resilience.

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Small and Medium Businesses AI in Business Reputation Management

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Anna-Catherine Brigida is a journalist covering immigration, human rights and gender violence in Mexico and Central America.

A peek inside the oven: The story behind a Houston bakery’s TikTok-viral pumpkin spice concha

27 Nov 2024  |  Houston Landing  |  English  |  Small Business Success

La Hacienda Bakery in Houston has gained viral success with its pumpkin spice concha, a modern twist on a traditional Mexican pastry. The bakery, run by Leslye Rangel and her family, has seen a significant increase in profits and customer base after their product went viral on TikTok. The bakery's success is attributed to a combination of innovative marketing strategies and a deep connection to Mexican cultural heritage. The bakery plans to expand its operations and continue creating new products, while Rangel transitions from her law enforcement career to focus on the business.

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Small Business Success Viral Marketing Cultural Heritage

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Luis Chirino is a journalist based in La Habana, Cuba.

Cuban family business fights food shortage

17 Dec 2023  |  newsus.cgtn.com  |  English  |  Small Business

A fuel crisis and frequent power outages in Cuba have led to a food production shortage, causing many to struggle. A small family business in Havana is addressing this issue by producing gluten-free flour from local produce.

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Small Business Food Shortage

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Mostafa Darwish is an  award winning Egyptian visual journalist currently based in Ireland. 
In 2019, Darwish won the Thomson Foundation’s mobile journalism (‘mojo’) competition, for his report on Egypt’s sharp fare increases to an already inadequate train system. 
Since beginning his career at ...

Why I started a mobile car detailing business in Charleston, West Virginia

18 Nov 2024  |  medium.com  |  English  |  Small Business

A 19-year-old entrepreneur and college student founded Charleston Mobile Car Detailing to address the lack of high-quality mobile car detailing services in Charleston, WV. The business offers convenient, professional detailing services directly to customers' locations, specializing in full details and ceramic coatings. The founder's passion for cars and entrepreneurship, combined with a desire to support the local community, drives the business's mission to provide top-quality service and convenience to busy car owners in Charleston, South Charleston, and the Kanawha Valley.

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Small Business Entrepreneurship

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Kiran Dhillon is a journalist based in Toronto, Canada. She has worked as a television, radio, print and online journalist.

Since July 2016, she has worked as a web producer for CTVNews.ca as well an on-air journalist for CTV News Channel. In this role, Kiran helps to oversee the direction and ...

Program helps fund outdoor dining for small businesses in Queens

12 Nov 2024  |  pix11.com  |  English  |  Small Business Support

A new pilot program, Dining Out in District 6, is providing $2 million in federal funding to support outdoor dining for small businesses in Queens, New York. Spearheaded by U.S. Rep. Grace Meng, the initiative aims to equip 60 restaurants with compliant outdoor dining structures. The New York City Department of Small Business Services administers the program, emphasizing its importance for local economies and community spaces. Businesses like Mojitos Restaurant and Bar have already seen significant benefits, with increased summer income and customer satisfaction. The program addresses both business needs and community concerns with modular, regulation-compliant setups.

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Small Business Support Outdoor Dining

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David Gonzalez specialize in video, photography, and graphics. Based in Miami, United States of America.

He Began With Sauce. Here’s Why This Brisket Sandwich Goes for $13.50.

11 Jun 2024  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  Small Business

Mr. Rivera, a New York City native and barbecue enthusiast, transitioned from being an executive chef to marketing his own Puerto Rican-inspired sauces. His journey, influenced by a memorable sauce tasted at a Mets game, led him to culinary school and eventually to selling his sauces at local breweries. The unexpected popularity of his food samples, especially during the pandemic, has now positioned him on the brink of establishing a full-time small business with the support of his family. His menu highlights Puerto Rican classics, aiming to honor the island's Indigenous culinary traditions.

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Small Business Culinary Arts Pandemic Impact

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Duncan Graham is a journalist based in Malang, East Java, Indonesia.

Incredible attrition: dire warning for small business

22 Nov 2024  |  Michael West  |  English  |  Small Business Challenges

Small businesses in Australia, particularly in the hospitality sector, are facing significant challenges due to high inflation, increased costs, and regulatory burdens. P&V Liquor co-founder Mike Bennie highlights the high attrition rate and reduced consumer spending. A survey by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry reveals that over a third of small business owners have been diagnosed with mental health conditions, exacerbated by overwhelming regulations. The ACCI calls for policy changes to alleviate the regulatory pressures on small businesses.

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Small Business Challenges Economic Conditions Mental Health

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Center

Political View

Keith Grinsted is a published author (Business Expert Press New York)
He is also a blogger on a number of sites including Huffington Post UK
He is based in Sudbury Suffolk.

How AI will affect small businesses in Africa

15 Dec 2023  |  The Patriotic Vanguard  |  English  |  Small Businesses

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionize small businesses in Africa by streamlining operations, enhancing efficiency, and facilitating data-driven decision-making. AI can help small businesses extend their market reach through e-commerce and personalized customer experiences. However, challenges such as initial investment costs and the need for digital literacy must be addressed. Governments and stakeholders are encouraged to promote AI education and supportive policies to ensure equitable AI adoption, ultimately empowering small businesses and fostering growth, efficiency, and global connectivity.

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Small Businesses Artificial Intelligence Economic Development

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Paul Hellard is a journalist based in Melbourne, Australia.

Custom Plenum Creations

16 Dec 2023  |  AMTIL  |  English  |  Small Business

Ariel Banco, founder of Custom Plenum Creations, has successfully streamlined his small business operations by employing Fusion 360 for design and modelling, and a custom post-processor developed by Scott Moyse from Cadpro. This combination has enabled Banco to achieve 5-axis-like machining capabilities on his 4-axis CNC machines, significantly reducing production time and costs. Fusion 360's ease of use and Cadpro's custom solution have been pivotal in enhancing the efficiency and productivity of Banco's business.

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Small Business Manufacturing Technology

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Editorial and commerical photographer based in Edinburgh, United Kingdom. I tell stories for customers and help brands look their best.

Australia: More franchising changes

16 Feb 2024  |  Lexology  |  English  |  Small Business

On 8 February 2024, the Australian Minister for Small Business released an Independent Review of the Franchising Code of Conduct, led by Dr Michael Schaper. The Review found the Code generally fit for purpose but recommended several changes to enhance its effectiveness. Key recommendations include simplifying pre-contract disclosure, reducing disclosure obligations at renewal, and extending certain obligations imposed on new vehicle motor dealer franchisors to all franchisors. The Review also suggested investigating a licensing regime for franchisors and improving data collection about the sector. The Government's response to these recommendations is expected by mid-2024, with potential changes to the Code by April 2025.

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Small Business Franchising Code of Conduct Regulatory Changes

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Emma Jones is journalist based in London, United Kingdom. Her specialities acrossTV, radio and print are international news, politics, arts, culture, entertainment and feminism.

Without support in the Budget Britain's brilliant small businesses will continue to struggle, says EMMA JONES

05 Mar 2024  |  Mail Online  |  English  |  Small Business

Emma Jones, founder of Enterprise Nation, calls for the UK Government to provide more support to small businesses in the upcoming Budget amidst a recession. She highlights the struggles of small businesses with inflation, energy bills, and late payments, emphasizing the need for investment in digital skills and technology to stay competitive. Jones outlines five key resources needed by small businesses: access to markets, technology, finance, people, and space. She suggests specific measures such as government procurement from small firms, financial incentives for technology adoption, addressing late payments, support for workforce upskilling, and utilizing empty spaces for business growth. Enterprise Nation has assisted 700,000 people in starting and growing their businesses.

Tags:

Small Business Economy Government Policy

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Center-Left

Political View

Lennox Kalifungwa is passionately driven by a desire to promote truth, beauty, and goodness in all things. Through the use of persuasive rhetoric and creative artistry, he endeavors to make important ideas, stories, and brands compelling. Having lived across a variety of cultures, he has naturally ...

Which States Are Most And Least Impacted By Retail Crime?

07 Dec 2023  |  www.zenger.news  |  English  |  Small Business

Organized retail crime is a growing concern for retailers across the U.S., with significant impacts on both large chains like Target and small businesses. The National Retail Federation reports an increase in the prioritization of retail crime, with 88% of retailers noting more aggressive shoplifters. Washington is the most affected state, while Wyoming is the least. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable, with 90% experiencing theft and many increasing prices or installing security measures in response. The article provides strategies for small business owners to mitigate theft, including access control, surveillance, data analytics, employee training, and store layout adjustments.

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Small Business Retail Crime Theft

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Rachel Kester is a journalist based in Chesterfield, Virginia. She covers topics ranging from the environment to culture and has written for publications such as the Richmond Time-Dispatch, Sierra Magazine, Virginia Living and Earth Island Journal.

Mojo Workin'

05 Sept 2024  |  www.styleweekly.com  |  English  |  Small Business

Nicole Norman, alongside her husband Andrew Crittendon, runs Mojo Glassworks, a stained glass studio in Richmond. Initially a hobby, Norman's passion for stained glass turned into a career after being laid off during the pandemic. The studio specializes in custom designs and offers classes to the community. Mojo Glassworks gained recognition after working on HBO's 'Trixie Motel' project. Norman aspires to create large-scale installations and continue expanding her business.

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Small Business Art Craftsmanship

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Farai Shawn Matiashe is an award-winning journalist based in Mutare, Zimbabwe who writes for various international media outlets including Aljazeera (Qatar), CNN International (UK) the Thomson Reuters Foundation (UK), Vice World News (UK), The Africa Report (France), Euronews (UK) and Quartz Africa ...

Zimbabwe’s surging Internet costs wreak havoc on small businesses

12 Jan 2024  |  www.thestar.com.my  |  English  |  Small Businesses

Zimbabwe's escalating internet costs, driven by significant price hikes from major providers like Econet Wireless Zimbabwe and NetOne, are severely impacting small businesses and individuals. The high costs, exacerbated by the country's inflation, have led to reduced access to essential services and online business opportunities. Digital rights advocates and organizations like MISA Zimbabwe are campaigning for more affordable internet access, highlighting the growing digital divide. Despite these efforts, the government and telecom regulators have yet to provide a viable solution, leaving many struggling to cope with the financial burden.

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Small Businesses Internet Costs Digital Divide

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Jeffrey Moyo is a journalist based in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Rural Entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe Thrive Against All Odds

01 Apr 2024  |  ipsnoticias.net  |  Spanish  |  Small Businesses

In Juru Growth Point, Zimbabwe, rural entrepreneurs like Proud Ndukulani and Tapera Saizi are thriving despite the country's economic challenges. Ndukulani manufactures vehicle bushings and earns between $300 and $400 monthly, while Saizi runs a successful carpentry business. Despite a 90% unemployment rate reported by the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions, these small business owners have found ways to support their families. Local authorities, however, criticize them for causing disorder by operating in commercial centers. The government, through the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, is working to expand rural industrialization.

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Small Businesses Rural Entrepreneurship Economic Challenges

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Akanda Muhammad Jahid is a journalist based in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Small businesses navigated difficult times in 2023

03 Jan 2024  |  www.thedailystar.net  |  English  |  Small Business Challenges

Small businesses in Bangladesh faced significant challenges in 2023, with sales plummeting and profits shrinking due to inflation and increased production costs. Entrepreneurs like Arifa Yasmin Mayuri and Maksuda Khatun reported a drastic drop in sales and difficulties in maintaining operations. The SME sector, which contributes to 25% of the GDP, requires special government assistance, improved banking facilities, and subsidies to survive the economic crisis, as suggested by experts from the Bangladesh Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Research and Policy Integration for Development.

Tags:

Small Business Challenges Economy Inflation

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I am a freelance journalist based in Tokyo, Japan. I contribute articles to a number of international media and companies, including Forbes Asia and Singularity Hub. 

My main areas of expertise are science, technology and finance. However, I have spent time working at both local newspapers in ...

5 Ways to Get Working Capital for Your Small Business

26 Feb 2025  |  AllBusiness.com  |  English  |  Small Business Financing

Small business owners have multiple options for obtaining working capital, including SBA loans, short-term online loans, invoice factoring, crowdfunding, and peer-to-peer loans. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, such as interest rates, approval requirements, and repayment terms. SBA loans offer long-term, low-interest financing but require strong credit and business history. Short-term online loans provide quick funding but at higher interest rates. Invoice factoring helps manage cash flow gaps, while crowdfunding and peer-to-peer loans are suitable for startups and small capital needs, respectively. Business owners should assess their needs and creditworthiness to choose the best option.

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Small Business Financing Working Capital

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Roger Russell is a Director / DOP / writer / journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

Congress considers how to fix the CTA

30 Apr 2024  |  Accounting Today  |  English  |  Small Business

The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), effective from January 1, 2024, has faced legal challenges and criticism for its impact on small businesses. Organizations like the American Institute of CPAs and the National Association of Enrolled Agents have opposed the act's filing requirements. Roger Harris of Padgett Business Services testified before the House Committee on Small Business, predicting widespread noncompliance due to the act's complexity and the burden on small businesses. He suggested that the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) collaborate with the IRS for better guidance. A bill to repeal the CTA was introduced, reflecting a shift in attitude towards the legislation.

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Small Business Corporate Transparency Act Legislation

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Serafina Silaitoga is a journalist based in Labasa, Fiji.

Business operators play national economy-building role

31 Dec 2023  |  The Fiji Times  |  English  |  Small Business

Small business operators play a crucial role in building the national economy, as emphasized by Commissioner Northern Uraia Rainima during a workshop in Labasa. He highlighted the potential of culture and creative industries and urged participants to register their businesses to succeed as cultural producers. Rainima noted that the change in administration would boost the local economy, particularly in Savusavu, which is set to adopt blue-economy principles. He encouraged participants to utilize the opportunities and assistance provided by the Government.

Tags:

Small Business Economy Creative Industries

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London-based freelance journalist specialising in personal finance and the retail market. Music is also an interest. Proficent in using online publishing tools (Keyword Planner, Infogram, Wordpress). A former online writer at Which? Money Online and Retail Gazette. Available for feature articles, ...

How do I build a website for my small business?

19 Jan 2024  |  smallbusiness.co.uk  |  English  |  Small Business

Building a website for a small business is crucial but can be costly if done by a professional developer. Using website builders like Wix, Squarespace, GoDaddy, Mettrr, Weebly, Mobirise, WordPress, Shopify, EKM, and BigCommerce can be cost-effective and user-friendly. Each platform offers different features, pricing, and user experiences. Domain names are essential and can vary in cost. Integrating payment methods like Stripe and PayPal can enhance trust and ease of transactions. The article provides a comprehensive guide on choosing the right website builder and domain name, considering factors like SEO, branding, and functionality.

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Small Business Website Development E-commerce

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Writer, radio producer, TV & radio reporter, photographer. 
Previously in Russia, Romania and Ukraine. 
Russian speaker, C1. 

Kit: iPhone, Rode lav mic, DSLR. 
No video edit capacity currently but can send rushes & do live hits. 

TG: @jenostrov

The Changing Landscape Of E-Tail: Rethinking E-Commerce Strategy For 2024

24 Apr 2024  |  Forbes  |  English  |  Small Business Strategy

The article discusses the evolving landscape of e-commerce and digital marketing strategies for 2024, emphasizing the challenges small-to-midsize e-commerce companies face due to increased competition and significant changes in Google's search algorithms. It highlights the importance of targeted campaigns, grassroots influencer relationships, and genuine content strategies for smaller businesses to compete effectively. The article also critiques Google's shift towards a shopping price comparison tool and the implications for small businesses, while offering strategic advice for leveraging unique selling propositions and building a loyal customer base.

Tags:

Small Business Strategy E-Commerce Digital Marketing

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Senanu Tord is a video journalist and a documentary filmmaker who reports on a wide range of issues across Africa. He is originally from Ghana and reports in English but speaks and understands basic French. He has worked in many English-speaking African countries and some francophone countries ...

Ghanaian Small Business Uses AI to Improve E-Commerce

01 Feb 2024  |  www.voaafrica.com  |  English  |  Small Business

Africa is ranked by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development as the region with the lowest e-commerce investment, primarily due to limited access in urban areas. An AI solution is being introduced to address this issue, with reporting from Accra.

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Small Business E-Commerce Artificial Intelligence

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