Latest Small business News
Small business disaster loan program is out of money until Congress approves new funds
NEW YORK (AP) — The Small Business Administration has run out of money for the disaster assistance loans it offers small businesses, homeowners and renters, delaying much needed relief for people applying for aid in the wake of the destruction caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. ...
Ahead of the presidential election, small biz owners are growing more uncertain about the economy
NEW YORK (AP) — Small business owners are growing more uncertain about the economy ahead of the presidential election and are reining in spending, according to a new survey. The National Federation of Independent Business optimism index edged up 0.3 points in September to 91.5. But...
Should California's minimum wage be $18? Voters will soon decide
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Voters will decide in November whether California should raise its hourly minimum wage to $18 by 2026 and pay workers what would be the highest statewide minimum wage in the country. That would be on par with Hawaii, where workers are on track to get paid at...
Small business disaster loan program said to be in danger of running out of funds by end of month
NEW YORK (AP) — The Small Business Administration could run out of money to fund disaster loans in the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastation. As is typical after a disaster, the government is offering aid to small businesses that were in Helene's path. The SBA is offering disaster...
Marketing plans are key for small businesses ahead of a tough holiday shopping season
NEW YORK (AP) — The holidays are the busiest time of year for many small retailers and other businesses. But the holidays this year could be particularly challenging. Although inflation has retreated, small businesses are still dealing with high costs and consumers have been...
Almost all small businesses are using a software tool that is enabled by AI
NEW YORK (AP) — As the use of artificial intelligence is expands, more small firms say they're harnessing AI to help their businesses. In a survey by The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Teneo, nearly every small business — 98% — said they are utilizing a tool that is enabled by...
Labor costs remain high for small businesses, but a report shows wage growth is slowing for some
NEW YORK (AP) — Employee wages are one of the biggest costs for small businesses. A new survey found some owners may be seeing a bit of relief when it comes to wages. But while some say wage growth has stabilized or slowed, others note they haven't seen any moderation in their...
COVID-19 government disaster loans saved businesses, but saddled survivors with debt
NEW YORK (AP) — In 2020 and 2021, COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans were a lifeline for small businesses. But now some small businesses are having trouble paying them off. And a Small Business Credit Survey report from the 12 Federal Reserve banks shows that small businesses...
Fake online reviews and testimonials are a headache for small businesses. They hope the FTC can help
NEW YORK (AP) — Online reviews and testimonials are a key way that small businesses can attract new customers and boost sales of products. But fake reviews and testimonials have been a persistent problem for small businesses, many of whom rely on recommendations for business. Fake...
High rents are forcing small businesses into tough choices like raising prices or changing location
NEW YORK (AP) — While many costs have come down for small business, rents remain high and in some cases are still rising, forcing many owners into some uncomfortable decisions. “Every time the rent goes up, we have to raise prices, to keep up with the cost,” said Adelita...
