Start Small Think Big

Step into your power as the CEO of your own life! Join us for an inspiring networking event and panel discussion focused on personal development, leadership, and the mindset shifts needed to take control of your business and life. Our expert panelist, Erika Williams (Rogers) of Elevate Lyfe, will share actionable strategies to help you lead with confidence, make empowered decisions, and create a strong foundation for long-term success—both personally and professionally. Come and learn how to: ?? Master the Art of Delegation: Learn how to identify tasks that can be delegated and communicate effectively to build trust and empower your team. ? Navigate Stress and Overwhelm: Discover techniques to manage stress and prioritize tasks, creating a balanced and focused approach to your day. ? Integrate Holistic Productivity Habits: Explore mindfulness practices, wellness routines, and time-management tips to sustainably boost productivity. ? Engage with Experts and Peers: Network with like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and leave with actionable strategies to implement immediately. Erika Williams (Rogers) is a seasoned business strategist, consultant, and coach with over 30 years of experience in corporate leadership and entrepreneurship. As the founder and CEO of Elevate Lyfe, she helps small and mid-sized businesses strengthen their operations, scale strategically, and secure corporate contracts. With leadership roles at Procter & Gamble, Warner Bros, and Mattel, and clients like Metrolink and Southern California Edison, Erika equips entrepreneurs with the tools to grow, streamline operations, and succeed at a higher level. Register here: https://lnkd.in/eQYAxft8

The NYC Boss Up NYCHA Business Pitch Competition is back, offering NYCHA and Section 8 residents the chance to win a $20,000 grant to grow their business! Whether you're just starting out, building momentum, or already running a thriving company, this opportunity provides funding, mentorship, and resources to help you level up. To apply, you must be a NYCHA or Section 8 resident (listed on the lease and current on rent) and at least 18 years old by June 1, 2025. Applications are open now, and if you submit by April 1, you'll receive feedback and a chance to revise before the final deadline on April 30, 2025. Winners will be announced in June 2025. Don’t miss this chance to invest in your future! Apply now and join our info session on April 23 to get your questions answered. #NYCBossUp #SmallBiz #Entrepreneurship ?? https://lnkd.in/dZTGr64M

LAST CHANCE! ?? Next week: Financial Projections: Plan for Growth & Success | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 2025 @ 2PM ET/11AM PT Whether you're looking to refine your budgeting, optimize cash flow, or plan for expansion, this free session will provide practical insights and expert strategies to strengthen your financial management skills. So, come learn how to streamline your budgeting processes, optimize your cash flow, and attract investors and secure funding. Register for the event now here: https://lnkd.in/eyf2cKnJ

Small Business Optimism Declines but Remains Above Long-Term Average The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index fell by 2.1 points in February to 100.7, marking the fourth consecutive month above the 51-year average of 98. Despite this, uncertainty is increasing, with the Uncertainty Index rising four points to its second-highest recorded level. Inflation and labor quality remain the most pressing challenges for small business owners. The percentage of owners expecting better business conditions in the next six months declined, and those viewing this as a good time to expand saw the largest monthly drop since April 2020. Reports of price increases also surged, with a net 32% of owners raising average selling prices—the largest increase since April 2021. “Uncertainty is high and rising on Main Street, and for many reasons,” said NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg. “Those small business owners expecting better business conditions in the next six months dropped, and the percent viewing the current period as a good time to expand fell, but remains well above where it was in the fall.” Read the full report for more insights on the current state of small business optimism. #SmallBusiness #EconomicTrends #Entrepreneurship #NFIB https://lnkd.in/dd3FZA-X

?? Arely's Flowers: Bringing Nature and Emotion Together ?? Since 2015, Arely's Flowers has proudly served the San Pablo and Richmond, California communities with high-quality fresh flowers and exceptional customer service. As a family-owned business, their mission is to be the trusted source for all floral needs—transforming emotions into elegantly crafted arrangements. With a vision to expand into new areas, Arely's Flowers remains committed to delivering beautiful products that connect people to nature's beauty. Visit one of their locations or explore their offerings online to experience the artistry and dedication that sets them apart.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 State of American Business report reveals a promising outlook for the economy, with many indicators showing stability or growth. This year’s focus is on local economies, spotlighting Dallas-Fort Worth and four other metro areas where business is booming. In Dallas alone, small businesses make up nearly 99.6% of all firms, employing over 1.3 million people. However, challenges persist, like the 8.1 million unfilled jobs across the country, a tight labor market, and a drop in IPOs due to high interest rates and regulatory hurdles. The report suggests that easing immigration policies, investing in workforce development, and regulatory reforms could help sustain growth. Consumer spending remains strong despite inflation, and the easing of supply chain pressures has also been a positive sign. The report emphasizes that smart policies are crucial to maintaining momentum and ensuring that economic gains reach local communities. As we move forward, all eyes are on how policymakers will address these challenges to fuel even stronger growth. Read more about it here: https://lnkd.in/eQkZfRs7

In February, the smallest U.S. businesses (those with 1-9 workers) shed around 125,000 jobs, dropping total employment to 12.5 million—a nearly 1% decline. The hardest-hit sector? Leisure and hospitality, which lost about 21,000 jobs (1.3% decline). Not only are jobs slipping, but average revenue fell nearly $51,000 (-0.79%) for these businesses, suggesting that consumer spending might be tightening up. With new import taxes on the horizon, the outlook could get even murkier. ??? As Ufuk Akcigit from the University of Chicago put it, small firms often signal where the economy is headed—so this could be a warning sign. ?? https://reut.rs/41TzPBv

?? UPCOMING SMALL BIZ OPPORTUNITIES! March is here, and we have a solid line-up of free small biz workshops for you this month. Come learn how your small business can safely and effectively use artificial intelligence, identify?strategies to boost profits, and more. Find all events on our website at https://lnkd.in/enmEcq6z! If you enjoy our workshops and are interested in what else we have to offer, apply (for free!) to join the #AllForSmall community for high-quality financial and legal services from attorneys & finance professionals from top firms across the country. ?? WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2025 @ 12PM ET/ 9AM PT | Intro to Bookkeeping for Childcare Businesses ?? WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2025 @ 3PM ET/ 12PM PT | How Small Businesses Can Use AI Safety and Effectively ?? WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 2025 @ Financial Projections: Plan for Growth & Success ?? THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 2025 @ 4PM ET/ 1PM PT @ Profit-Boosting Pricing Strategies for Small Businesses ?? WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26, 2025 @ Business Contract Essentials for Small Business Owners

What's a better way to start the week than with a small biz meme Monday. ??

Save the date! You won't want to miss this.