Getting Started

Cloud Engineers are using artificial intelligence (AI) more than any other profession in 2025, according to a new study by ZapCap. The report evaluated AI engagement across industries by analyzing Google search volume, professional AI usage rates, and the number of AI-focused courses available on one educational platform. These factors were combined into a weighted AI usage score, with Cloud Engineers earning a perfect 100. The field recorded 32 million monthly Google searches for AI-related tools, the highest among all professions examined. In addition, 70% of Cloud Engineers are actively using AI tools, supported by access to 27 specialized courses. ZapCap’s study sugg…

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced the launch of a new three-year Rural Jump-Start (RJS) Operating Grant program aimed at stimulating economic development and job creation in economically distressed rural counties. The initiative, approved by the Colorado Economic Development Commission (EDC), will distribute up to $630,000 in grants to support approximately 36 businesses and at least 120 new jobs across the state. “Colorado is committed to supporting the small businesses that drive our economy and these grants will support businesses in our rural communities around the state. Colorado is one of the best places to start …

Key Takeaways Understanding Bad Behavior: Recognize that bad behavior, including gossip, negativity, and disrespect, disrupts team dynamics and productivity, leading to a toxic work environment. Identifying Common Types: Familiarize yourself with common misconduct such as poor communication, failure to collaborate, and not meeting deadlines to proactively address these issues. Impacts on the Organization: Acknowledge the negative effects of bad behavior on employee morale, work-life balance, interpersonal conflicts, employee retention, brand reputation, and overall operational efficiency. Effective Management Strategies: Implement strategies such as documenting beha…

Comcast announced Thursday that 100 small businesses in Grand Rapids, Muskegon, and surrounding communities will receive comprehensive grant packages through the Comcast RISE program. The initiative is part of a broader $3 million national effort aimed at supporting 500 small businesses across five U.S. regions. The grant packages will include a $5,000 monetary grant, a full technology makeover, professionally produced marketing assets, media exposure, access to educational resources, and business coaching sessions. Applications will open May 1 and close May 31, with interested businesses directed to apply at www.ComcastRISE.com. “Small business owners in Grand Rapids a…

When starting a restaurant or renovating your kitchen, a commercial broiler is essential in today’s modern culinary environment. These powerful appliances significantly influence the flavor and presentation of your signature dishes. Their main purpose is to cook food at high temperatures from above, creating a delicious sear or crust. Due to its importance, it is crucial to comprehend the benefits of a high-quality broiler. Definition and primary function Commercial broilers, commonly found in restaurants, operate differently than your typical home oven broiler. While both aim to apply high heat, the commercial version does so more efficiently and over larger food volume…

Excess humidity in work settings can lead to a variety of issues, such as mold growth, musty odors, and damage to equipment and products. To combat these problems, businesses often turn to commercial dehumidifiers, which are designed to remove moisture from the air and maintain optimal humidity levels. With a wide range of options available on the market, selecting the right commercial dehumidifier can be a daunting task. Importance of humidity control in businesses Humidity control is essential in a business environment as it directly affects employee health and safety, as well as the lifespan of equipment and products. High moisture levels in the air can foster the gro…

A commercial steam table is an indispensable piece of equipment in the food service industry. Used primarily in buffet-style dining settings and commercial kitchens, these tables use steam or heated water to keep cooked food at the optimal serving temperature. Commercial Steam Tables Commercial steam tables, or buffet steam tables, are designed to keep prepared food at safe serving temperatures for extended periods. Using either electric heat or gas, they heat water to produce steam surrounding the food pans, keeping food warm without further cooking. They are most commonly found in establishments that need to maintain food temperature over a period, such as in buffet li…

Email marketing is an important part of digital communication. If you don’t feel that email marketing has been effective for you, you may be making common email marketing mistakes. The Impact of Email Marketing Mistakes Poor engagement: Mistakes can lead to reduced open rates, click-through rates, and overall engagement with your emails. Damaged brand reputation: Email marketing mistakes can negatively impact your brand’s image, causing recipients to perceive your emails as unprofessional or spammy. Reduced conversions: Mistakes may result in lower conversion rates, affecting your ability to turn leads into customers. Legal issues: Non-compliance with email marketing re…

Invoice payment terms are essential for several reasons. They impact everything from the strength of business relationships to cash management. Specific payment terms are an integral part of financial management. They even tell businesses when they can expect to have money coming in so they can budget and plan their finances. Read this guide for all the details that small businesses may need to know. Essential Invoice Payment Terms Several critical components are involved, including the invoice and payment due dates. Payment terms such as Net 60 or Net 30 define the time frame where the payment is expected. Some invoices might say “owing on receipt.” Common Invoice…

The rise of phishing attacks poses serious security challenges to small business owners. As phishing attacks exploit human psychology, learning about various phishing examples is the most effective way to protect businesses from phishing scams. This article will explore common examples of phishing attacks to help you protect your data and IT infrastructure. What Is Phishing? Phishing is a form of social engineering attack where hackers attempt to deceive users into revealing sensitive information, such as login credentials, or installing harmful software on their devices. In standard phishing attacks, cybercriminals reach out to users while impersonating reputable organ…

Digital marketing relies in part on Search Engine Optimization (SEO) to foster the success of a website. Effective strategies drive organic traffic, boosting both sales and conversions. Mistakes like not optimizing for essential keywords can lead to a drop in profits and sales. Remember, potential customers looking for online goods and services use keywords and phrases to start the process. The Impact of SEO Mistakes Understanding SEO is crucial for online success. For businesses considering how to start an SEO company, knowing these common mistakes can provide a solid foundation for offering effective SEO services. Other SEO errors can cause problems for a website’s…

Community Bank & Trust has launched a Refund Anticipation Loan for the Sick Leave and Family Leave (SLFL) tax credit, also known as the Self-Employed Tax Credit (SETC), providing immediate financial relief to self-employed individuals. The loan offers an advance on tax refunds, allowing gig workers, independent contractors, and sole proprietors to access their funds without waiting for IRS processing. The SLFL program was established under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) to support self-employed individuals affected by COVID-19. Community Bank & Trust’s Refund Anticipation Loan eliminates long IRS wait times, providing instant access to funds …

CommunityRewards, powered by Points4Purpose, Inc., has announced the launch of a new Business Grant and Mentorship Program aimed at supporting women-owned businesses in the Miami area. Applications are now open through May 23, 2025, with the initiative set to award 12 local business owners a package valued at a total of $20,000. The program offers recipients AI-powered loyalty rewards software solutions along with mentorship opportunities. “Each grant recipient will receive approximately $1,600 in AI-powered loyalty rewards software solutions and resources that can enhance customer loyalty and grow their customer base,” said James Trocme, Chief Operating Officer at Point…

A confirmation email is useful in various situations. Whether it’s for confirming a restaurant reservation, online or offline events, or other meetings, a confirmation email plays a significant role in the communication strategy. To help you write a thorough confirmation email that includes all the necessary information, you can utilize a confirmation email template. What Is a Confirmation Email? Confirmation emails are used to communicate important information to customers after specific events. There are many types of confirmation emails, including: Restaurant reservation confirmation Order confirmation Webinar confirmation email, including registration confirmation …

Key Takeaways Recognize Holiday Stress: Understanding the sources of holiday stress—such as family gatherings, gift shopping, busy schedules, and employee management—can help you effectively navigate the challenges of the season. Prioritize Self-Care: Implement self-care strategies, including mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and a healthy lifestyle, to reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being during the hectic holiday period. Set Realistic Expectations: Focus on key priorities and delegate tasks to avoid overwhelm, ensuring that you and your team can remain productive amidst holiday demands. Manage Time Effectively: Utilize digital planners and task manageme…

Constant Contact has released its latest Small Business Now report, revealing that new small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are leveraging social media and technology to drive growth and navigate economic challenges. The study surveyed 1,600 SMBs across the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada that have been in operation for five years or less. The report finds that social media is the dominant marketing tool for early-stage entrepreneurs. According to the study, 63% of new SMBs rely on social media as their primary marketing channel, and 73% of respondents said that both paid and unpaid social media posts are their biggest revenue drivers. Despite t…

Starting your own construction business? You’ll need a variety of construction tools to properly establish your operations. Fortunately, unlike in ancient times, obtaining these tools is no longer a difficult task when launching a construction project. Considerations When Choosing Tools for Construction As a small business owner, you have to consider several factors before you start collecting your construction tools. Let’s take a look at some of the key considerations to keep in mind. Rent or buy: Every business is different, and every business owner has a different budget to consider. That’s why, in many cases, it may make sense to rent your materials rather than mak…

A conveyor toaster is a highly productive equipment that significantly optimizes your breakfast routine or food service operations. These toasters are designed to offer efficiency, speed, and consistency, making them a favorite in commercial kitchens as well as large households. With their unique operation, they allow for continuous toasting, significantly improving productivity. They’re particularly favored for their ability to handle large quantities of bread, bagels, or other bakery items in a short time. Whether catering to a bustling restaurant crowd or serving a large family, a conveyor toaster can be a game-changer. What is a Conveyor Toaster? A conveyor toaster …

Key Takeaways Significance of a Strong Name: A well-chosen construction business name establishes brand identity and conveys trust, crucial for attracting clients in a competitive market.Prioritize Simplicity and Clarity: Names should be easy to pronounce and spell, enhancing memorability and reducing miscommunication with potential customers.Ensure Relevance: The business name should reflect the services offered, incorporating industry-specific terms to improve clarity and aid in search engine optimization (SEO).Engage in Market Research: Testing name ideas with potential customers gathers valuable feedback, ensuring the name resonates with the target audience and enha…

Key Takeaways Importance of a Strong Name: A well-chosen craft business name creates a lasting first impression, builds trust, and reflects the essence of your products.Key Elements: Focus on simplicity, relevance, creativity, emotional connection, and marketability to craft a memorable business name.Categories for Inspiration: Consider names based on craft types or those that evoke emotions to attract your target audience effectively.Audience Consideration: Tailor your business name to reflect your offerings and resonate with potential customers for better engagement.Utilize Tools and Feedback: Leverage online name generators and seek feedback from peers and customers …

Key Takeaways Engage Customers with Events: Hosting events, such as seasonal promotions and holiday-themed activities, creates memorable experiences that attract foot traffic and foster customer loyalty. Leverage Local Collaborations: Partnering with local businesses for joint events can amplify visibility, enhance community ties, and drive traffic to your store through shared audiences. Support Community Causes: Organizing charity events around local nonprofits can enhance your store’s reputation while demonstrating commitment to community welfare, helping customers connect with your brand on a deeper level. Offer Educational Experiences: Workshops and demonstratio…

Key Takeaways Community Engagement Matters: Hosting events and participating in local activities strengthen relationships and build brand loyalty within your community.Leverage Social Media: Utilize platforms like Facebook and Instagram to showcase local involvement, engage with customers, and promote your business effectively.Optimize for Local SEO: Ensure your website and business listings are optimized for local searches to attract nearby customers actively looking for your services.Collaborate with Local Businesses: Form partnerships for joint promotions to expand your reach and enhance visibility within the local market.Value Customer Feedback: Regularly gather and…

The Detroit Pistons and Comerica Bank have announced the launch of SHOP313 Pop-Up Shops presented by Comerica, a program designed to showcase and support 28 Michigan-based small businesses throughout the 2024-25 NBA season. Beginning January 31, participating businesses will receive brand exposure through in-arena promotions at Little Caesars Arena, as well as digital marketing support via the Pistons’ website and social media channels. SHOP313 Pop-Up Shops is an extension of both organizations’ commitment to bolstering Metro Detroit’s small business community. This marks the second consecutive year Comerica and the Pistons have partnered to provide business owners with …

Discord has announced the expansion of its rewarded advertising format, Video Quests, to mobile devices, marking the company’s first foray into mobile advertising. The pilot for Video Quests on Mobile is expected to launch in June 2025 and aims to connect advertisers with Discord’s highly active, cross-platform user base. According to the company, this expansion will allow advertisers to showcase trailers, make impactful announcements, and promote premium content to a growing mobile audience while retaining Discord’s user-first, opt-in approach. “Expanding our advertising platform to mobile is an obvious, natural evolution in our strategy. Our mission is to create the m…

Key Takeaways Low Startup Costs: Shaved ice franchises typically require low initial investments compared to other food franchises, making them accessible for aspiring entrepreneurs. Seasonal Business Model: These franchises thrive during warm months, allowing owners to maximize revenue during peak seasons while maintaining lower costs in off-seasons. Exclusive Territory Rights: Franchise agreements often provide exclusive territories, minimizing competition and enhancing profit potential within designated areas. Proven Franchise Support: Franchisees receive comprehensive training, an operations manual, and ongoing marketing assistance to ensure smooth operations an…