Running a successful business requires more than just hard work and intuition—it demands data-driven decision-making. But while internal data like sales numbers and customer feedback are valuable, they only tell part of the story. To truly understand your market, identify growth opportunities, and make informed strategic decisions, you need to look beyond your own business. That’s where third-party research comes in.
Learning Lab
The Power of Community for Locally Owned Businesses
For locally owned businesses, the sense of community isn’t just a feel-good concept—it’s a strategic advantage that can fuel growth, resilience, and success.
Quick Guide: Building a Productivity Routine for Local Business Owners in Richmond, VA
As a local business owner in Richmond, VA, staying productive is key to keeping your business running smoothly and growing. With so many responsibilities—whether it’s managing employees, taking care of customers, or handling day-to-day operations—staying organized and...
Innovative Tips for Streamlining Operations
Running a successful business requires staying ahead of the curve. In 2025, innovation is the key to streamlining operations, saving time, and cutting costs. Richmond, VA, is home to a dynamic community of local business owners, and by adopting modern strategies, you...
New Year, New Goals: How to Set Business Resolutions That Stick
The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect on your business and plan for the future. Setting resolutions can help you grow your business, improve your processes, and reach new heights.
How Small Businesses Can Use Holiday Sales Data to Plan for the New Year
The holiday season is busy for small businesses, but it’s also a great time to learn what worked well and what didn’t.
Survey Report: Business-Government Relations in the Richmond Region
Our recent survey provides a snapshot of the challenges and opportunities businesses encounter when working with local jurisdictions across the Richmond region, including insights specific to the City of Richmond’s new leadership.
Halted – Corporate Transparency Act Guide
On Tuesday, a federal judge in Texas halted the implementation of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA)’s beneficial ownership reporting requirements.
Holiday Shipping & In-Store Pickup Tips for Local Businesses (2024)
The holiday season is a busy time for local businesses. To make sure your customers get their orders on time, it’s important to know the shipping deadlines and extra fees from the major carriers. It’s also key to make the in-store pickup process easy and fast. Here’s how to prepare for both shipping and in-store pickup during the holidays.
How to Build an Impactful Corporate Community Engagement Strategy
For many organizations, supporting the communities where they live, and work isn’t just a priority; it’s a strategic focus. Giving back these days involves more than just stroking a check. In today’s socially conscious business landscape, highly visible brands often find themselves fielding a steady flow of support and donation requests from community organizations.