Artificial Intelligence. Machine learning. Neural networks. These terms can make AI feel like...
Strategy & Operations
How Local Businesses Are Using AI in Real, Everyday Ways
We spoke to three Richmond-based business leaders about how they’re currently using AI in their...
AI-Powered Tools for Beginners and Experts
AI isn’t just for big companies with tech budgets—it’s a practical, everyday tool for small and...
How AI Actually Works (and Why That Matters for Your Business)
Artificial Intelligence. Machine learning. Neural networks. These terms can make AI feel like...
Marketing & Growth
Teaming Up For Growth (ChatGPT Worksheet)
In a region like Greater Richmond, collaboration isn’t just a buzzword—it’s how we grow stronger...
The 3 Biggest Innovation Challenges Facing Local Independent Businesses (and What to Do About Them)
Let’s Be Honest About Innovation We all want to innovate. We want to evolve, grow, and get ahead...
Innovation Doesn’t Mean Reinventing the Wheel: 3 Quick Ways to Spot Ideas Already Working Around You
Too often, innovation feels like a big, intimidating word reserved for startups or tech companies....
Real Stories
Business to Business Relationship Building
Background Think, a prominent marketing and branding firm is known for its innovative approach to...
Mentorship for Accelerated Growth
Background PowerUp Productions, a dynamic video production company specializes in creating...
Solopreneur Who Has Community
"Being a solopreneur can sometimes feel isolating, but joining InUnison has connected me to a...
Research & Data
How Are Tariffs Affecting Richmond’s Local Businesses?
As trade policy headlines once again make national news, we checked in with local businesses to...
State of Local Event Recap 2025
Census Retail Sales Data Shows Consumers Are ‘Apprehensive’ Despite ‘Healthy’ Economic Fundamentals
Staying on top of retail trends is crucial for independent businesses navigating economic shifts....
The Latest
How Local Businesses Are Using AI in Real, Everyday Ways
AI isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a powerful tool that many local businesses in Richmond are already using to save time, improve communication, and support decision-making. Whether you’re just starting to explore it or looking for more practical ways to use AI, hearing from other local business owners can spark new ideas.
AI-Powered Tools for Beginners and Experts
We’ve broken down a few of the most accessible, affordable AI-powered tools that Richmond businesses can use.
How AI Actually Works (and Why That Matters for Your Business)
Artificial Intelligence. Machine learning. Neural networks. These terms can make AI feel like something out of a sci-fi movie. But here’s the truth: AI is already powering tools that small and independent businesses in Richmond are using every day—for things like...
Teaming Up For Growth (ChatGPT Worksheet)
Use ChatGPT to help dream up creative, local partnerships that grow your reach, deepen relationships, and serve the community.
Why Local Businesses Can Lead Innovation in Their Communities
Innovation isn’t just the domain of big corporations or tech startups — local independent businesses are uniquely positioned to lead innovation in their communities. With deep customer relationships, nimble operations, and a strong sense of place, local businesses can quickly adapt and create meaningful change.
Why Curiosity is Your Most Underrated Innovation Tool (and How to Cultivate It)
Innovation doesn’t happen by accident. It begins with a mindset—one rooted in curiosity. For local independent businesses, curiosity can be the secret ingredient that fuels fresh ideas, creative solutions, and new ways to engage customers. Yet it’s often overlooked or...
Announcing this Year’s Local Business Case Studies
Innovation doesn’t have to mean launching a new app or overhauling your business. Sometimes, it’s about finding a better way to do what you already do. Whether you’re running a solo service business, managing a boutique shop, or leading a small team at a restaurant or studio—innovation starts with asking: What could work better for me and my customers?
Rethinking Your Business Model for Growth and Agility
In today’s fast-changing market, sticking rigidly to an old business model can leave you behind. Local independent businesses that rethink and adapt their business models gain the agility to meet customer needs, find new revenue streams, and compete more effectively.
The 3 Biggest Innovation Challenges Facing Local Independent Businesses (and What to Do About Them)
Let’s Be Honest About Innovation We all want to innovate. We want to evolve, grow, and get ahead of the curve. But running a local business means juggling a lot—and “innovation” often feels out of reach. Here are the 3 most common roadblocks we hear from local...
Innovation Doesn’t Mean Reinventing the Wheel: 3 Quick Ways to Spot Ideas Already Working Around You
Too often, innovation feels like a big, intimidating word reserved for startups or tech companies. But for local independent businesses, innovation doesn’t have to mean launching a new product or building an app — it can simply mean finding new ways to solve problems,...