Innovation doesn’t happen by accident. It begins with a mindset—one rooted in curiosity. For local...
Strategy & Operations
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...
Profit vs. Cash Flow
If your business is showing a healthy profit, but your bank account doesn’t reflect it, you’re not...
Why Do I Need a CFO?
Running a business isn’t always straightforward. Even when you’ve got your books in order and...
Marketing & Growth
4 Things to Do During Small Business Month to Grow Your Company
From the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. May is Small Business Month, a time to support and celebrate...
When Plans Change: A Journey Through Uncertainty to Growth
In this article, we’ll hear from Tamisha Williams, founder of Tamisha Williams Consulting, who...
Online Sales: Simple, Proven Ways to Convert More Customers
In our December Holiday Sales survey, we found that only 48% of retailers are currently selling...
Real Stories
Growth and Innovation
Background Gelati Celesti, a beloved local ice cream business with ten locations throughout...
Phoning an Expert
Background Erma Jean, a local retail clothing boutique faced a significant challenge when the...
Problem Solving at Roundtables
Summary Bremo Pharmacy's experience with InUnison’s Roundtable benefit highlights the impact of...
Research & Data
How Local Businesses Can Leverage Third-Party Research to Drive Growth
Research conducted by independent organizations, industry groups, or government agencies can...
Survey Report: Business-Government Relations in the Richmond Region
Our recent survey provides a snapshot of the challenges and opportunities businesses encounter...
State of Local 2024: Event Recording
Welcome to the recorded inaugural State of Local event....
The Latest
How Are Tariffs Affecting Richmond’s Local Businesses?
As trade policy headlines once again make national news, we checked in with local businesses to understand how tariffs are impacting operations, pricing, and financial outlooks across Greater Richmond. The results? A mixed bag—but one with clear signs of strain for...
Why Do I Need a CFO?
Part of the series: Understanding Financial Success with Andrew Farrell, Farrell Financial.
State of Local Event Recap 2025
How to Build a Simple Standard Operating Procedure Library (Without Getting Overwhelmed)
Finally get your business out of your head and into systems—starting today.
Smart Growth Starts with a Strong Why: The Power of Setting a Clear Target
Below, we’ll walk through why defining your business vision – inclusive of your exit plan – is crucial, how to align potential opportunities with your targets, and what it means for your team, your family, and long-term success.
Census Retail Sales Data Shows Consumers Are ‘Apprehensive’ Despite ‘Healthy’ Economic Fundamentals
“Households are apprehensive and carefully navigating lingering inflation and turmoil related to changing economic policies.” – Jack Kleinhenz, NRF Chief Economist
When Plans Change: A Journey Through Uncertainty to Growth
No matter how well you plan, things don’t always go as expected. Whether it’s a new business offering that doesn’t gain traction, shifting personal circumstances, or unexpected challenges in execution, entrepreneurs must adapt quickly to keep moving forward. The ability to pivot isn’t just about survival—it’s about resilience, growth, and learning from the unexpected.
Online Sales: Simple, Proven Ways to Convert More Customers
In our December Holiday Sales survey, we found that only 48% of retailers are currently selling products online. This presents a huge opportunity for local businesses to differentiate themselves and increase sales by tapping into the online market. If you’re not yet selling online, now is the perfect time to consider how you can reach more customers and grow your business.
Success Starts Here: Strategic Planning Made Easy and Effective
You might be thinking, “I’m just trying to make it through the week; how can I possibly think about the next five years?” But what if we told you that investing in strategic planning isn’t just about long-term vision; it’s about making your day-to-day decisions easier, more confident, and more effective?
When Plans Change: How Local Businesses Adapt and Succeed
Whether it’s an unexpected shift in demand, a supply chain disruption, or even a sudden change in the market, small businesses must pivot quickly to stay afloat. The resilience of local businesses shines through in these moments—they adjust, adapt, and move forward, often with a new perspective.