Final IRS Deadline Nears for ERTC Program, Millions in Refunds Remain Unclaimed

The final opportunity for small and medium-sized businesses to claim the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) is fast approaching, with the deadline set for April 15, 2025. According to the Economic Recovery Center, more than half of eligible businesses have yet to file for the COVID-era tax refund, leaving potentially billions of dollars unclaimed.

The ERTC was introduced at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic by the Trump administration to provide financial relief to businesses impacted by the crisis. Over the following years, the program underwent numerous modifications under the Biden administration, leading to confusion among the nation’s estimated 33 million small and medium-sized businesses.

According to the Economic Recovery Center, the ERTC differs significantly from other pandemic relief efforts such as the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and COVID-EIDL loans. While the PPP and EIDL initiatives were loan-based programs that required minimal vetting, the ERTC is a refund based on previously filed payroll taxes.

The organization emphasized that the ERTC is not a loan but a temporary tax law adjustment that entitles eligible businesses to a refund of overpaid taxes. Businesses that meet the qualifications may be eligible for substantial refunds, in some cases up to $20,000 per employee.

“There are no costs to determine if you qualify,” says Chase Henderson, President of Economic Recovery Center. Henderson added, “The qualifications are complex and have consistently changed since its launch. Regardless, we believe all U.S.-based businesses should, at a minimum, obtain a no-cost qualification analysis. After all, we are talking about a refund of their taxes, not pulling in tax dollars from others; it is literally their money that was overpaid.”

Eligibility for the program is not limited to currently operating businesses. Even companies that have since shut down may qualify if they were operational in 2020 or 2021. Two primary criteria determine eligibility:

1. A decline in revenue in 2020 or 2021 compared to 2019.
2. Operational disruptions due to COVID-19, such as implementing social distancing measures or capacity restrictions.

The Economic Recovery Center warns that once the April 15 deadline passes, any unclaimed ERTC funds will be redirected to other federal programs. They are urging all business owners to seek a qualification review before the program closes permanently.

The ERTC remains one of the final avenues for pandemic-era tax relief available to American businesses. With only weeks left to apply, the Economic Recovery Center is encouraging immediate action to avoid missing out on what it describes as rightful tax refunds owed to businesses across the country.

This article, "Final IRS Deadline Nears for ERTC Program, Millions in Refunds Remain Unclaimed" was first published on Small Business Trends

GoDaddy Survey Reveals Misspelled Domain Names Turn Consumers Away

A new survey released by GoDaddy reveals that domain names play a critical role in shaping consumer trust and online shopping behavior. The GoDaddy Consumer Pulse survey, conducted in March with 1,500 U.S. consumers, found that 80% of respondents have avoided visiting or purchasing from a website because it had an oddly spelled domain name.

This reaction was most prevalent among younger consumers. According to the findings, 85% of Gen Z and 82% of Millennials reported skipping a business due to its domain’s spelling, while 76% of Gen X and Boomers said the same.

The survey was released in March in recognition of the domain name’s 40th anniversary and explored what consumers consider red and green flags when it comes to online business names. One key insight: spelling and length matter.

“Businesses that don’t take time to choose the right domain name inadvertently put themselves three steps behind,” said Trip Briscoe, a domain name expert at GoDaddy. “It’s worth investing in a quality domain that is spelled correctly and exactly matches your business’s name. It’s the difference between a potential customer finding you effortlessly or getting lost in the vastness of the internet.”

What Makes a Domain Memorable

Consumers cited specific traits that made domain names more appealing. Topping the list were full words spelled correctly (43%), short domains with two words or less (40%), and domains that are easy to pronounce (38%). Additionally, 23% of consumers said they found unique domain extensions like .AI or .shop memorable, while 19% were drawn to humorous domains that rhyme or use puns.

In contrast, several features were identified as red flags. These included misspelled words (56%), domain names that don’t match a business’s name (55%), and domains that contain hyphens or numbers (20%). Another 20% of respondents said they distrusted free domains associated with platforms like Google Sites or Wix.

Typing Still Matters

Despite the prevalence of clicks and swipes in modern browsing, many consumers still manually type domain names into their browsers. Half of those surveyed said they regularly type in a business’s domain name when shopping online, while 27% do so only if they remember the name. The remaining 23% said they rely on search engines, bookmarks, emails, or social media links to navigate to a business website.

Generational trends were also highlighted. Gen Z and Millennials were more likely to type in domain names directly and less likely to depend on alternative browsing methods. Only 16% of Gen Z and 18% of Millennials said they don’t type in domain names, compared to 28% of Gen X and Boomers.

Why Domain Names Matter for Business

GoDaddy’s findings suggest that businesses, particularly new or growing ones, need to give careful consideration to their domain names. According to the survey, 74% of consumers are more comfortable when a domain name matches the brand name exactly.

Additionally, younger consumers were more likely to report halting their online shopping due to a poorly chosen domain. Thirty-nine percent of Gen Z and 35% of Millennials admitted they have stopped shopping at a company online because of the website’s domain name, compared to just 15% of Gen X and Boomers.

Unique and funny domains also appealed more to younger shoppers. Thirty-four percent of Gen Z and 30% of Millennials said they found unique extensions memorable, while 25% of Gen Z and 24% of Millennials found rhyming or punny domains especially noteworthy. Among Gen X and Boomers, only 17% and 15%, respectively, reported the same.

GoDaddy advises that businesses prioritize domain availability when naming a company, whether launching a new venture or expanding online. As the survey shows, a well-chosen domain name can make or break a customer’s decision to engage.

Image: Envato

This article, "GoDaddy Survey Reveals Misspelled Domain Names Turn Consumers Away" was first published on Small Business Trends

ASUS Launches Compact and Powerful NUC 15 Pro+ Mini PC

ASUS has officially introduced the NUC 15 Pro+, a high-performance mini PC designed to deliver advanced computing capabilities in a sleek, compact form factor. Announced on March 19, 2025, the NUC 15 Pro+ integrates the latest Intel Core Ultra processors and offers up to 99 TOPS for AI-enhanced power, alongside support for quad 4K displays, cutting-edge connectivity, and a durable, upgrade-friendly chassis.

Performance Boost with AI-Enhanced Power

The NUC 15 Pro+ features up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor (Series 2) paired with Intel Arc Graphics, delivering an 18% performance increase over previous-generation NUC models. With up to 99 TOPS of AI performance, the device is engineered to handle intensive workloads, making it suitable for professionals, creators, and multitaskers seeking both speed and energy efficiency.

Quiet Operation with Advanced Cooling

Designed for whisper-quiet computing, the NUC 15 Pro+ incorporates a new thermal design optimized for improved airflow. ASUS reports that the advanced silent-cooling system reduces noise by 1.2 times compared to earlier models, maintaining peak performance even under heavy processing loads.

Next-Generation Connectivity

Equipped with Intel WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, the NUC 15 Pro+ offers high-speed wireless connections. WiFi 7 supports data rates up to 46Gbps and can simultaneously handle up to 16 streaming devices. The device also includes proximity sensing to detect user presence, intelligently locking or waking the system to conserve energy. Bluetooth 5.4 offers data speeds up to 2Mbps and connectivity over distances up to 240 meters.

Immersive Visual Experience

The mini PC supports up to four 4K displays via two HDMI 2.1 ports and two Thunderbolt 4 ports, delivering sharp, vivid visuals ideal for both multitasking and entertainment. A new sync-off feature helps reduce energy consumption by powering down connected monitors when the system is idle.

Tool-Free Upgradability

ASUS designed the NUC 15 Pro+ with a sleek 0.7-liter aluminum chassis that combines aesthetics with practicality. A spring-loaded hinge lever allows users and IT personnel to access the internals for tool-free upgrades, making it simple to replace or expand RAM and storage.

Durable and Sustainable Design

Built to meet US MIL-STD-810H certification, the NUC 15 Pro+ is tested for reliability in harsh environments and around-the-clock operation. This rugged design minimizes downtime and supports long-term use with reduced maintenance needs.

Detailed Specifications

The NUC 15 Pro+ is available in both pre-configured Mini-PC and customizable Kit versions. Supported operating systems include Windows 11 64-bit, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS, and RedHat Enterprise Linux. CPU options range from Intel Core Ultra 5 to Ultra 9, with memory configurations supporting up to 96GB DDR5-6400.

For storage, users can choose between M.2 2280 and 2242 PCIe Gen4x4 SSDs, with support ranging from 128GB to 2TB. Connectivity features include Intel WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, 2.5G Ethernet, USB 3.2 and Thunderbolt 4 ports, as well as HDMI CEC support. The device operates at temperatures between 0–35°C and stores safely between -40–60°C.

The ASUS NUC 15 Pro+ is available now, offering a powerful, compact solution for users who demand performance, efficiency, and flexibility in a mini PC format.

Image: Asus

This article, "ASUS Launches Compact and Powerful NUC 15 Pro+ Mini PC" was first published on Small Business Trends

What Your Small Business Needs to Know About SEO in 2025

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is one of the most critical aspects of digital marketing, and it continues to evolve each year. For small businesses, keeping up with these changes is essential to maintaining online visibility, attracting new customers, and staying ahead of the competition. In 2025, SEO is more dynamic than ever, with AI-driven search results, voice search optimization, user experience (UX) enhancements, and evolving Google algorithms shaping the digital landscape.

If you run a small business, understanding and implementing the latest SEO strategies can significantly impact your online growth. This article will explore what your small business needs to know about SEO in 2025, covering key trends, best practices, and actionable steps to stay ahead.

1. SEO Tools and Automation: The Future of Optimization

Leveraging SEO tools can significantly improve efficiency and accuracy. The best SEO tools in 2025 include:

• Google Search Console & Google Analytics for performance monitoring.
• SEMrush, Ahrefs, and Moz for competitive analysis and insights.
• SEO HERO for comprehensive SEO optimization, including on-page analysis, keyword research, and backlink tracking.
• SurferSEO & Clearscope for content optimization.

SEO automation is becoming essential for businesses looking to scale their online presence. AI-powered tools can now handle keyword research, technical audits, and even content suggestions, allowing businesses to focus on strategy and execution rather than manual SEO tasks. By leveraging these tools, small businesses can optimize their search presence more efficiently, track performance in real-time, and stay ahead of competitors with data-driven insights.

2. AI and Machine Learning are Shaping Search Results

Google’s search algorithm has been using AI and machine learning for years, but in 2025, it’s more advanced than ever. AI-driven updates like Google’s Multitask Unified Model (MUM) and Bard AI have made search results more intuitive, prioritizing content that provides accurate, contextual, and human-like responses.

What This Means for Small Businesses:

• Content Must Be Intent-Driven: AI understands user intent better than ever, so creating content that directly answers customer queries is essential.
• Semantic SEO Matters: Google no longer relies solely on keywords; it analyzes the entire context of a page to understand its meaning.
• Structured Data is Key: AI prioritizes well-structured content, so using schema markup can help search engines better understand your content.

Actionable Tip: Optimize for topic clusters rather than just individual keywords. Create comprehensive, authoritative content that covers a subject in-depth.

3. Voice Search is More Relevant Than Ever

With the rise of smart devices like Google Assistant, Siri, and Alexa, more users are searching hands-free. In fact, experts predict that by 2025, nearly 50% of all searches will be voice-based. Unlike traditional searches, voice queries are often longer and conversational.

What This Means for Small Businesses:

• Conversational Keywords Work Best: Optimize for natural-sounding, long-tail keywords that match how people speak.
• Local SEO is Crucial: Many voice searches are location-based (e.g., “best coffee shop near me”). Ensuring your business is optimized for local search is essential.
• FAQ Pages Improve Visibility: Since voice searches are often question-based, having an FAQ section that answers common questions can boost rankings.

Actionable Tip: Use Google My Business (GMB) to ensure your small business appears in local searches, and optimize for phrases like “Where can I find [your service] near me?”

4. Mobile-First Indexing is No Longer Optional

Google now ranks websites based on their mobile version rather than the desktop version. If your website isn’t optimized for mobile devices, you risk lower rankings. With over 60% of searches now conducted on mobile, Google prioritizes fast-loading, mobile-friendly websites in search results.

What This Means for Small Businesses:

• Mobile-Friendly Design is a Must: Your website should have a responsive design that adapts to different screen sizes.
• Fast Page Speed Matters: A slow website can drive visitors away and hurt your rankings.
• User Experience (UX) is a Ranking Factor: Websites with poor navigation, difficult-to-read text, or intrusive pop-ups will be penalized.

Actionable Tip: Use Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test to check if your website meets mobile SEO standards.

5. Zero-Click Searches are Growing

A zero-click search happens when users find answers directly on Google without clicking on a website. Featured Snippets, People Also Ask (PAA) sections, and Local Packs often provide immediate answers. While this reduces organic traffic, it presents an opportunity for small businesses to appear at the top of search results.

What This Means for Small Businesses:

• Optimize for Featured Snippets: These are highlighted answers at the top of search results. To increase your chances of ranking here:
  • Use concise, clear answers in your content.
  • Format content in bullet points, numbered lists, or tables.
• Answer People Also Ask (PAA) Questions: If you appear in Google’s “People Also Ask” section, you gain higher visibility.
• Optimize Google My Business Listings: Local Packs show up before traditional search results, making GMB optimization essential.

Actionable Tip: Use tools like AnswerThePublic to find common questions in your industry and answer them in blog posts.

6. Quality Content and E-A-T Are Still King

Google prioritizes Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness (E-A-T) when ranking content. Small businesses must establish credibility to compete with larger brands.

What This Means for Small Businesses:

• High-Quality Content Wins: Google rewards in-depth, well-researched, and informative content over keyword-stuffed, low-value pages.
• Author Credentials Matter: If you write content, showcase your expertise with author bios, certifications, or references.
• Backlinks Build Authority: Getting links from reputable websites boosts trustworthiness and improves rankings.

Actionable Tip: Regularly update old blog posts with new statistics and fresh insights to maintain relevance.

7. Local SEO is More Important Than Ever

For small businesses, local SEO is critical in attracting nearby customers. Google continues to refine local search algorithms, making it essential to optimize for “near me” searches and local business queries.

What This Means for Small Businesses:

• Google My Business Optimization is a Priority: Ensure your GMB listing is updated with:
  • Accurate business hours, address, and phone number.
  • High-quality photos of your business.
  • Regular customer reviews and responses.
• NAP Consistency is Key: Your Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) should be consistent across all directories and social media platforms.
• Local Keywords Drive Traffic: Use keywords like “best bakery in [city]” or “top-rated plumber near me” in your content.

Actionable Tip: Encourage satisfied customers to leave Google reviews, as businesses with high ratings appear more prominently in local search results.

8. Video SEO is Gaining Momentum

With YouTube being the second-largest search engine, video content is becoming an essential part of SEO strategy. More small businesses are leveraging video marketing to drive engagement.

What This Means for Small Businesses:

• YouTube Videos Can Rank on Google: Creating educational or promotional videos can help your business appear in search results.
• Video Captions Improve Accessibility and SEO: Including transcripts and captions makes content more searchable.
• Embed Videos on Your Website: This reduces bounce rates and improves on-site engagement.

Actionable Tip: Create short, how-to videos related to your business and optimize them with relevant keywords in titles and descriptions.

Final Thoughts: Staying Ahead in SEO for 2025

SEO is constantly evolving, and small businesses must adapt to remain competitive. In 2025, AI-driven search, voice search, mobile-first indexing, zero-click searches, and local SEO are shaping how businesses appear online.

Key Takeaways:

• AI and machine learning are transforming how Google ranks content.
• Voice search optimization is crucial for local businesses.
• Mobile-friendly websites and fast loading speeds are essential.
• Zero-click searches mean businesses need to optimize for Featured Snippets.
•  E-A-T principles ensure credibility and trust.
•  Local SEO strategies drive nearby customers to small businesses.
• Video SEO is an emerging opportunity for engagement.

By staying informed and implementing these SEO trends, your small business can achieve higher rankings, better visibility, and increased website traffic in 2025. Start optimizing today, and watch your business grow in the digital landscape.

Image: Envato

This article, "What Your Small Business Needs to Know About SEO in 2025" was first published on Small Business Trends

PostcardMania Adds Snap-Apart Mailers to Automated Direct Mail Lineup

PostcardMania, the marketing technology firm based in Florida, announced Wednesday the addition of snap-apart mailers to its automated direct mail offerings. The move comes through its technology-focused division, PCM Integrations, and expands the company’s range of affordable, high-response marketing tools for small and mid-sized businesses.

Snap-apart, or snap-pack mailers, are sealed documents with perforated tear-off edges. Often used by government agencies, the format gives the appearance of official correspondence and is designed to convey urgency. According to the company, this format boasts a 95% open rate and can be particularly effective in increasing response rates due to its trusted and official look.

Snap packs are suited for a wide range of industries but are especially useful in sectors such as insurance, finance, real estate, and healthcare. These mailers can be automatically triggered from customer relationship management (CRM) systems based on user-defined conditions—for example, when an insurance policy is nearing expiration or to remind patients of annual healthcare visits.

“Snap pack mailers are specifically formulated to be highly trusted,” said PostcardMania Founder and CEO Joy Gendusa. “This increases response to ensure businesses are spending their marketing dollars as wisely as possible for maximum revenue growth. With business costs increasing across the board — and digital ad costs up around 50% the last few years — it’s become more important than ever to ensure we offer the most cost-effective and results-generating products and services possible. Trigger-based snap-packs are a natural evolution of that mission.”

PCM Integrations (PCMi), the division behind the initiative, enables automated mailing campaigns triggered by customer activity through integrations with CRMs, websites, or other digital platforms. Businesses can automate sending mailers based on events such as a new lead capture, a quote being sent, or a lapse in communication. Mailings can range from just a few pieces to thousands, allowing businesses to control costs and only pay for the volume they use.

PCMi’s automated direct mail segment remains the fastest-growing arm of PostcardMania. In 2024, the division posted record performance, growing its revenue by 54.8%, total mailings by 89%, and new customer count by 110%. These numbers reflect growing demand among businesses for more automated, reliable, and results-driven marketing solutions.

PostcardMania’s total revenue also hit a new milestone in 2024, reaching $119 million. The company has averaged 17% annual growth since 2020, a significant increase from the 5% annual growth rate it maintained over the previous decade.

The company attributes this expansion to the resurgence of direct mail as a trusted marketing channel amid rising digital ad costs and growing consumer skepticism toward online ads. One cited study found that 76% of 1,200 consumers trusted direct mail, while only 25% trusted online pop-ups and 43% trusted social media ads.

Image: PostcardMania

This article, "PostcardMania Adds Snap-Apart Mailers to Automated Direct Mail Lineup" was first published on Small Business Trends

PayPal Surpasses $30 Billion in Global Small Business Lending

PayPal Holdings, Inc. announced Wednesday that it has surpassed $30 billion in global loan originations, providing more than 1.4 million loans and cash advances to over 420,000 business accounts worldwide since 2013. The milestone underscores the company’s ongoing role in addressing the persistent challenge of capital access for small businesses.

Small businesses account for more than 43% of the U.S. GDP and nearly 40% of private sector payroll, yet more than three-quarters of them remain concerned about securing the capital needed to sustain or grow their operations. In response to this concern, PayPal continues to expand its suite of financing solutions tailored to the unique needs of small and medium-sized businesses.

The company offers PayPal Business Loan and PayPal Working Capital to provide businesses with accessible, streamlined financing options. PayPal Working Capital, launched in 2013, is repaid as a percentage of a business’s PayPal sales and is currently available in the U.S., UK, Germany, France, Australia, and the Netherlands. PayPal Business Loan, introduced in 2017, features fixed repayments and is open to businesses that do not necessarily use PayPal to process payments.

“Access to capital is consistently one of the top challenges small businesses face as they look to maintain and scale their businesses,” said Michelle Gill, EVP and GM of SMB and Financial Services at PayPal. “Traditional business loans are not only difficult to secure for small businesses, but the application process can be challenging and prohibitively time consuming. PayPal’s financing solutions have a streamlined online application process with no lengthy paperwork or extensive credit checks, and approved PayPal loans are funded within minutes. We launched PayPal Working Capital and PayPal Business Loan to serve this important need, and to provide a quick and responsible way to inject much needed capital to help fuel small business growth.”

PayPal reports that its financing offerings are widely used for purposes such as purchasing inventory, hiring staff, making payroll, and scaling operations. The company noted that its customers renew loans or access PayPal’s financing services more than 90% of the time. Businesses also experience increased PayPal payment volume—36% after adopting PayPal Working Capital and 16% after taking out a PayPal Business Loan.

Customer satisfaction scores reinforce the success of the offerings, with Net Promoter Scores of 76 for PayPal Working Capital and 85 for PayPal Business Loan.

This article, "PayPal Surpasses $30 Billion in Global Small Business Lending" was first published on Small Business Trends

TikTok Launches Security Checkup Tool to Enhance User Safety

TikTok has introduced Security Checkup, a new feature designed to give users a streamlined and centralized way to manage their account security settings. Announced by Kim Albarella, Head of TikTok Global Security, the tool provides a comprehensive dashboard that helps users take control of their account security with ease and confidence.

According to the announcement, “Security Checkup, a powerful new tool that provides an all-in-one security dashboard to easily review and update account security settings.” The dashboard offers a step-by-step guide through several security features, aiming to simplify the process of safeguarding accounts.

Simplified Access and Control

Users can access the Security Checkup tool from their TikTok profile by selecting ‘Settings and privacy’ and then tapping ‘Security & permissions.’ Once inside the dashboard, they are presented with options to enhance various aspects of account security.

Key features include the ability to link both a phone number and email address, providing a backup login method. The tool also encourages users to enable 2-Step Verification for additional protection when logging in from unfamiliar devices.

Real-Time Monitoring and Alerts

TikTok’s new tool also supports device monitoring. Users are encouraged to “regularly check which devices are logged into your account and remove any that are unrecognized or no longer in use.”

Additionally, TikTok proactively detects unusual account behavior and flags it in the ‘Security & permissions’ settings. This allows users to spot suspicious activity quickly and take appropriate action.

Modern Authentication Options

The Security Checkup tool includes support for device-based authentication methods. Users now have the option to go password-free by using technologies like Face ID or Touch Unlock. According to the company, this provides “a secure and seamless sign-in” experience.

Image: TikTok

This article, "TikTok Launches Security Checkup Tool to Enhance User Safety" was first published on Small Business Trends

St. Paul Announces Opening Date for 2025 Neighborhood STAR Grant Applications

The City of St. Paul has announced that applications for its 2025 Neighborhood STAR grant program will open on Monday, March 31. The program offers grants to support capital improvement projects that enhance the vitality, cultural diversity, and economic prosperity of neighborhoods across the city.

Eligible businesses and organizations must be located in or conducting business within St. Paul and use the funds for permanent capital improvements with a projected lifespan of at least seven years. Most grant awards are $50,000 or less.

All applications must be submitted online through ZoomGrants by 4 p.m. on Friday, May 2. To qualify for consideration, applications must be complete and include all required attachments.

A virtual Neighborhood STAR Workshop will be held on Tuesday, April 8, from 1 to 2 p.m. This session will provide prospective applicants with program information, application guidance, and a chance to ask questions. Log-in details will be posted on the Neighborhood STAR website at stpaul.gov/nstar.

“The Neighborhood STAR program provides business owners and local organizations the funds to make better spaces,” said Amy Ennen Bertomeu and Alberto Bertomeu, owners of North End Car Wash and 2024 Neighborhood STAR grant recipients.

Since its inception in 1995, the Neighborhood STAR program has invested in more than 1,200 projects throughout St. Paul. It has enabled small businesses and community organizations to partner with the city to improve public spaces and drive neighborhood development.

“I am incredibly excited and grateful the City of Saint Paul is partnering with me on my project to bring love to Charles Avenue and Rice Street,” said Gloria Contreras Edin, owner of Tiger Investments, LLC and 2024 Neighborhood STAR awardee. “I am looking forward to starting my project and investing in our neighborhood.”

For additional details on the Neighborhood STAR program, including application guidelines and FAQs, visit stpaul.gov/nstar. Interested individuals are encouraged to join the program’s email list to receive updates.

This article, "St. Paul Announces Opening Date for 2025 Neighborhood STAR Grant Applications" was first published on Small Business Trends

PayPal Expands Crypto Capabilities to Simplify Everyday Transactions

PayPal has announced new features that make cryptocurrency more accessible and usable in everyday commerce, aiming to eliminate common barriers and drive broader adoption among consumers and merchants alike. With these enhancements, users can now buy, sell, hold, send, and spend cryptocurrencies through the PayPal platform, integrating digital currencies into routine purchases.

The company emphasizes its mission to enable seamless crypto payments at millions of merchants without requiring changes to existing payment systems. PayPal users can select supported cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, during checkout just like a credit or debit card. The transaction is handled by PayPal, providing a familiar and straightforward process.

PayPal also offers features like recurring purchases and price alerts, giving users more control over their crypto portfolios. Additionally, the platform now supports transferring crypto to friends and family, whether they use PayPal or external wallets. A newly introduced feature allows users to assign wallet addresses with custom names—such as JohnDoe.eth—and save them to an address book, making transfers easier and more secure.

For merchants, PayPal presents an opportunity to tap into the growing crypto economy without the need for new integrations or backend overhauls. By leveraging PayPal’s infrastructure, businesses can access trillions of dollars in crypto holdings without installing new checkout tools. Transactions are settled in USD and automatically converted to the merchant’s local currency, eliminating the complexity of managing cryptocurrency.

The company highlighted that these developments allow merchants to increase sales potential and enhance customer loyalty while positioning themselves as forward-thinking. Merchants do not need a crypto wallet, and no direct crypto management is required to benefit from the integration.

Security and trust remain central to PayPal’s approach. The company offers buyer and seller protection for eligible purchases funded with crypto. In addition, PayPal is the first payments platform to reimburse users up to $50,000 at no additional cost for unauthorized crypto transfers, adding an extra layer of confidence for customers.

As the cryptocurrency market surpasses $3.25 trillion and continues to expand, PayPal is positioning itself as a key player in bridging traditional commerce and digital finance. By integrating crypto into its suite of payment tools, PayPal aims to unlock new opportunities for consumers and businesses navigating the evolving digital economy.

Image: PayPal

This article, "PayPal Expands Crypto Capabilities to Simplify Everyday Transactions" was first published on Small Business Trends

Salesforce Report: 75% of Retailers Say AI Agents Will Be Essential by 2026

Retailers are increasingly turning to AI agents to stay competitive in a fast-evolving marketplace, according to Salesforce’s sixth Connected Shoppers Report. The report reveals that 75% of retail decision-makers believe AI agents will be essential to beat the competition within the next year.

Salesforce’s findings are based on dual surveys of 8,350 shoppers and 1,700 retail industry leaders. The data points to a shifting landscape marked by rising customer acquisition costs, increasing returns, and changing consumer behaviors that require a new approach to retail operations.

AI and Unified Commerce Emerge as Strategic Priorities

To manage growing complexities across digital and physical retail channels, retailers are prioritizing AI and unified commerce. These approaches are aimed at creating seamless customer experiences while controlling operational costs. “When retailers connect their sales channels, customer data, and operations in one platform, they create seamless shopping experiences both online and in-store,” said Michelle Grant, Director of Retail Strategy and Insights at Salesforce. “This unified approach boosts productivity and drives growth throughout the business.”

The report shows that 76% of retailers plan to increase investment in AI within the next year. Customer service is currently the top use case for AI agents, where they are used to respond to inquiries, track orders, and handle returns around the clock.

Velia Carboni, CIO of SharkNinja, highlighted the role of Agentforce — Salesforce’s agentic AI layer — in improving customer loyalty. Carboni described Agentforce as “key to helping us build a community that keeps consumers coming back.”

Retailers Expand AI Agent Applications

Beyond customer service, retailers foresee AI agents playing a broader role in optimizing websites, marketing, inventory management, and employee training. “AI agents represent the next wave of retail AI innovation — digital labor that promises to reshape how retailers scale their workforces, serve and market to customers, and streamline operations,” Grant said.

Barriers and Progress Toward Unified Commerce

Effective AI implementation requires integration across systems, yet many retailers still operate with disconnected platforms. According to the report, 81% of retailers say inefficient processes and technology reduce store associate productivity. Additionally, 49% of shoppers have abandoned purchases due to friction in the ordering process.

To address these challenges, 86% of retailers are pursuing unified commerce initiatives. By linking cross-channel and departmental operations, unified commerce improves efficiency, enhances the shopping experience, and enables AI systems to perform more effectively.

Consumers Show Growing Interest in AI Agents

The shift toward AI agents is not limited to retailers. The report notes that 39% of all shoppers — and 54% of Gen Z — already use AI for product discovery. Gen Z consumers are 10 times more likely than baby boomers to report frequent AI use in shopping.

Shoppers expressed strong interest in using AI agents for managing loyalty points, handling returns, and providing customer service — aligning with retailers’ focus areas. Among Gen Z shoppers, 63% are open to agents making purchases on their behalf.

However, shopper trust remains critical. The top factors influencing trust in AI agents include data privacy, on/off controls, approval requirements before purchases, data transparency, and access to human customer service.

“The data is clear: retailers and shoppers are both moving toward an AI agent future,” said Grant. “But success depends on addressing both sides of the equation — building the connected technology foundation retailers need while delivering the trust and transparency shoppers demand.”

Image: Salesforce

This article, "Salesforce Report: 75% of Retailers Say AI Agents Will Be Essential by 2026" was first published on Small Business Trends

SBA Announces Major Reorganization, Plans to Cut Workforce by 43%

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) on Friday announced an agency-wide reorganization that includes a 43% reduction in its workforce as part of a broader effort to return to its original mission of supporting small businesses and increasing agency accountability to taxpayers.

The restructuring, authorized under Executive Order 14210, is intended to reverse what the agency described as “the expansive social policy agenda of the prior Administration” and eliminate non-essential roles added during the pandemic. The move will return SBA staffing to pre-pandemic levels.

Under the plan, SBA will eliminate about 2,700 of its approximately 6,500 active positions through voluntary resignations, expiring term appointments, and a limited number of reductions in force. The agency said the average SBA salary is more than $132,000, and the changes are expected to save taxpayers over $435 million annually by Fiscal Year 2026.

Core services including SBA’s loan guarantee programs, disaster assistance, field operations, and support for veterans will remain intact. The agency stated these services will not be impacted by the reductions.

“The SBA was created to be a launchpad for America’s small businesses by offering access to capital, which in turn drives job creation, innovation, and a thriving Main Street. But in the last four years, the agency has veered off track – doubling in size and turning into a sprawling leviathan plagued by mission creep, financial mismanagement, and waste. Instead of serving small businesses, the SBA served a partisan political agenda – expanding in size, scope, and spending,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler.

“Just like the small business owners we support, we must do more with less. We have therefore submitted plans to pursue a strategic restructuring that will realign the agency and its resources with our founding mission. By eliminating non-mission-critical positions and consolidating functions, we will revert to the staffing levels of the last Trump Administration, which supported a historic economic boom. We will return our focus to driving private sector growth and delivering disaster relief with accountability, efficiency, and results.”

Key elements of the reorganization include expanding support for capital formation by shifting resources away from prior progressive programs; prioritizing risk management and fraud prevention through centralization within the Office of the Chief Financial Officer; and increasing disaster recovery support by transferring loan servicing responsibilities and personnel to the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience.

SBA will also eliminate redundant pandemic-era positions associated with loan processing in the Office of Capital Access. The plan sets a goal of having 30% of agency staff located in the field, aiming to decentralize services and improve outreach to Main Street businesses. The Office of Veterans Business Development and the Office of Manufacturing and Trade will retain existing staffing levels, and the Office of Advocacy and the Office of the Inspector General will be exempt from the reductions.

According to the agency, much of the reorganization is focused on reversing the SBA’s expansion during the Biden Administration, which it said led to a deterioration of services and financial performance. The agency cited $200 billion in estimated PPP and COVID-EIDL fraud and claimed that changes to the 7(a) loan program had resulted in increased defaults and negative cash flow.

The SBA said it will carry out the reorganization plan in the coming weeks while preserving core public services through a strategic transfer of duties.

This article, "SBA Announces Major Reorganization, Plans to Cut Workforce by 43%" was first published on Small Business Trends

Small Biz Breakdown: What’s With All the Hype Over Agentic AI?

This week, our Small Biz Breakdown crew is flying without a net, per se. There’s no agenda – not as if they’re always following the one they sometimes have – and the conversation could go anywhere.

Like most weeks, however, the discussion always seems to focus on the latest in AI. And this week is no different. Zeroing in on news this week from Verizon, the Small Biz Breakdown crew discusses at length agentic AI.

Is this just the next Metaverse, as one panelist suggests it could be? Or is there more to this emerging trend?

Check out what everyone’s got to say on this hot topic in the latest episode of Small Biz Breakdown. Check out the latest small business news headlines from Small Business Trends below …

Small Business News Roundup – March 23, 2025

Verizon Business Launches GenAI Assistant for Small Businesses

Verizon Business has introduced Verizon Business Assistant, a generative AI-powered text messaging solution designed to help small businesses automate customer interactions. This tool provides instant responses to frequently asked questions, learns from interactions, and connects customers to live employees when needed.

Wix Launches Wix Functions to Enhance Business Customization

Wix has introduced Wix Functions, a no-code solution that allows users to create customized business flows, automate pricing and checkout rules, and tailor app behavior. This new tool provides businesses with greater flexibility to adapt operations to their specific needs without requiring technical expertise.

Adobe Introduces AI Agents to Experience Cloud for Enhanced Customer Engagement

Adobe (Nasdaq: ADBE) has announced new AI-driven capabilities in Adobe Experience Cloud aimed at helping businesses deliver highly personalized and seamless customer experiences across multiple channels. The announcement was made at Adobe Summit, the company’s flagship digital experience conference.

Paychex Survey Finds AI Adoption Gaining Traction Among Small Businesses

A new survey from Paychex reveals that small businesses across the U.S. are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance productivity, revenue, and workforce development.

Adobe Expands Firefly Services and Custom Models for Scalable Content Production

Adobe has announced new enhancements to Adobe Firefly Services and Firefly Custom Models, aimed at helping businesses meet the rising demand for personalized content across multiple digital platforms. The announcement was made at Adobe Summit, the company’s flagship digital experience conference.

NordProtect Becomes Stand-Alone Service, Adds Online Fraud Coverage

NordVPN’s identity theft protection solution, NordProtect, is now available as a stand-alone service in the United States, allowing users to access identity theft protection without purchasing a NordVPN Prime plan.

vcita Launches Upgraded BizAI with Agentic AI for SMBs

vcita, a technology platform serving small businesses and the organizations that support them, has announced an advanced upgrade to its BizAI product, introducing agentic AI capabilities designed specifically for SMBs. The latest version of BizAI aims to blend automation with human oversight, allowing businesses to streamline essential operations while maintaining control.

SBA Announces 2025 National Small Business Week Award Winners

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced the national program and specialty award winners for the 2025 National Small Business Week, which will take place from May 4-10. The awards recognize businesses and resource partners for their contributions in government contracting, disaster recovery, and key areas such as exporting, small business investment, and surety bonding.

Famous Amos Launches 2025 Ingredients for Success Initiative and ‘Famously You’ Campaign

Ferrero North America has launched the 2025 Famous Amos Ingredients for Success (IFS) Entrepreneurs Initiative in partnership with the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. Now in its fifth year, the program provides financial support and resources to early-stage Black business owners.

Hostinger Launches AI-Powered No-Code Web App Solution, Hostinger Horizons

Hostinger has announced the global launch of Hostinger Horizons, an AI-powered no-code web app solution designed to help businesses and individuals create fully functional web apps without coding skills. The platform enables users to develop, publish, and host web apps without relying on third-party integrations.

Small Biz Breakdown: New from OpenAI and the Latest Economic Indicators

This week, our Small Biz Breakdown crew is back and talking about some of the biggest stories that matter most to small business owners and entrepreneurs right now.

American Express Study Finds Businesses Prioritizing Payments Automation in 2025

A new study from American Express reveals that the majority of businesses are looking to improve their payments processes in 2025, with automation emerging as a key focus. The Amex Trendex: B2B Payments Edition survey, which polled 1,000 U.S. business decision-makers, highlights the role of streamlined payments in business growth, supplier relationships, and operational efficiency.

Zendesk to Acquire Local Measure, Expanding AI-Powered Voice Capabilities

Zendesk has announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Local Measure, a provider of Contact Center as a Service (CCaaS) and advanced voice solutions.

This article, "Small Biz Breakdown: What’s With All the Hype Over Agentic AI?" was first published on Small Business Trends

Meta Begins Testing Community Notes on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads

Meta announced it will begin testing its new Community Notes feature across Facebook, Instagram, and Threads in the United States starting March 18. This marks the beginning of Meta’s transition away from its third-party fact-checking program, which the company revealed in January it would discontinue in favor of a crowd-sourced model.

Community Notes is designed to allow users to add context to posts, similar to the existing system used by X (formerly Twitter). Meta said, “We expect Community Notes to be less biased than the third party fact checking program it replaces because it allows more people with more perspectives to add context to posts.”

Initially, notes written by contributors will not appear publicly. Meta plans to gradually and randomly admit participants from a pool of roughly 200,000 people who have signed up across the three platforms. The system will be tested internally to ensure its functionality before any public deployment.

Meta emphasized that it is taking a deliberate and measured approach. “We’re going to take time to do this right,” the company said. Contributors must meet eligibility criteria, including being over 18 years old, having an account in good standing that’s over six months old, and either a verified phone number or enrollment in two-factor authentication.

Notes will be limited to 500 characters and must include a source link. Initially, contributors will remain anonymous, with author names withheld to encourage unbiased evaluations of the context provided. The feature will launch in six languages commonly used in the United States: English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, and Portuguese.

According to Meta, contributors will not be permitted to submit notes on advertisements but will be allowed to annotate posts by Meta, public figures, and political accounts. The system will also be inaccessible for content moderation penalties; unlike previous fact checks, Community Notes will not reduce a post’s distribution or visibility.

Meta said, “This isn’t majority rules. No matter how many contributors agree on a note, it won’t be published unless people who normally disagree decide that it provides helpful context.”

To build the rating system, Meta is adopting X’s open-source algorithm as a foundation. This algorithm will help assess agreement across different viewpoints by evaluating contributors’ historical ratings and identifying those who typically disagree. Meta plans to refine the system over time based on real-world testing and contributor feedback.

“We’re building this in the open while learning from contributors and seeing how it works in practice in our products,” the company stated. Meta acknowledged that the process will not be perfect and committed to ongoing improvements.

Once Meta is confident in the effectiveness of the system, Community Notes will fully replace third-party fact-checking in the United States. At that point, no new third-party fact check labels will be applied, though former fact-checkers will be welcome to participate as contributors.

“Our intention is ultimately to roll out this new approach to our users all over the world, but we won’t be doing that immediately,” Meta said. Until then, the existing third-party fact-checking program will continue operating outside the United States.

Image: Meta

This article, "Meta Begins Testing Community Notes on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads" was first published on Small Business Trends

Zoom Unveils Major Expansion of AI Companion with Agentic Skills and Custom Agents

Zoom has announced a significant expansion of its AI Companion platform, introducing new agentic AI skills and custom agent capabilities that span across Zoom Meetings, Zoom Phone, Zoom Team Chat, Zoom Docs, and Zoom Contact Center. The announcement, made March 17 during a company event in Orlando, highlights more than 45 innovations aimed at boosting productivity, simplifying workflows, and strengthening relationships through enhanced AI functionality.

“AI Companion is evolving from a personal assistant to being truly agentic, which signals a major leap forward in how AI can enhance productivity and collaboration at work,” said Smita Hashim, chief product officer at Zoom. “We’re delivering value for our customers through AI agents and agentic skills that solve real customer problems, helping them connect, collaborate, and get more done, all within the Zoom platform our users trust and love.”

Agentic Skills for Streamlined Workflows

Zoom’s AI Companion now includes multi-step task execution, using memory and reasoning to tap into appropriate agents and skills. New agentic features include calendar management, clip generation, advanced writing assistance, and the ability to manage complex customer service workflows through Zoom Virtual Agent.

AI Companion’s expanded role includes task orchestration and decision-making capabilities, enabling it to learn over time and improve efficiency. Zoom users can also access custom AI agents through AI Studio, allowing tailored virtual agents for specific business needs. These features are available in beta and are expected to become widely accessible later this spring.

Custom AI Companion Add-On

Zoom plans to launch a Custom AI Companion add-on in April for $12 per user per month. The add-on enables organizations to customize AI Companion with their own meeting templates, industry-specific vocabulary, and third-party data sources. Features include a personal AI coach, custom meeting summaries, and the ability to create custom avatars for Zoom Clips using user-provided scripts.

The add-on will incorporate Small Language Models (SLMs) trained on multilingual data to complement Zoom’s third-party LLMs. These models are optimized for specific tasks and built to facilitate multi-agent collaboration.

AI Companion Across Zoom Workplace

Zoom Tasks with AI Companion will debut in late March, allowing users to track and complete tasks from summaries, chats, and emails within Zoom Docs. AI-generated meeting agendas and live notes will launch in May, and voicemail summaries for Zoom Phone are already available. A new mobile voice recorder is also expected to launch in March, offering transcription and action item extraction.

Zoom Docs will receive advanced AI enhancements in June and July, including context-based writing plans, internal/external data searches, and automated table generation. Zoom Drive, a centralized content repository, will launch in May.

Customer Experience and Industry Solutions

Zoom is extending AI capabilities into customer-facing services. Zoom Contact Center will feature Zoom Virtual Agent for voice and chat, along with AI-intent routing and Advanced Quality Management. AI-intent routing launches in March, with the latter expected in May.

Zoom Business Services will integrate agentic skills for marketing, sales, and customer care. Zoom Revenue Accelerator will soon include a sales-focused agent offering insights and prospecting tools.

Industry-specific offerings are also in development. Zoom Workplace for Frontline launches in April with mobile-first tools for on-shift workers. Zoom Workplace for Clinicians, expected in late March, will automatically generate clinical notes. Zoom Workplace for Education will add AI-generated lecture summaries in May and live transcript interaction later in the year.

Zoom is also expanding its hardware certification program in April to include document cameras for education and patient-room cameras for healthcare.

Zoom AI Companion continues to be included at no extra cost for customers with paid Zoom accounts. Some advanced features, customizations, and agents may require additional fees or separate pricing tiers.

This article, "Zoom Unveils Major Expansion of AI Companion with Agentic Skills and Custom Agents" was first published on Small Business Trends

Walmart Introduces GenAI-Powered Assistant to Support Merchants

Walmart has unveiled Wally, a generative AI-powered assistant developed to enhance the productivity of its merchants by automating key merchandising tasks. The company announced the tool on March 18, describing it as a “productivity multiplier” designed to streamline data analysis, operational support, and reporting processes for Walmart’s sourcing teams.

According to the company, Wally was built using Walmart’s proprietary data and is aimed at eliminating the manual effort traditionally required for core merchandising functions. Tasks such as data entry and analysis, root cause identification for product performance, advanced calculations, and how-to support are now handled by the AI assistant.

The company illustrated the utility of Wally with a scenario: a bread merchant looking to track trends in protein-based food demand might previously need to analyze a variety of performance data across channels, regions, and brands. The process required running multiple reports and manually extracting insights. Wally simplifies that by delivering answers in seconds through natural language queries.

“Merchants can simply ask questions and receive actionable insights in seconds,” Walmart stated. The tool’s intuitive interface eliminates the need for technical training, allowing users to quickly extract and act on data insights.

Wally is underpinned by a semantic layer built specifically to navigate the unique structure of Walmart’s proprietary data. This allows the AI assistant to process large volumes of product information efficiently using advanced algorithms and Walmart’s own computational infrastructure.

Walmart emphasized that developing an AI assistant for its merchandising operations was a complex endeavor due to the specialized nature of the data involved. Traditional AI models, typically trained on publicly available information, were not suited to meet Walmart’s specific needs.

“We built a semantic layer, enabling Wally to understand the intricacies of our proprietary data,” the company noted.

Merchants have reportedly responded positively to Wally’s rollout, and Walmart plans to continue evolving the assistant. Future updates are expected to include autonomous functionality within configurable guardrails, enabling Wally to carry out tactical actions based on merchant strategies.

By automating time-consuming tasks and providing real-time insights, Walmart aims to free its merchants to focus on strategic initiatives and creative decision-making. The company believes this will ultimately improve customer satisfaction by delivering the right products at the right time with greater efficiency.

Image: Walmart

This article, "Walmart Introduces GenAI-Powered Assistant to Support Merchants" was first published on Small Business Trends

Optimum Business and LIA Foundation Relaunch L.O.C.A.L. Small Business Grants

Optimum Business and the LIA Foundation have announced the relaunch of the L.O.C.A.L. (Lifting Our Community Businesses Across Long Island) Small Business Grants, aimed at supporting small businesses across Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Now in its second year, the program will award $5,000 grants to 40 selected small businesses, along with two grand prize grants of $25,000—one each for a business in Nassau and Suffolk County.

According to the announcement, the program’s goal is to invest directly in the local economy by helping small businesses grow and thrive. The L.O.C.A.L. grants are made possible through Optimum Business, the program’s founding partner.

“Optimum Business is thrilled to continue our partnership with the LIA Foundation to support the vibrant small business community on Long Island. By providing these grants once again, we are not just investing in individual businesses, but in the economic health and future prosperity of our entire region,” said Andrew Rainone, Senior Vice President of National Sales at Optimum. “Our commitment to the small business community goes beyond financial support; Optimum Business is dedicated to fostering an environment where these businesses can thrive and providing connectivity services and resources to succeed in today’s digital world.”

To date, the partnership has awarded $250,000 in grants to 50 small businesses. This year, the program continues to expand outreach efforts by working with the Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (LIHCC) and the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce (LIAACC).

“The LIA is extraordinarily proud to partner once again with Optimum Business, the Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce to stimulate economic growth across Long Island,” said Matt Cohen, President & CEO of the Long Island Association. “Small businesses fuel our region’s vibrancy, and the goals of L.O.C.A.L. Small Business Grants program are to empower entrepreneurs, create jobs, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents on Long Island.”

As an added benefit, the LIA will offer a six-month complimentary membership to applicants and a one-year membership to grant recipients who are new to the organization, further supporting their business development and networking opportunities.

Phil Andrews, President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the broader economic impact of the program.

“The L.O.C.A.L. Small Business Grants funded by Optimum in partnership with the LIA, LIAACC, and the LIHCC provides support to small businesses to Long Island’s regional economy and serves as a marketing function to highlight business success on Long Island,” Andrews said. “Supporting small businesses on Long Island creates and maintains jobs on Long Island which supports a strong Long Island economy.”

Luis Vazquez, President of the Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the continued challenges faced by Hispanic-owned businesses.

“The 2025 L.O.C.A.L. Small Business Grants represent a critical investment in the future of our small businesses. Hispanic-owned businesses, in particular, continue to navigate the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, facing ongoing challenges in the recovery process,” Vazquez said. “These grants will provide essential financial support to help them grow, create jobs, and further contribute to the communities they serve. Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, and the diverse entrepreneurs who power them are key to Long Island’s prosperity. We are proud to play a role in lifting up our business community and ensuring a thriving, inclusive economic future for all.”

Grant recipients are expected to be announced later this year. Optimum Business will also host recognition events this summer, joined by local officials and community partners.

Optimum Business states that its continued investment in initiatives like L.O.C.A.L. underscores the company’s commitment to connecting customers to what matters most.

More information, including submission requirements and official program rules, is available at www.longislandassociation.org/foundation.

This article, "Optimum Business and LIA Foundation Relaunch L.O.C.A.L. Small Business Grants" was first published on Small Business Trends

ResponseForce1 Unveils New Compliance and Security Solutions for SMBs

ResponseForce1, a Florida-based IT services firm with experience in disaster response and cybersecurity, has announced the launch of a new suite of compliance and security services designed specifically for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). The new Managed Services solution, branded RF1-TS, is set to go live on April 15, 2025.

According to the company, the RF1-TS suite aims to help SMBs achieve and maintain compliance with NIST 800-171 and the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), providing customers with the tools necessary to take control of their IT environments.

Comprehensive Services and Continuous Support

The new offering includes Managed Service Provider (MSP) and Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) solutions to help businesses meet regulatory requirements while strengthening their overall security posture. The services operate 24x7x365, providing continuous protection and support.

ResponseForce1 states that the services are designed to offer “a seamless pathway to regulatory readiness, cybersecurity resilience, and operational efficiency.”

Built on Leading Technology

The RF1-TS platform integrates industry-recognized technologies from NinjaOne, SentinelOne, Redspin, and IntelliGRC. These tools enable ResponseForce1 to provide end-to-end support across a range of critical areas, including:

• Compliance advisory services to prepare for CMMC assessments
• Continuous monitoring and endpoint protection
• Advanced threat detection and response
• Governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) management

With its CMMC Level 2 certification already achieved, ResponseForce1 positions itself as a capable and reliable partner in helping businesses navigate the increasingly complex compliance environment.

Experience in Critical Infrastructure Protection

ResponseForce1 emphasizes its background in disaster response and critical infrastructure protection as a differentiator from traditional providers. According to the company, its leadership team includes seasoned IT and security experts who offer a tailored approach to compliance and security for each client.

Meeting Today’s Cybersecurity Demands

As cybersecurity threats become more sophisticated, businesses face growing pressure to comply with government and industry regulations. ResponseForce1 states that regulatory compliance is now a necessity, not a choice, and aims to provide SMBs with the tools, expertise, and strategic guidance needed to meet those demands confidently.

For more information about RF1-TS and ResponseForce1’s range of services, visit www.ResponseForce1.com or contact info.ts@rf1.us.

 

This article, "ResponseForce1 Unveils New Compliance and Security Solutions for SMBs" was first published on Small Business Trends

Gas Prices Tick Upward Amid Seasonal Shift to Summer Fuel, AAA Reports

After a period of relative stability, the national average for a gallon of gasoline has climbed by 4 cents over the past week, reaching $3.12, according to AAA. The price increase comes despite crude oil prices remaining below $70 per barrel and is largely attributed to the seasonal transition to summer-blend gasoline, which is more expensive to produce due to its reduced volatility in warm temperatures.

The national average for public electric vehicle (EV) charging remained unchanged at 34 cents per kilowatt hour.

Supply and Demand Factors

New data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows a decline in gasoline demand, which dropped from 9.18 million barrels per day to 8.81 million. At the same time, total domestic gasoline supply decreased slightly from 241.1 million barrels to 240.6 million. Despite the lower demand and reduced supply, gasoline production increased, averaging 9.6 million barrels per day over the past week.

Today’s national average for gasoline remains 4 cents lower than one month ago and roughly 40 cents lower than the same time last year.

Oil Market Overview

On Wednesday, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil rose 26 cents during the formal trading session to settle at $67.16 per barrel. The EIA reported that U.S. crude oil inventories rose by 1.7 million barrels from the previous week. At 437.0 million barrels, the current inventory level is about 5% below the five-year average for this time of year.

Gas Price Extremes Across the Nation

California tops the list of the most expensive gasoline markets, with an average price of $4.64 per gallon. It is followed by Hawaii ($4.53), Washington ($4.09), Nevada ($3.74), Oregon ($3.73), Alaska ($3.39), Illinois ($3.38), Arizona ($3.34), Idaho ($3.26), and Pennsylvania ($3.22).

On the other end of the spectrum, the least expensive states for gasoline are Mississippi ($2.66), Oklahoma ($2.69), Kentucky ($2.69), Tennessee ($2.69), Louisiana ($2.73), Alabama ($2.74), Texas ($2.76), Arkansas ($2.76), South Carolina ($2.78), and Kansas ($2.80).

EV Charging Cost Breakdown

While gasoline prices have seen an uptick, the cost of public EV charging has remained steady. The highest average cost per kilowatt hour is found in Hawaii at 56 cents. Other states with elevated charging rates include West Virginia (46 cents), Montana (45 cents), South Carolina (42 cents), Tennessee (42 cents), Idaho (42 cents), Alaska (41 cents), Kentucky (40 cents), New Hampshire (40 cents), and Louisiana (39 cents).

The least expensive states for public charging include Kansas (22 cents), Missouri (25 cents), Nebraska (26 cents), Iowa (26 cents), North Dakota (26 cents), Delaware (27 cents), Michigan (29 cents), Texas (29 cents), Utah (29 cents), and Washington, DC (30 cents).

As refineries continue to shift production to summer-grade gasoline, AAA notes that further price increases at the pump may follow in the coming weeks, even in the absence of significant changes in crude oil prices.

Image: AAA

This article, "Gas Prices Tick Upward Amid Seasonal Shift to Summer Fuel, AAA Reports" was first published on Small Business Trends

San Antonio Rolls Out $1.4M in Grants to Help Construction-Impacted Small Businesses

San Antonio is launching a new $1.4 million grant program to support small businesses affected by city-led construction projects, according to the latest from San Antonio Report. The initiative, presented by the city’s Economic Development Department, includes three separate grants to provide assistance before, during, and after construction.

The largest of the three, the Stabilization Construction Grant, is backed by $1 million and will offer up to $35,000 to eligible businesses along streets like South Alamo and within the Zona Cultural. To qualify, businesses must demonstrate net revenue losses from the past year. An estimated 266 businesses could benefit from this funding.

The Mitigation Construction Grant targets businesses preparing for major upcoming projects. This round focuses on the Marbach Road Streets and Drainage Project, expected to begin this fall. Grants of $2,000 will be available for up to 40 businesses to help cover marketing and signage expenses. A total of $80,000 has been allocated for this effort.

The third grant, the Accelerate Recovery Grant, supports businesses along roads where construction was recently completed, including Broadway Street and Bulverde Road. With $120,000 in funding, the program will offer $5,000 grants for up to 24 businesses to make exterior or interior improvements—such as painting, signage, or seating upgrades.

Applications for the Stabilization and Recovery grants open by May 1, while the Mitigation Grant application period begins June 2.

According to San Antonio Report, city data shows past construction-related grants improved small business survival rates, particularly in food and accommodation sectors.

This article, "San Antonio Rolls Out $1.4M in Grants to Help Construction-Impacted Small Businesses" was first published on Small Business Trends

CalChamber Launches Small Business Grant Program to Aid California Entrepreneurs

The California Chamber of Commerce has announced the launch of the first Small Business Grant Awards, offering $20,000 in total funding to support small businesses across the state. In partnership with the Sacramento Host Committee, the California Retailers Association, the California Restaurant Association, the California New Car Dealers Association, Western Growers, and Visit California, CalChamber will award four $5,000 grants to selected recipients.

Two of the grants will go to small businesses impacted by recent wildfires in Los Angeles—specifically one business affected by the Eaton Fire and another by the Palisades Fire. The remaining two grants will be awarded to small businesses from the Greater California area. In addition to the financial support, each recipient will receive a complimentary one-year Online Membership with CalChamber, valued at $499.

To qualify, applicants must meet several eligibility criteria. They must be independently owned and operated, located in California, and have 100 or fewer employees. Additionally, they must have average annual gross receipts of $15 million or less over the previous three years and demonstrate alignment with CalChamber’s mission to enhance California’s economy and business environment.

Applicants must also show how their business contributes in the areas of leadership, employee relations, community impact, and innovation. This includes efforts in job creation, financial growth, workforce development, sustainability, and the implementation of unique business solutions. Applicants affiliated with CalChamber’s board or employed by the organization are not eligible.

All applicants must be available to attend the California Business Outlook Dinner in Sacramento on June 4, 2025, where the awards will be presented. Applications must be submitted via the official Small Business Grants Submission Form no later than April 11, 2025. The four grant recipients will be announced on May 5, 2025.

Grant funds may be used to support business operations, recovery, growth, or other legitimate business needs, but may not be applied to political or lobbying activities. Recipients are solely responsible for any tax liabilities associated with the grant.

Award recipients will also be expected to comply with all federal, state, and local regulations, and participate in promotional activities related to the program, such as interviews and testimonials. Failure to comply with the program’s terms may result in forfeiture of the grant and potential legal action.

CalChamber and its partner organizations reserve the right to modify or cancel the grant program at any time. All decisions by the selection committee are final and not subject to appeal.

Applicants are advised that information submitted will be used solely for program administration and evaluation. Confidential business information will remain protected unless disclosure is required by law. By applying, applicants consent to the use of their business name and general information for promotional purposes.

Questions about the Small Business Grant Program can be directed to the Grant Awards Administrator at smallbizgrants@calchamber.com.

This article, "CalChamber Launches Small Business Grant Program to Aid California Entrepreneurs" was first published on Small Business Trends

Verizon Business Launches GenAI Assistant for Small Businesses

Verizon Business has introduced Verizon Business Assistant, a generative AI-powered text messaging solution designed to help small businesses automate customer interactions. This tool provides instant responses to frequently asked questions, learns from interactions, and connects customers to live employees when needed.

AI-Powered Customer Support

Verizon Business Assistant enables small businesses to enhance customer engagement by automating responses via text messaging 24/7. According to Verizon Business, this tool helps businesses save time, serve more customers efficiently, and gain valuable insights into customer needs and preferences.

“Small business owners are constantly juggling multiple responsibilities, and want to use technology to improve operations and better connect with their customers,” said Iris Meijer, Chief Product & Marketing Officer, Verizon Business. “Yet access to that technology and AI tools that work for small businesses can be a challenge, which is where we want to help champion them. Verizon Business Assistant is one example of a solution we’re rolling out to support small business owners. It also addresses an increasing customer demand – particularly from younger generations – for easy digital tools to communicate with businesses on simple matters. This allows small business owners to focus on growing their business while ensuring their customers feel valued and connected to the business.”

Key Features and Benefits

Verizon Business highlights several features of the AI-powered assistant, including:

• Automated Responses: Provides immediate answers to customer inquiries, reducing the need for manual responses.
• Live Team Member Handoff: Transfers complex inquiries to a live employee when necessary.
• Continuous Learning: Builds a knowledge base over time to improve response accuracy.
• Text Messaging (SMS/MMS): Uses a familiar communication channel to enhance customer engagement.
• Insights Dashboard: Provides business owners with data on customer interactions and trends.
• Easy Setup and Customization: Integrates with existing Verizon mobile devices without requiring additional hardware or software. Business owners can customize responses and training to fit their specific needs.

Enhancing Small Business Operations

Verizon Business notes that the launch of Business Assistant comes as small businesses seek technology solutions to streamline operations and better serve customers. The company references findings from its fifth Annual State of Small Business Report, which indicates that small business owners are increasingly looking for ways to improve efficiency and connect with customers through digital tools.

With Verizon Business Assistant, small businesses now have access to AI technology typically leveraged by larger enterprises. By automating routine interactions, the solution allows business owners and employees to focus on higher-value tasks while ensuring customers receive prompt and accurate responses.

Verizon Business Assistant is now available and easily deployable for small business owners looking to enhance customer service through AI-driven automation.

This article, "Verizon Business Launches GenAI Assistant for Small Businesses" was first published on Small Business Trends

Adobe Introduces AI Agents to Experience Cloud for Enhanced Customer Engagement

Adobe (Nasdaq: ADBE) has announced new AI-driven capabilities in Adobe Experience Cloud aimed at helping businesses deliver highly personalized and seamless customer experiences across multiple channels. The announcement was made at Adobe Summit, the company’s flagship digital experience conference.

The new AI-powered tools include an AI-first module in Adobe Journey Optimizer (AJO) and enhancements to Adobe Experience Manager (AEM), both designed to optimize omnichannel performance and improve web engagement. According to Adobe, these innovations leverage its AI Platform, which integrates AI agents from Adobe, third-party providers, and commercially safe Firefly models to unify data, content, and customer journeys.

“Delivering a unified customer experience requires a much more agile and streamlined operation that solves real customer pain points, which can often be resource and time constrained,” says Amit Ahuja, senior vice president, Digital Experience Business, Adobe. “Adobe is uniquely positioned to help brands meet this moment, with deep expertise in unifying AI, data and content production workflows to execute the right digital experiences with precision, while uncovering unseen problems.”

New AI Capabilities in Adobe Experience Cloud

Adobe’s latest AI-powered innovations provide businesses with tools to actively orchestrate AI-driven experiences. Among the key offerings:

• Adobe Journey Optimizer Experimentation Accelerator: A new AI-first module in AJO designed to identify high-impact opportunities and optimize omnichannel engagement. The Experimentation Agent analyzes trends, learns from previous experiments, and generates insights for improved customer journey strategies.
• Adobe Experience Manager Sites Optimizer: An application that enhances web performance through automated issue diagnosis and solution recommendations. The new Site Optimization Agent detects engagement trends, identifies SEO issues, and suggests real-time content modifications to improve conversion rates.

Leading brands such as The Coca-Cola Company, Delta Airlines, Major League Baseball, Marriott International, and NVIDIA already rely on Adobe Experience Cloud to drive digital customer interactions.

Expanding AI Solutions for Enterprise B2B Teams

In addition to customer engagement tools, Adobe introduced AI capabilities for business-to-business (B2B) enterprises, aimed at streamlining go-to-market strategies and improving sales and marketing alignment.

• AI Agents for B2B Account Orchestration: AI-driven workflows assist in lead generation by forming buying groups, assigning roles, and recommending targeted omnichannel engagement strategies.
• AI-Powered Content Creation: Marketers can leverage Adobe Firefly generative AI and Adobe Express for automated content generation across email, web, and paid media campaigns.
• Customer Journey Insights: AI-powered analytics in Adobe Customer Journey Analytics B2B Edition provide real-time campaign assessments and sales pipeline insights.
• Reimagined Lead & Contact Journeys: Marketo Engage now includes a new visual journey designer, enabling teams to create AI-optimized campaigns tailored for lead conversion.

With these advancements, Adobe aims to bridge the gap between AI, marketing, and creativity, enabling businesses to scale personalized digital experiences. The company continues to enhance Adobe Experience Platform with integrated AI orchestration and customer experience data, reinforcing its position as a leader in AI-driven customer engagement solutions.

The new AI-powered features in Adobe Experience Cloud are now available for businesses looking to optimize customer interactions and digital marketing strategies.

Image: Adobe

This article, "Adobe Introduces AI Agents to Experience Cloud for Enhanced Customer Engagement" was first published on Small Business Trends

Paychex Survey Finds AI Adoption Gaining Traction Among Small Businesses

A new survey from Paychex reveals that small businesses across the U.S. are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance productivity, revenue, and workforce development. According to the study, which surveyed over 1,000 business owners and HR leaders, 72% of small businesses have a positive outlook on AI, despite ongoing concerns about data accuracy, security, and privacy.

Among businesses currently using AI, 66% reported increased productivity as a key benefit. Additional advantages cited by respondents included cost savings (44%), revenue growth (40%), improved recruiting (35%), higher employee satisfaction (34%), and enhanced customer acquisition (34%).

The study also found that 82% of respondents believe AI is helpful to their business, and 76% expect it to have a moderate to significant impact over the next five years. Currently, 65% of surveyed businesses report using AI, with its adoption most prevalent in customer support (64%), finance and accounting (42%), and HR functions (50%).

“AI allows a business to punch way above its weight,” said Beaumont Vance, Paychex senior vice president of data, analytics, and AI. “It’s a particularly great equalizer for small- and medium-sized businesses in an increasingly competitive landscape. Understanding and embracing AI’s full potential can boost efficiency, enhance decision-making, and deliver tangible ROI.”

Despite its benefits, the survey highlights challenges associated with AI implementation. One in five (18%) respondents reported difficulties due to poor data quality, and 53% stated that having accurate data would improve their trust in AI tools.

Data security and privacy concerns also remain significant. According to the survey, 54% of businesses cited data privacy and security as major obstacles to AI adoption. Among them, 45% expressed concerns about how technology companies use their data, while 17% indicated they do not trust technology companies with their data.

Looking ahead, 72% of small businesses plan to invest at least $1,000 in AI within the next year, with human resources emerging as the top investment area. The survey found that 53% of respondents plan to direct AI investments toward HR functions, including recruiting (44%), onboarding (41%), and employee retention (32%). These findings underscore the growing role of AI in human resources, from talent acquisition to long-term employee development.

The Paychex survey was conducted online between February 7 and 17, 2025, with responses collected from 1,129 business owners and HR leaders. The results were not weighted.

Image: Paychex

This article, "Paychex Survey Finds AI Adoption Gaining Traction Among Small Businesses" was first published on Small Business Trends

Adobe Expands Firefly Services and Custom Models for Scalable Content Production

Adobe has announced new enhancements to Adobe Firefly Services and Firefly Custom Models, aimed at helping businesses meet the rising demand for personalized content across multiple digital platforms. The announcement was made at Adobe Summit, the company’s flagship digital experience conference.

Firefly Services, a suite of generative AI tools for enterprises, now supports video and 3D content, broadening its capabilities in multimedia production. The introduction of Firefly Creative Production provides a no-code interface that automates repetitive content production tasks, streamlining workflows for marketing and creative teams. Additionally, Custom Models now integrate with Adobe GenStudio for Performance Marketing, allowing marketers to scale on-brand content seamlessly.

AI-Powered Tools for Businesses

Adobe states that its innovations are powered by its AI Platform, which brings together AI agents, first-party data insights, commercially safe Firefly models, and secure third-party models. These advancements are designed to unify marketing and creativity, delivering personalized experiences efficiently.

Leading companies, including Accenture, Dentsu, Henkel, IPG Health, Tapestry, Monks, PepsiCo/Gatorade, Publicis, Stagwell, and The Estée Lauder Companies, are already using Adobe Firefly Services and Custom Models to optimize marketing campaigns, accelerate content production, and enhance creative output.

According to Adobe, a Forrester Total Economic Impact Study found that Firefly offerings help enterprises scale asset variant production by 70% to 80%, while reducing the time spent on reviewing and fixing assets by up to 75% over three years.

“Businesses are seeing incredible results by leveraging Adobe Firefly Services and Custom Models to drive a more efficient content supply chain,” said Varun Parmar, general manager, Adobe GenStudio and Firefly Enterprise Solutions. “Generative AI increases the capacity of marketers and creatives, enabling them to focus on what matters most, their craft.”

New Adobe Firefly Services APIs

Adobe also introduced several new APIs designed to improve content creation and management:

• Translate and Lip Sync API (Generally Available): Enables instant translation of spoken dialogue into different languages while maintaining the speaker’s original voice with synchronized lip movement.
• Reframe API (Generally Available): Allows teams to resize videos efficiently for different platforms while ensuring accurate scene edits and seamless logo or image overlays.
• Custom Models API (Generally Available): Integrates custom AI models directly into production workflows to maintain brand consistency in newly created assets.
• Substance 3D API (In Beta): Helps brands generate thousands of product image variations by combining 3D objects with Firefly-generated backgrounds, enhancing e-commerce and digital marketing efforts.

In addition to these API updates, Adobe introduced Firefly Creative Production, a no-code solution that allows marketing teams to automate asset cropping and content personalization, reducing production time and enhancing efficiency.

Custom Models Integration with GenStudio for Performance Marketing

Adobe’s GenStudio for Performance Marketing is now integrated with Custom Models, enabling marketers to access pre-trained models directly within the application. Currently in beta, this feature is designed to streamline the creation of high-quality, on-brand images for paid social ads, banners, emails, and other marketing materials.

Image: Adobe

This article, "Adobe Expands Firefly Services and Custom Models for Scalable Content Production" was first published on Small Business Trends