The Growth of Community and Small Businesses

Community-based small businesses are becoming more prevalent as people move away from urban centers to more suburban or even rural communities. This is partly due to the opportunities these types of businesses offer new entrepreneurs. According to recent data, primary city growth rates have declined in recent years, while suburban growth rates have exceeded those of primary cities as people seek an escape from city-living and are less bound to the geographical region as work-from-home opportunities continue to rise. This is creating an environment in which community-based businesses can thrive.

Some of the businesses benefiting most from this growth include animal care and services, like dog walking and grooming, neighborhood plant nurseries as people continue to beautify their living spaces, wedding businesses to support the industry that had roared back to life as people start planning for pandemic-postponed events, and many others that could prove to be exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs. Plus, many of these community-focused businesses have lower barriers to entry, which means that entrepreneurs without college degrees are able tocan find success and support their communities.

Benefiting from Small Business Growth

These businesses often have lower start-up costs than their urban counterparts, making them more accessible for new entrepreneurs. Small businesses also provide opportunities for people to be their own bosses and create a business tailored to their community’s needs. This is especially important in suburban and rural communities, where residents may have difficulty accessing goods and services that are available in urban areas. They also are incredibly important to the country. Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy and employ 44% of Americans.

this way up stories of ascension

Click to watch, and learn more about a few of the incredible businesses that successfully navigated the pandemic with Ascendus.

castle rose

Adorable and affordable children’s outfits and accessories for any special occasion, all designed in Florida by a Registered Nurse and mother.

fox + kit

A mom-owned children’s boutique based out of Cape Cod, featuring hand-selected organic, recycled, or recyclable clothing and toys.

aneta kidz

Committed to sustainability, Aneta Kidz makes high-quality, 100% organic, and fully hypoallergenic sleepwear for kids.

rideshare

Rideshare Business Term Loan

Loans up to $10,000 in financing for rideshare businesses offered at 9.99%. Qualified Businesses will be in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, or Rhode Island.
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soar

SOAR

The Southern Opportunity And Resilience (SOAR) Fund provides 4% loans up to $100,000 to small businesses and nonprofits to navigate and rebuild from COVID-19. Read More

Childcare Business Development

Childcare is a major growth industry in our community. Despite the need for such services, most childcare providers fail due to their lack of business skills. To address this, WHIDC provides business development services to home- and center-based providers in Upper Manhattan. Read More

Back2Business Grant

The Back2Business program will award up to $10,000 to Black- or minority-owned businesses. In addition, free coaching and education will be provided centered on growth, community development, and creating a sustainable and valuable business. Apply by 12/31. Learn More

TrustPlus- Personal Finance Coaching where and when you need it

One-on-one personal finance coaching is available to you through our partnership with TrustPlus, a national nonprofit with three decades of experience supporting clients on paths to financial health. Read More

BTAD Experienceship

Join a decade-long tradition of brewers helping brewers through the BTAD Brewing and Business Experienceship. Apply by 8/10 to get best-in-class business advice and a full year of mentorship from Sam Adams leaders. Read More

MBF Seminar – Workshop for Small Businesses

Ready to take your business to the next level? Strengthen your skills as an entrepreneur while learning how to raise capital. During 14 sessions you will learn about marketing, sales strategies and plans, accounting, business plans and projections, financial statements, legal and credit considerations, sales, presentations, certifications, technology and more.

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