Economic Development
15 articles
Rural women entrepreneurs prioritize workforce development over capital
In a surprising turn, a recent National Rural Entrepreneurship Survey revealed that 70% of women-led businesses in rural areas prioritize investing in local workforce training over securing new loans
New Business Incubator Fuels Startup Growth in North Lake Charles
Greater Lake Charles is projected to grow its economy by 3.
Local entrepreneurship initiatives aren't enough for startup growth in 2026.
Mayor Mamdani announced over 50 reforms under the 'OPEN for Small Business' initiative, yet many aspiring entrepreneurs remain ineligible for the most impactful support programs.
Public Grants Boost Growth for New Entrepreneurs
The state of Illinois alone is making $16.9 million available to local businesses through federal grant support, offering a significant opportunity for small businesses to secure non-dilutive capital and accelerate their growth.
What are foundational principles of strong startup communities?
A major pharmaceutical company once set a goal to increase its annual new idea exploration from 15-20 to an ambitious 150-200, according to Strategyzer .
Iowa Launches New Workforce Programs for Advanced Manufacturing Jobs
In Iowa, employers can receive up to $4,000 per employee, covering 80 percent of training costs, through a new state grant for advanced manufacturing skills.
Mass. Life Sciences Job Losses Mount Despite Big Incentive Promises
Seventeen life sciences companies awarded Massachusetts tax incentives to create 426 jobs between 2021 and 2025 collectively added only 41 net new jobs by December 31, 2025, according to Biospace .
Small Business Week Highlights Growth Trends
In 2025, Louisiana's Growth Network programs empowered over 26,000 small businesses to secure a staggering $1.
Joliet Junior College Secures $800K Grant for Future Small Business Training
Joliet Junior College's Entrepreneur & Business Center just secured an $800,000 federal allocation, thanks to U.
Local Small Business Resources Aid Growth in 2026
The city of Vancouver, Washington, is injecting $2.65 million into its small business ecosystem through new loan and grant programs, even as national policies tighten access for some entrepreneurs.
Top 4 Small Business Support Programs for Local Thriving in 2026
The Good Earth Farm in Sioux Falls, after winning a $25,000 prize, projects a 50% revenue increase by building a commercial kitchen, according to SiouxFalls Business .
Rural Entrepreneurship's Unique Edge Over Urban Hubs
While often seen as lagging, rural areas hold a distinct, powerful advantage for new businesses: their unique environmental resources, which can unlock unparalleled local economic potential.
South Korea Unveils Blueprint for Global Startup Ecosystem Dominance
South Korea is engineering startup dominance. The government plans to designate 10 cities as major startup hubs by next year.
Georgiana Local Initiatives Highlight Small Business Resources for Growth
Local governments are actively supporting small businesses with resources like funding, expert consultations, and strategic guidance. These initiatives, exemplified by Georgiana, Alabama, are crucial for transforming business ideas into sustainable enterprises.
New Initiatives Strengthen Startup Ecosystems for Small Business Growth
A wave of new programs and partnerships is strengthening startup ecosystems, offering specialized resources tailored to specific needs of entrepreneurs. These initiatives provide not just funding, but strategic, legal, and marketing support crucial for small business growth.