Blog

This year’s National Small Business Week, from the Small Business Administration (SBA), is certainly going to look different than years’ past. The week celebrates and supports the American small business and its resilience and impacts on our economy. “More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business,” notes the SBA, “andRead more

In an area that was already in need of comprehensive community development, a former service station sat neglected and abandoned. The sagging structure was an eyesore to the neighborhood residents, and the ground beneath was contaminated.  This property, however, was slated to be a first of a first. Located in the first area chosen toRead more

We all face setbacks. It’s a part of life. Setbacks seem to hit differently when it’s your small business. You’ve probably poured your heart and soul into it. How can small business owners, who often have fewer resources and less margin, bounce back from setbacks on the business front?   We know you plan, but oftenRead more

It can be tempting to forgo investing time and money into long-term strategies—especially when the future seems unknowable and prone to sudden change. Implementing long-term strategies sets your business up for success and offers some peace of mind that you will be in a good position even when you do not know how things willRead more

Marketing your small business is important, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. With some time, a little creativity, and the right tools, you can attract and retain customers through low-cost marketing strategies.  Check out these low-cost marketing options for your small business.  Be Searchable Prospective customers use Google searches at different points in theirRead more

With the sudden increase in online activity due to COVID-19, the world is also seeing the spread of another terrible thing: cyberattacks. In recent weeks, reports have shown that many ransomware hackers are taking advantage of public fears surrounding COVID-19, largely by using phishing emails that encourage you to click on an infected link orRead more

While your business could benefit more from debt financing, there are some lenders that would love to take advantage of you and your business. Predatory loans often use unfair and deceptive tactics that mislead borrowers to keep them trapped in debt so the lender can benefit from fines and fees. If you or your businessRead more

Did you know cybersecurity is important for small businesses? It may seem like hackers, malware, and the like are problems for corporations or larger organizations, but in truth, these threats are real for businesses of all sizes. A Quick Definition of Cybersecurity Before we talk about safeguarding your small business, let’s make sure we understandRead more

As an aspiring or current small business owner, you’ve most likely come to realize that you don’t (and can’t) know everything. The potential roadblocks or issues you encounter as a business owner may be brand new to you, but others have already faced and overcome similar challenges.  That’s where mentorship comes into play. A businessRead more

Build Fund understands that many of our clients have been and will continue to be negatively impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak and the associated social distancing measures put in place by state and local government. As a CDFI, we genuinely care about the well-being of your business, your employees, and your community, and we wantRead more