|
|
 |
| MIDNIGHT OIL |
| EDITION 285 |
|
|
|
|
| Editor’s Note: Thank you for being a valued member of the CO— community! We genuinely appreciate your support and engagement throughout the year, and we’re wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year. We look forward to connecting with you in 2025! |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| A MESSAGE FROM THE U.S. CHAMBER FOUNDATION |
 |
| Small Business Hurricane Recovery Grant Program |
| The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, in collaboration with American Express, has raised over $5 million toward a second round of grants to help support small businesses affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This initiative provides $5,000 grants to 1,000 eligible businesses in the Southeast to support recovery efforts and enhance resilience for future events. Apply now to seize this opportunity to rebuild stronger. |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| CO— EVENTS |
 |
| What you missed at our 2025 Trends event |
As we gear up to welcome 2025, our latest episode of Ready. Set. Scale. dives into the top trends of the consumer that'll make waves in the new year. From omnichannel experiences that bring new opportunities and challenges to the crucial need for data privacy and AI's exciting role in customer service, there's so much to unpack!
In case you missed it, watch the recap for a glimpse into what's next. |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| The percentage of retailers that open pop-up shops and consider them to be a success. Use this guide to plan a pop-up shop that makes your brand stand out. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Looking for unique holiday gifts? Check out these five small businesses offering unusual options that make gift-giving easier and more memorable. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Studies indicate that almost half of employees find leadership communications useful. Here's how to craft an internal comms plan that fosters a unified work culture. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| GRANTS & AWARDS |
The Saltbox Make Ship Happen Grant is offering $5,000 to small business owners to ease the challenges of managing operations during the holidays. This grant provides funding to improve logistics, fulfillment, and overall efficiency during peak season. Applications due December 22.
Skip is helping entrepreneurs end the year on a strong note with its 2024 Year-End Skip $10,000 Grant. The grant is designed to help recipients achieve their goals, whether personal or professional, by providing a meaningful financial boost. Entries are due by December 31.
Brooklyn Brewery is awarding $10,000 grants to celebrate individuals who embody Brooklyn’s creative, entrepreneurial spirit and help bring their visions to life. Five innovators will be awarded across categories including Food & Drink Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Arts, Music, and Activism. Winners will also receive a one-on-one session with their category’s judge and a trip to New York City for an awards ceremony. Applications are open until December 31.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, alongside American Express, has expanded the Small Business Hurricane Recovery program to further support businesses impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. An additional 1,000 small businesses will receive $5,000 grants, thanks to a new $5 million funding initiative. Applications close January 3.
The Big Idea Grant by Yippity Doo offers ambitious women entrepreneurs $1,000 to support their business ventures, along with access to mentorship, resources, and a wealth mindset coaching group. To qualify, applicants must identify as women entrepreneurs with a clear vision for their business. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
More grant & program information can be found here. |
| |
|
|
|
|
 |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| CO- by U.S. Chamber of Commerce 1615 H Street, NW WASHINGTON, DC, 20062, US |
“U.S. Chamber” and “U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE” are registered trademarks
of the Chamber of Commerce of the United States of America |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
