Minnesota Businesses See Major Benefits From 20% Small Business Tax Deduction
The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), a small business advocacy organization, just released a new report outlining the economic benefits and massive tax savings the 20% Small Business Tax Deduction will bring to the 560,428 small businesses in Minnesota now that it has been made permanent.
What Tax Refund Season Reveals About the New BNPL Shopper
Many consumers are using their tax refunds to stabilize their finances, catch up on obligations or reset after months of elevated costs. In that context, BNPL is no longer just a checkout option. For many shoppers, BNPL has quietly moved into everyday money management.
Spirit of Success: Inside Katey “Bunny” Rafanello’s Rise to Industry Influence
March is a time to honor the architects of change, the women who looked at "the way things are" and decided to build something better. In the male-dominated world of beverage alcohol, few people embody that spirit of architectural rebellion quite like Katey “Bunny” Rafanello.
A Growing Consumer Interest in Thrift Shops and Craft Stores
As consumers spend more time online and engaging with Artificial Intelligence (AI), many are actively seeking out shopping experiences that feel more human, tactile and personal. In particular, thrift and arts and crafts stores are gaining traction due to the tactile, treasure-hunt shopping experience they offer.
Small Businesses Plan to Increase Marketing Budgets in 2026
A new Constant Contact report found that small business owners are meeting economic headwinds with aggression rather than retraction. While inflation and rising costs remain the top business concern for 41% of owners, the vast majority are planning to invest significantly more resources into their marketing efforts to secure growth.
House Bill to Help Small Businesses Adopt AI Technologies
In late January, the House passed a bill that would direct the SBA to provide education and support to small businesses to help them adopt AI technologies. Put together by Congressman Troy Downing (MT-02) H.R. 5784, the AI-WISE Act received overwhelming bipartisan support.
How Economic Uncertainty Is Reshaping What (and Where) Consumers Buy in 2026
The impact of inflation, high interest rates and global supply chain disruptions is still fresh for consumers, influencing what they buy, how they purchase and where they shop. Considering these factors can inform retailers about pricing, channels and potential collaboration.
Valentine’s Day Spending Expected to Reach New Records
Consumer spending on Valentine’s Day is expected to reach a record $29.1 billion, according to the annual survey released by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics. The amount surpasses the previous record of $27.5 billion in 2025.
December Saw Strong Holiday Season Spending
December Retail Monitor data saw a sharp surge in growth as consumers continued prioritizing holiday spending on family and friends.
The Role of Print Media in a Digital-First World
In an era where screens dominate nearly every waking hour, it’s tempting to assume that print media has quietly shuffled off into the archive room, somewhere between the fax machine and the Rolodex. But it hasn’t disappeared, it has simply evolved, narrowed its focus, and in many ways become more powerful precisely because it is no longer everywhere.
