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Inside Xbox, a Game Studio Is Trying to Reinvent Itself
Microsoft’s Obsidian Entertainment is searching for ways to make games more quickly and on smaller budgets.
Millions Of Legal Immigrants Are About to Lose Access To Government Loans for Small Businesses
The Small Business Administration is cutting off lending to any business with any amount of non-citizen ownership, excluding more than 5 million business owners from federal loans.
January Deep Freeze Impacts Small Business Foot Traffic, New Fiserv Data Shows
Fiserv Small Business Index declined 1 point to 143; year-over-year sales grew +0.7% MILWAUKEE, Feb. 03, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fiserv, Inc. (NASDAQ: FISV), a leading global provider of payments and financial services technology, has published the Fiserv Small Business Index for January 2026,
Opinion | We’ve been shoved down. Small business shows how we get back up.
Staring down an existential threat, small Twin Cities businesses like Modern Times and Pho 79 are meeting the moment, Adair Mosley writes.
Opinion: Small choices, local impact: Showing up for Alaska’s small businesses
What empty tables say about the fragile state of Alaska’s small businesses.
SF small business owners file class action lawsuit against PG&E after December outages
The class action lawsuit filed Monday claims the utility caused Sunset District businesses significant financial harm during a series of outages around the holidays.
San Francisco Small Businesses to Sue PG&E Over Losses From December Power Outages
Business owners and residents say the financial credits offered by the utility don’t reflect true financial damages.
SBA bars green card holders from business loan ownership starting March 1
A new Small Business Administration policy taking effect March 1 will bar businesses with any legal permanent resident ownership from receiving SBA-backed loans, reversing longstanding eligibility rules and moving in a direction that lenders say
First Foldable iPhone Design Details Revealed
Apple's first foldable iPhone will feature relocated volume buttons, an all-black camera plateau, a smaller Dynamic Island, and more, according to design leaks from a known Weibo leaker. The user known as "Instant Digital" today claimed to share several key details about the design of the foldable iPhone: The volume buttons will be located on the top edge of the device, aligned to the right, similar to the iPad mini.
U.S. Bank Debuts Small Business-Focused Visa Card
U.S. Bank has introduced a Visa-backed credit card designed for small business owners. The U.S. Bank Business Shield Visa Card, announced Monday (Feb. 2)
Open for Business: Orange County Launches New Business Resource Office
Small business owners and entrepreneurs now have access to a new Orange County resource hub connecting them with programs, tools, financial assistance and training to help them grow and succeed.
Galaxy S27 Ultra Could Feature Samsung’s Polar ID, A More Advanced Version Of Face ID That’s As Fast As Current Solutions While Being 50% Smaller
A proper Face ID competitor is said to be developed by Samsung called Polar ID, and best on the latest information, it could debut with the Galaxy S27 Ultra
TIVER HONORED BY NJ BUSINESS & INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION FOR SUPPORT OF SMALL BUSINESSES
TIVER HONORED BY NJ BUSINESS & INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION FOR SUPPORT OF SMALL BUSINESSES February 2, 2026 Senator Latham Tiver (R-Burlington, Atlantic) was honored by the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) with the Paul L. Troast Award, recognizing his outstanding public service to the business community and strong commitment to improving New Jersey’s[...]
U.S. Bank Business Shield™ Visa® Card Offers Intro 0% APR for up to 18 Billing Cycles
New business credit card offers rewards and access to Spend Management platform to monitor, track, and control spending U.S. Bank, a leading provider of payment services and solutions, today announced a new business credit card designed to help small business owners navigate fluctuations in finances and resources: the U.S. Bank Business Shield™ Visa® Card . The U.S. Bank Business Shield™ Visa® Card offers small business owners a new solution for navigating expected and unexpected expenses. This new business credit card offers a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 billing cycles when applying at any U.S. Bank branch and 12 billing cycles when applying in digital channels – all with no annual fee. Plus, cardholders can enjoy a suite of benefits to help navigate the foreseen - and the unforeseen - needs of their small business. “The Business Shield Visa card is designed to help business owners navigate the unpredictable financial and resource challenges that
Hefty taxes kick back in for small Philly businesses
Many businesses are likely unprepared and unaware they need to start paying the city's Business Income and Receipts Tax.
Small Businesses in Minneapolis Serve a City in Crisis. ‘This Is Our New Normal.’
In Minneapolis and St. Paul, business owners work to lift up a community that has been roiled by the presence of thousands of immigration agents.
Small Businesses in Minneapolis Serve a City in Crisis. ‘This Is Our New Normal.’
In Minneapolis and St. Paul, business owners work to lift up a community that has been roiled by the presence of thousands of immigration agents.
Thieves swipe $50,000 in Seahawks jerseys from Seattle small business
The 2026 Virginia Black Business Leaders Awards
From rebuilding communities in the post–Jim Crow era to leading Fortune 500 companies and public institutions today, Black business leaders have played a central role in shaping Virginia’s modern economy. Today, they are driving growth, innovation and opportunity across the commonwealth — leading major corporations, expanding small businesses, strengthening public institutions and driving progress across […]
Report: Apple 'exploring' clamshell foldable iPhone as potential follow-up model
In today’s Power On newsletter from Mark Gurman, an interesting new possibility was shared for the iPhone lineup: a smaller,...
This tiny pocket-friendly e-reader is packed with frustration and potential
The Xteink X4 is small enough to slip into a shirt pocket.
Deflated: Israeli scientists find Jupiter is smaller than previously thought
Using data from NASA's Juno spacecraft, Weizmann Institute of Science researchers make most precise measurement to date, say the gas giant is thinner and flatter than believed
Trump's failed bid to elevate an Arab American ally shows cracks in his political coalition
Donald Trump credits the mayor of a small Detroit suburb with helping him win over Michigan’s Arab American community during the 2024 presidential campaign
Baby dinosaurs were the backbone of the Jurassic food chain
Despite growing into the largest animals ever to walk on land, sauropods began life small, exposed, and alone. Fossil evidence suggests their babies were frequently eaten by multiple predators, making them a key part of the Jurassic food chain. This steady supply of easy prey may explain why early predators thrived without needing extreme hunting adaptations. The findings offer a rare glimpse into how dinosaur ecosystems truly worked.
Dog Show 101: What to know about the 150th Westminster show
It’s go time for thousands of America’s most dogged competitors. Big or small, sleek or shaggy, they’re all trying for the top prize at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
Water line breaks disrupt small business in Weirton
A major water line break in downtown Weirton has left Blue Cat Coffee struggling with a lack of water pressure and discolored water.Owner Amber Cekus said, "We
Scientists discover how to turn gut bacteria into anti-aging factories
Researchers found that small doses of an antibiotic can coax gut bacteria into producing a life-extending compound. In worms, this led to longer lifespans, while mice showed healthier cholesterol and insulin changes. Because the drug stays in the gut, it avoids toxic side effects. The study points to a new way of promoting health by targeting microbes rather than the body itself.
Lake Shore Bank awards Small Business Recovery grant to WMH
WESTFIELD – Lake Shore Bank has awarded a $5,000 grant to the Westfield Memorial Hospital Foundation through the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Small Business Recovery Grant Program, an initiative designed to support local organizations and economic resilience. The grant will help fund vital equipment, services and resources that benefit patients, families and…
Minority-owned businesses showcased in seventh annual expo at Columbia College
The seventh annual Business Leaders Alliance Cultivating Knowledge expo showcased a variety of local minority-owned small businesses.
Scott Galloway urges Big Tech boycott to influence Trump ICE policies
Small businesses struggled to observe the national shutdown to protest ICE. Here's why a boycott of companies like OpenAI and Amazon could be easier and more effective.
Trump says federal government won’t step into protests in Democratic-led cities ‘until they ask us for help’
President Donald Trump said Saturday that he has instructed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem not to intervene in protests or unrest in Democratic-led cities unless local officials formally request assistance, amid criticism over heavy-handed immigration enforcement tactics used by the feds.
Trump says federal government won’t step into Democratic-led city protests ‘until they ask us for help’
President Donald Trump said Saturday that he has instructed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem not to intervene in protests or unrest in Democratic-led cities unless local officials formally request assistance, while vowing an aggressive federal response to protect government property.
Wisconsin communities invest in sports tourism to grow hosting opportunities
Tournaments and games — large and small — offer tourism sector opportunities. A pair of Green Bay sporting facilities have projects built around expanding tourism.
Wisconsin communities invest in sports tourism to grow hosting opportunities
Tournaments and games — large and small — offer tourism sector opportunities. A pair of Green Bay sporting facilities have projects built around expanding tourism.
TikTok Superstar Khaby Lame’s Big Deal—Which Saw Him Valued At $6.6 Billion—Raises Red Flags, Experts Say
The all-stock transaction revolved around a small Chinese firm with less than $6 million in revenues, which went public just six months ago and saw its stock skyrocket over 650%
USC puts height, rebounding up against smaller Rutgers
Southern California returns home to Los Angeles on Saturday for a Big Ten Conference tilt against a recently sputtering Rutgers squad.
Seattle businesses shutter Friday for nationwide anti-ICE protest
Dozens of Washington small businesses shuttered on Friday in solidarity with Minneapolis and the burgeoning general strike.
Let ABC15 Know helps local business stuck in 'Google jail' after 40 days.
A Surprise small business owner says his company was shut out of Google's platform for over a month, and he couldn't get a clear explanation why.
Scanlon’s campaign, Bronin endorsement: CT Politics news
Plus: Updates on the Connecticut Education Issues Summit, the Council of Small Towns, and the Planning and Development Committee.
4 of the best crowdfunding platforms for businesses
Crowdfunding platforms let large pools of people pledge small amounts of money to help you reach a fundraising goal.
Some small businesses say they can't close for anti-ICE protests
In protest of ICE, the National Shutdown on Jan. 30 encourages supporters to not work, attend school or shop.
January 30, 2026
A flu variant called subclade K emerged too late to be fully covered by this year’s vaccine. But the flu shot can still help protect you. Plus, a new study suggests dogs began to diversify about 11,000 years earlier than we thought. And, in turbulent times, it helps to hear stories of resilience. What can we learn from 3.5 billion-year-old bacteria that eat light?
‘ICE Out’ national event leads to protests, small business closures across Vermont
At least 15 small businesses closed Friday as part of a national movement in response to immigrant enforcement actions in Minneapolis.
CHANCELL-ING: UC Davis AI Research is Transforming Health Care
Imagine this scenario: Doctors know a small number of patients will face life-threatening complications after an illness, but they need to scan millions of records to identify the patients in need of intervention. It’s a task that would consume weeks and keep practitioners from other care needs.
Why some Greater Cincinnati businesses are taking part in national ‘ICE out’ strike
Multiple small businesses in Greater Cincinnati are participating in a national strike in response to the ongoing conflict involving Immigrations and Customs Enforcement operations.
Local Small Business Owner Opens Pak Mail Inside of His Existing Accounting Business in Springville, Alabama--Offering Shipping and Office Services
Annex Brands, Inc., one of the leading franchisors in the packing, shipping and office services industries, is excited to announce the opening of its newest Pak Mail location inside of Chapman Accounting Solutions in Springville, AL to new owner, Edward Chapman. This new Pak Mail is set to offer a wide range of essential shipping and office services to the local community, making it easier to provide more service to more people in more places.
Here’s how Baton Rouge’s casinos fared in December
After two strong months in October and November, Baton Rouge’s casinos continued their upward trajectory in December. Collectively, the casinos posted $25.7 million in revenue for December, u… Already an INSIDER? Sign in. Already an INSIDER? Sign in
NC State downs Boston College, 106-84
Normally you might have to worry a little bit if you give up 16 made threes, but not so on Thursday night, as not even a ridiculously above-average shooting performance from Boston College could keep the Eagles close. NC State’s offense was relentless thanks to standout performances from Zoe Brooks, Tilda Trygger, Khamil Pierre, and […]
Winter weather hits local businesses hard as snow forces closures
Local business owners are grappling with the financial strain of consecutive winter weather weekends, with closures significantly impacting service industry employees and small retailers.
Chicago small business owner says she lost over $8K to fraud, bank held her responsible
A small business owner in Chicago says thousands of dollars were stolen from her bank account.
Back to business: Local shops, restaurants come back to life after snowstorm
Small business owners say they’ve weathered a storm that left 10 or more inches of snow on downtown streets this week. It took a mix of snow shovel handiwork, municipal plow trucks and private contractors with backhoes and tri-axle dump trucks to bring business districts back to life. “This storm
CBIA spotlights affordability, workforce ahead of legislative session
Connecticut’s largest business association laid out a policy agenda Thursday that addresses the needs of the state’s small businesses.
6 Tactics Black Businesses Can Apply To Spur Revenue Growth In A Post-DEI World
Starting roughly a year ago, DEI rollbacks have meant $217 million in lost federal contracts to small businesses, including Black-owned ones.
I built marshmallow castles in Google’s new AI world generator
Starting Thursday, Google AI Ultra subscribers in the U.S. can play around with Project Genie, which is powered by a combination of Google’s latest world model Genie 3, its image generation model Nano Banana Pro, and Gemini.
AirTag 1 vs. AirTag 2 Buyer's Guide: All 15+ Differences Compared
Apple's new AirTag introduces a series of small improvements, so how does it compare to the original model from 2021? The second-generation...
Fans excited for Nintendo's upcoming Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream left completely baffled by "wacky" image sharing restrictions
Nintendo has implemented restrictions to how you can share images in Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream.
SEC.gov | 45th Annual Small Business Forum
The SEC will host its annual Small Business Forum to discuss capital formation for small businesses.
Small Business Promotion Week: WashSmart Laundry
You won’t find any coins at this laundromat. WashSmart Laundry in North Arlington prides themselves not only on being coinless, but they also offer the latest high-powered, energy-efficient washers and dryers that not only clean faster but leave clothes “feeling softer.”
Scientists found a way to cool quantum computers using noise
Quantum computers need extreme cold to work, but the very systems that keep them cold also create noise that can destroy fragile quantum information. Scientists in Sweden have now flipped that problem on its head by building a tiny quantum refrigerator that actually uses noise to drive cooling instead of fighting it. By carefully steering heat at unimaginably small scales, the device can act as a refrigerator, heat engine, or energy amplifier inside quantum circuits.
Minnesota women business leaders respond to big company CEOs
In today's North Star Insider: The small business response to big company CEOs; First Ave.'s plea to music industry, and Travis Kelce invests in Sleep Number.
Friends talk politics for the first time: Alondra and Bailey take One Small Step
Alondra Rivas-Jimenez, 20, and Bailey Newcomb, 21, met in the spring of 2024 while interning at an advertising agency and built a friendship. The two sat down to talk politics for the first time in their friendship.
Small businesses in Portland, Maine, navigate ICE protest challenges
Some small-business owners in Portland, Maine, are debating how best to support staff and customers amid a federal immigration crackdown.
SBA programs for native businesses face scrutiny
The Native Hawaiian Organizations Association is urging President Donald Trump’s administration to distinguish between “isolated allegations” about the Small Business Administration’s program aimed at developing native-run businesses and its success expanding economic opportunity, as U.S. Rep. Ed Case calls for a formal review.
Minneapolis small business supports strike against ICE, raises money
ICE activity and tariffs are making for an especially tough month for Perennial Cycle in Minneapolis. The owner is focusing on the community.
Tiny mammals are sending warning signs scientists can finally read
Small mammals are early warning systems for environmental damage, but many species look almost identical, making them hard to track. Scientists have developed a new footprint-based method that can tell apart nearly indistinguishable species with remarkable accuracy. Tested on two types of sengi, the system correctly identified them up to 96% of the time. It offers a simple, ethical way to monitor ecosystems before they quietly unravel.
Martens are focus of Yampatika community science program
Pacific martens are the focus of a community science program being offered by the local nonprofit Yampatika. “Caught on Camera: Using Trail Cams for Science” will teach attendees about the elusive Pacific marten, a small,...
The Alliance for Primary Health Care in the Americas marks two years and formally welcomes Bolivia and Uruguay as members
PAHO, the World Bank, and the IDB initiative has driven health system transformation and aligned more than one billion dollars in investments across five countries. Brazil expressed its support, signing a letter of intent.Rio de Janeiro, 28 January 2026 — The Alliance for Primary Health Care (PHC) in the Americas, a joint initiative of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the World Bank (WB), and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), is celebrating its second anniversary with achievements in transforming health systems across the region.
Minn. companies pool funds to help small businesses amidst immigration enforcement surge
A couple dozen Minnesota companies have contributed about $4 million to a grant fund to support small businesses in the state as they navigate the challenges of meeting payroll and paying rent amidst the immigration enforcement surge.
ICE presence threatens small business in Minneapolis and Minnesota, some owners say: 'I can hardly do my normal job'
Some Minneapolis small-business owners say they fear for their personal safety, their community's safety and their businesses' survival amid ICE's presence in the city.
What we're learning about the man arrested in the attack on Rep. Ilhan Omar
Anthony Kazmierczak hadn't been formally charged or scheduled for an initial court appearance as of Wednesday morning.
Google confirms ‘Take a Message’ microphone bug, disabling on old Pixel phones
For a small number of users, the Pixel Phone app’s “Take a Message” feature inadvertently sent audio to the caller...
Economic Forecast 2026: Key Opportunities For Small Business
Small businesses face cost pressures and uncertainty in 2026, but untapped pricing power and greater agility than large competitors offer paths to stronger growth
AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D Review - The Best Just Got Better
The AMD Ryzen 9850X3D builds on the already excellent 9800X3D without trying to shake up the market. Instead, it focuses on refining what already works. AMD delivers modest improvements with smarter tuning, and the same cache magic that gamers love. Thanks to a reasonable price increase, this processor will be a no-brainer pick for future high-end gaming rigs.
Recognize Data Privacy Day by protecting your small business from cybercriminals
Your small business likely has had many milestones. Hiring your first employee. Opening your doors for the first time. Making your first sale. But some milestones you’d probably rather avoid — like experiencing your first cyberattack. Think you’re too small to target? Think again. Cybercriminals target companies big and small, so this Data Privacy Day keep your business’s data (and your customers’ data) safe by reviewing the FTC’s updated resources at ftc.gov/cybersecurity.
On Data Privacy Day (and every day): Protect your small business
Cybercriminals target companies big and small. Today is Data Privacy Day — a great opportunity to take a look at how you keep your business and customer data protected. Get started with the FTC’s updated resources at ftc.gov/cybersecurity.
FreshBooks 2025 Ontario Small Business Snapshot: Owners More Reserved Than U.S. Peers, but Most Say Their Businesses Are Stable
Ontario survey data shows lower optimism and higher interest-rate sensitivity than U.S. counterparts, while operating conditions stay steady for most businessesTORONTO, Jan. 28, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ontario small business owners are entering 2026 with a more reserved outlook than their U.S. counterparts, reflected in lower economic optimism, softer financial sentiment, and greater sensitivity to interest rates, according to a new Ontario snapshot from FreshBooks’ 2025 State of Small Business
Parents of child who scootered alone for 4 minutes ruled neglectful
Mallerie Shirley and her husband were found to be neglectful of their 6-year-old after letting him scooter to a park alone.
Scientists say these two viruses may become the next public health threats
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Two emerging pathogens with animal origins — influenza D virus and canine coronavirus — have so far been quietly flying under the radar,…
Historic $300-billion wave of business acquisitions set to reshape Canada’s economy: BDC study
Key findings: 61% of small- and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are led by owners aged 50+; nearly one in five plan to exit within five yearsCompanies that acquire other businesses earn four times the profits of non-acquirersFor every 10 buyers, only seven are sellers—competition for strong businesses is fierce MONTREAL, Jan. 28, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canada’s business landscape is on the brink of a major transformation. A new study by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) reveals thou
'Ready to get out of the house': Businesses reopen after ice storm forces closures
As the ice over Central Texas continued to melt on Tuesday, Austin's small businesses slowly started to open back up.At Sour Duck Market in East Austin, the fre
Minnesota companies fund $3.5M in grants to help small businesses during ICE surge
The nonprofit Minneapolis Foundation will distribute money to help local businesses make payroll, pay rent and cover other costs. Companies like Target, General Mills and Ecolab contributed.
City council approves $15.5M to support Asheville small businesses
Asheville City Council approved $15.5 million to support the city’s Small Business Support Program (SBSP).
Asheville City Council approves $15.5M in funding for Small Business Support Program - The City of Asheville
In an important next step for small business recovery following Tropical Storm Helene, the Asheville City Council approved a $15.5 million funding recommendation on Tuesday, January 27, to support the City’s Small Business Support Program (SBSP), funded through the Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program.
Entertainment lawyer Dina LaPolt on fame, sobriety and her new memoir
New Paltz native Dina LaPolt reflects on growing up gay in a small town, conquering addiction and building a top-tier firm in a new memoir.
First Las Vegas, now Maryland. What is driving the Sphere expansion?
Northeastern University professor Andrew Mall said much of the Sphere’s success has to do with the novelty factor.
2 small business credit card perks to help you save money this year, and the cards that offer them
Look for statement credits and targeted rewards designed specifically for your business needs.
What every new business needs to know about compliance
Hiring your first employee can feel like stepping into a whole new world, especially when taxes, worker classification and payroll feel unfamiliar. In this episode of Small Business Smarts, we explore what new business owners need to know to stay compliant from day one. For more information, visit ADP.com/SPARK
ZOTAC Korea warns of steep RTX 5090 and RTX 5060 price hikes, says some models may be unavailable for a while
ZOTAC Korea warns RTX 5090 and RTX 5060 prices are set to jump ZOTAC Korea has published a new notice on its official TagTag Mall account, warning that
US health insurers slump after 2027 Medicare Advantage payments proposal disappoints
Shares of health insurers tumbled in premarket trading on Tuesday after the Trump administration proposed a smaller-than-expected increase to next year's Medicare Advantage plans.
When might Asheville's post-Helene small business program begin?
Asheville's post-Helene Small Business Support Program could take its next step with the selection of organizations to administer local grants.
You Wouldn’t Want to Butt Heads With This Small Dinosaur
A newly discovered raptor had a knobby bump on its head, suggesting that, like some larger dinosaurs, it engaged in competitive head bashing.
Who really pays for business tax cuts in New Hampshire?
Earlier this month, the New Hampshire House passed what looks like a tiny change: a 0.05 percentage point cut to the Business Enterprise Tax. But this small number masks big consequences.
SellYourWay.org Publishes a New White Paper on the Role of Seller Financing in Closing Small Business Sales
Today, SellYourWay.org, a website dedicated to the education of small business owners, is pleased to announce the release of a new, in-depth white paper titled, The Role of Seller Financing in Closing Deals. Lauren Drummond Dale, MCBI, shares expert insights on what seller financing is, how frequently it is used and what small business owners should know before selling their businesses. Ms. Dale is Principal and M&A Advisor at Coastal Consultants, LLC. SellYourWay.org is powered by the Internati
Tom Brady’s biggest broadcasting flaw revealed
Just a small flaw according to one NFL analyst.
Apple updates iOS 12 to extend support on older devices
Apple has released iOS 12.5.8 for a small group of older devices, to make sure they can continue using FaceTime and iMessage.
Scientists finally explain Earth’s strangest fossils
The Ediacara Biota are some of the strangest fossils ever found—soft-bodied organisms preserved in remarkable detail where preservation shouldn’t be possible. Scientists now think their survival in sandstone came from unusual ancient seawater chemistry that created clay “cements” around their bodies after burial. This process captured delicate shapes that would normally vanish. The finding helps clarify how complex life emerged before the Cambrian Explosion.
Freezing temperatures force San Antonio farmers’ markets to close, impacting small businesses
Freezing temperatures and harsh winter weather over the weekend forced farmers’ markets across San Antonio to shut down, cutting off a key source of income for many small businesses, especially vendors who rely on busy Saturday and Sunday crowds.
Providers say feds’ new rural health care grants to Illinois won’t cover Medicaid cuts
State received second-smallest grant among neighboring states.
In downtown Wilmington, Live Oak shutting down inclusive small business center
Live Oak Bank is turning Channel off. Described by Live Oak as an inclusive small business center, Channel opened in November 2021 to serve as a free resource for small business owners, helping numerous minority-owned and other small businesses from its headquarters downtown at 106 Market St. "After careful consideration, we’ve decided to bring Channel ... to a close at the end of this month. Live Oak determined that the needs of Wilmington’s small business community have evolved. Since Channel opened, the local small business ecosystem has grown significantly, with many strong organizations now offering education, technical assistance and community programming for entrepreneurs," stated Claire Parker, managing director of corporate communications for Live Oak Bank, in an email Monday. "With those resources firmly in place, Live Oak is refocusing on what we do best – providing banking and financing solutions that help small businesses grow and thrive." Channel's demise also resulted in the elimination of two positions – those of Channel's director, Chakema Clinton-Quintana, and Atiba Johnson, the certified professional business advisor (CPBA) at Channel. On Monday, Clinton-Quintana, who was elected to the Wilmington City Council in November, said of her immediate plans after Channel: "I will continue my work serving the public while I look for other full-time opportunities." She said Channel "served over 1,000 small business owners in the greater Wilmington area, as well as some of the surrounding areas, such as Brunswick and Pender. A lot of folks had reached out to us needing those resources because they were free, and we were able to assist them in that capacity." Johnson said he will be devoting his time to the Wilmington Minority Chamber of Commerce, which is not affiliated with the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce. The minority chamber is celebrating its launch from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Wilmington Sportsman Club, 1111 Castle St., Wilmington. Johnson, the founder and executive director of the new chamber, said about 50 businesses are on board to join the Wilmington Minority Chamber of Commerce. According to a news release, the new chamber "was established to foster growth, networking, and advocacy for underrepresented business owners. By providing essential resources and community engagement, the chamber aims to build a more inclusive and prosperous local economy." Johnson said the creation of the new chamber is in response to "lapses in funding, education, advocacy for minority businesses...Some of the things that are going on now just don't reach all the way down to those businesses." For Lynne Jones, owner of LJ Design Studio LLC, the loss of Channel also means a reduction in income. She had contracted with Channel to run the center's social media and to provide some marketing for small business owners. "It's pretty disappointing to hear that it is closing...it was a place to connect with other small business owners and collaborate. It was like a family for those of us who were there. If you had issues or things that you needed to talk through concerning your business, there was always someone there that you could sit down with and talk things through, recalibrate, and they set you off on your way to make that pivot and move in a different direction," Jones said Monday. She said she worked with many Channel participants creating their websites and will miss seeing the joy on their faces when those websites were up and running. Dawn McDowell, owner of Creatively Covered Co. LLC, credits Channel with helping her business grow and regrow after her social media pages were hacked and shut down in 2023. "Channel was a great resource for small businesses, for women-owned businesses, for minority-owned businesses; they provided a lot of assistance, especially when you needed it," McDowell said. "If it wasn't for Channel, I don't know if I'd be where I am now, in my business, and regrowing my business and even finding out about some of the certifications and things that were out there for small businesses that I just didn't know about ... because there was no one really sharing that information for small businesses, for minority- and women-owned businesses in particular." Parker said shutting down Channel was not part of an overall cost-cutting plan. She stated in the email, "Live Oak’s commitment to Wilmington remains strong. We are continuing to support entrepreneurs by focusing our efforts where we deliver the greatest value – through specialized banking and financing solutions aligned with our mission to be America’s small business bank." As for Channel's downtown office, Live Oak had leased the 5,000-square-foot space above Seabird restaurant in 2021. The bank’s lease for the office is up in March, Parker said.