Quarterly Articles & Economic Scene
Economic Scene
1 Million Cups West Volusia Launches Jan. 7
December 31, 2025
Every Wednesday morning, 1 Million Cups (1MC) communities across the country gather to support, encourage, and provide constructive feedback to local entrepreneurs—over a simple cup of coffee.
Award Programs
SBA Seeking Nominations for National Small Business Awards – Deadline extended
December 17, 2025
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) seeks nominations for the 2026 National Small Business Week Awards. National Small Business Week recognizes the contributions of America’s 36 million small businesses – which make up 99% of all businesses in America, create two out of every three new jobs, and employ about half of America’s workforce.
Business News & Resources
Small Business Update: Preparing for 2026 and Beyond
December 17, 2025
From tariffs and tax changes to hiring, AI and insurance costs, watch this video recap from U.S. Chamber of Commerce Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley, who shares what small businesses need to know heading into 2026.
Entrepreneur Resources
Give Yourself the Gift of Possibilities in the New Year!
December 17, 2025
Grants & Funding
Amex Shop Small Grants Program
December 17, 2025
To help small businesses grow and innovate, American Express (Amex) is teaming up with Main Street America to launch the Amex Shop Small Grants Program. The program will provide an initial $5 million to fund 250 grants of $20,000 each to eligible small business owners across the U.S.
Business News & Resources
Seeking Assistance with Permitting, Code Requirements or Other County Services? Contact Your Ombudsman and Permit Concierge
December 11, 2025
Volusia County’s Ombudsman and Permit and Code Concierge Service provides residents and business owners with personalized service and a dedicated liaison to assist with their permitting and code needs.
Grants & Funding
Acuity Business Pass Program Seminar: Side Hustles that Work!
December 11, 2025
The next Acuity Business Pass seminar will explore side hustle opportunities that many people overlook when trying to add to their main income source (their job).
Grants & Funding
SBA Relief Available to Florida Small Businesses and Nonprofits Affected by Drought
December 11, 2025
The Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit organizations (PNPs) in Florida of the Jan. 5, 2026, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought occurring around April 22, 2025.
Economic Scene
Growth Grants Offered by the National Association for the Self-Employed
December 11, 2025
Since 2006, the National Association of Self-Employed (NASE) has awarded nearly $1 million to its members through the Growth Grants program through small business grants.
Grants & Funding
WomensNet Grant for Women-Owned Fashion or Interior Design Businesses
December 05, 2025
For the month of December, WomensNet is offering its monthly business specific $10,000 grant for women business owners in the fashion and interior design industries.
