Local Business Grants & Funding: Fifth Third published a step-by-step guide on how to apply for small business grants, stressing eligibility varies and strong proposals plus documentation matter. AI Marketing Pressure: A Central PA digital agency says AI-driven search is shifting the goal from “page one” to being the business AI recommends, so small firms need clear, accurate website and profile info. SMB Tech Tools: Reliable PR & Marketing launched free DIY marketing audit tools for local businesses, targeting common problems like messy listings and weak visibility in AI-assisted discovery. Hospitality Costs & Resilience: Newcastle’s Michelin-star House of Tides is rolling out “After Dark” dining while also warning rising costs and vandalism are hitting small hospitality hard. Local Business Survival Stories: Liverpool’s Lost Soles is closing after eight years, blaming a dying high street and pressure on independents; Gladstone’s Delfab, Inc. also filed for bankruptcy after 23 years, with equipment set for auction. Community Support: A St. Kitts-Nevis ministry launched a financial management training programme for entrepreneurs, with sessions on cash flow, budgeting, record-keeping and planning. Local Policy That Hits SMBs: Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court stormwater ruling could reshape how municipalities charge fees, with potential knock-on effects for businesses and universities. Business Operations Disruption: Thetford Town Council took over nine free-to-use car parks from Breckland Council, aiming to keep decisions local and support nearby businesses.