Running a small business comes with many challenges--and unfortunately, one of them is staying ahead of scammers. While big corporations often make headlines when targeted, it’s small businesses that are the most vulnerable. Why? Because they often lack the resources or internal controls that larger organizations have in place.

Common Scams That Target Small Businesses:

• Phishing Emails: These may look like invoices, vendor communications, or even messages from employees. One click can open the door to malware or data theft.
• Fake Invoices: Scammers send invoices for products or services that were never ordered, hoping a busy team member will pay without checking.
• Directory Scams: Calls or emails claiming to update your business listing--then you get a bill for services you never agreed to.
• Impersonation: Fraudsters pretend to be a CEO, vendor, or customer to request urgent wire transfers or payments.

Why Small Businesses Are at Risk:

• Limited cybersecurity budgets
• Lack of employee training
• Overworked staff more likely to miss red flags
• Trusting culture, especially in tight-knit teams

How to Protect Your Business:

• Educate your team on common scam tactics
• Always verify payment requests, especially those involving urgency or changes in banking info
• Use multi-factor authentication and regularly update passwords
• Work with trusted IT professionals to monitor security

​Staying alert and having internal checks in place can help protect your business--and your reputation--from falling victim to scams. Being small doesn’t have to mean being an easy target.

The Heart of Our Communities ❤️

Every big idea starts small—and this week, we proudly shine a spotlight on the entrepreneurs, dreamers, and doers who make our communities thrive. National Small Business Week is a time to recognize the vital contributions small businesses make to our local economies, job creation, and the character of our towns and cities.

Why Small Businesses Matter
Small businesses aren’t just storefronts or service providers—they're the heart and soul of our neighborhoods. They bring innovation, personalized customer service, and deep-rooted community involvement. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses make up 99.9% of all U.S. businesses and employ nearly half of the nation's private workforce. That's not just impressive—it's essential.

More Than a Business: A Mission
Behind every small business is a story—of passion, persistence, and purpose. Whether it’s the family-run bakery on Main Street, the tech startup launched from a kitchen table, or the local accountant helping other businesses stay afloat, these entrepreneurs take risks, solve problems, and drive progress.

How You Can Celebrate
Here are a few ways to show your support this week:

• Shop local 🛍️ – Choose a small business over a big box store.
• Leave a positive review – A few kind words online can make a big difference.
• Refer a friend – Word of mouth is gold.
• Give them a shoutout – Post on social media about a small business you love.

​A Message to Small Business Owners
To all the small business owners: thank you. Your courage, creativity, and commitment make our communities stronger and more resilient. This week—and every week—we celebrate you.
Keep dreaming big, working hard, and building better. The impact you make is greater than you know.