SME Funding: Greater Milwaukee Foundation opened applications for its 2026 ThriveOn Small Business Loans, offering up to $50,000 at a 3% fixed rate over seven years, plus required monthly coaching, with priority for disadvantaged businesses. Local Business & Reputation: A Waukesha restaurant says it never agreed to host a “Meet the Candidate” event after an online inquiry was misunderstood and later promoted on Facebook. Marketing Tools for SMBs: SeoSamba launched LocalEko, a done-for-you local marketing automation engine aimed at small businesses, franchisees, and multi-location brands. Payments & Cash Flow: Bermuda’s Working On It app targets merchant card fees by letting entrepreneurs accept payments quickly and get weekly payouts. Main Street Grants: Maryland announced nearly $1M in 2027 Main Street Improvement Program grants across 34 local programs to boost downtown foot traffic and business support. Workforce Pressure: NFIB survey finds many small employers struggle to find qualified workers, with immigration limits and skills mismatch cited. Policy & Compliance: Liberia outlined WIPO-linked intellectual property reforms meant to expand support for entrepreneurs and strengthen protections for creators. Tech & AI in Politics: Minnesota election coverage highlights rising AI use in campaigns and the legal fight over political deepfakes. SME Growth via Quality Access: India’s QCI and NSIC signed a five-year MoU to help MSMEs adopt quality systems and reach markets through certification and digital onboarding. Small Business Survival: Mill Hall Pharmacy announced it will close permanently July 28, with prescriptions transferring to CVS.