Rising Health Care Costs Challenge New Hampshire’s Businesses
Local employers are feeling the strain of rising health care costs, and the ripple effects are touching every corner of New Hampshire’s economy. That was the central message of the 2025 Health Care Costs and the Local Economy forum, hosted by the Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce (EACC) in partnership with the New Hampshire Health Cost Initiative (NHHCI) on November 7th at the Seacoast School of Technology. The event brought together business leaders, policymakers, and health care experts to discuss the
Importance of Setting Goals and Milestones to Guide Your First Year in Business
Starting your first year in business is both exciting and daunting. The difference between surviving and thriving often comes down to how well you set goals and milestones. By establishing a clear roadmap, you not only track progress but also ensure your time and resources are directed toward sustainable growth. Why Milestones Matter Milestones are checkpoints that help measure progress. Instead of chasing vague goals like “grow sales,” you can break them into concrete actions such as “secure 10 new
Opening an Auto Repair Shop: Costs, Licenses, and Setup Tips
Opening your own auto repair shop is a powerful leap—from turning wrenches for someone else to building a business with your name on it. Whether you're a seasoned technician or transitioning from a related field, this guide walks you through the key requirements, paperwork, setup steps, and tech tools that can simplify the journey. 1. What Kind of Auto Repair Shop Will You Run? Before investing in equipment or signing a lease, define your shop type: General Auto Repair (cars, trucks,
Framing the Future: How Visual Storytelling Moves Small Businesses Forward
The small business landscape has never been more saturated, and in that noise, attention has become currency. With limited budgets and fierce competition, entrepreneurs often face a difficult question: how do you get someone to care? The answer, increasingly, lies not in more ads or clever slogans, but in better stories—ones told through images, colors, movement, and mood. Visual storytelling isn't just a marketing buzzword; it’s a strategy that levels the playing field for businesses that can’t outspend
The Media Kit Isn’t Dead, You’re Just Using It Wrong
Before people believe in your product, they have to believe your story. That’s where a media kit kicks in—not as a press release replacement, but as a strategic, high-caliber handshake. It’s not a formality or a folder of fluff. It’s the clearest, cleanest way to show you’re ready for the spotlight and capable of owning it. Companies that treat media kits as an afterthought often miss the critical opportunity to shape perception before a single article gets written or a mic gets turned on. A Portal to
Financial Planning Made Simple for Aspiring Business Owners
The journey of entrepreneurship brings both excitement and challenges. For a new business owner, building a strong financial base is essential for stability and growth. Thoughtful decisions around structure, financial management, and legal responsibilities play a crucial role in shaping the business's future. Every choice influences how the business develops and sustains itself over time. With strategic planning and careful financial practices, a new venture can build a lasting foundation for
