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Unwrap business lessons from Hallmark Christmas movies

December 20, 2024

MIDNIGHT OIL

EDITION 285

Editor’s Note: Thank you for being a valued member of the CO— community! We genuinely appreciate your support and engagement throughout the year, and we’re wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year. We look forward to connecting with you in 2025!

RESOURCES & TIPS

Get tips for finding Hallmark movies that can teach you how to become a better small business owner this holiday season.

How Hallmark's holiday hits can inspire entrepreneurs

This holiday season, cozy up to a Hallmark Christmas movie — you may learn a few things! We've compiled 19 essential business lessons inspired by Hallmark’s beloved films, designed to spark inspiration and make your entrepreneurial journey just a bit more merry.

Expert-backed holiday anti-theft strategies

The holiday season is a wonderful time for retailers, but it also brings the challenge of increased shoplifting as crowds gather in stores. From adjusting the store layout to leveraging new technologies, implement these expert strategies to create a safer shopping environment and protect your business from theft.

Get ahead of tax season with these AI shortcuts & prompts

Discover how leveraging artificial intelligence for tax preparation can benefit small business owners during tax season. Learn about the current limitations, and try some helpful prompts and shortcuts to make the process even easier.

A MESSAGE FROM THE U.S. CHAMBER FOUNDATION

If your business was affected by Hirricanes Helene or Milton, you may be eligible for relief. Learn more about the Small Business Hurricane Recovery Grant Program.

Small Business Hurricane Recovery Grant Program

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, in collaboration with American Express, has raised over $5 million toward a second round of grants to help support small businesses affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This initiative provides $5,000 grants to 1,000 eligible businesses in the Southeast to support recovery efforts and enhance resilience for future events. Apply now to seize this opportunity to rebuild stronger.

Learn More

QUOTABLE MOMENT

“Your business isn't just about transactions — it's about transformation. When everyone understands and connects with your larger purpose, they become emotionally invested in your success.”

— Mark Van Wye, CEO of Zoom Room, encourages business owners to define a purpose that resonates with employees and customers alike to transform into a space of shared values and emotional investment.

CO— EVENTS

Watch the recap of our latest episode of Ready. Set. Scale. to here what experts say will boost business in 2025.

What you missed at our 2025 Trends event

As we gear up to welcome 2025, our latest episode of Ready. Set. Scale. dives into the top trends of the consumer that'll make waves in the new year. From omnichannel experiences that bring new opportunities and challenges to the crucial need for data privacy and AI's exciting role in customer service, there's so much to unpack!
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In case you missed it, watch the recap for a glimpse into what's next.

WATCH THE REPLAY

BY THE NUMBERS

80%

The percentage of retailers that open pop-up shops and consider them to be a success. Use this guide to plan a pop-up shop that makes your brand stand out.

Looking for unique holiday gifts? Check out these five small businesses offering unusual options that make gift-giving easier and more memorable.

45%

Studies indicate that almost half of employees find leadership communications useful. Here's how to craft an internal comms plan that fosters a unified work culture.

GRANTS & AWARDS

The Saltbox Make Ship Happen Grant is offering $5,000 to small business owners to ease the challenges of managing operations during the holidays. This grant provides funding to improve logistics, fulfillment, and overall efficiency during peak season. Applications due December 22.
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Skip is helping entrepreneurs end the year on a strong note with its 2024 Year-End Skip $10,000 Grant. The grant is designed to help recipients achieve their goals, whether personal or professional, by providing a meaningful financial boost. Entries are due by December 31.
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Brooklyn Brewery is awarding $10,000 grants to celebrate individuals who embody Brooklyn’s creative, entrepreneurial spirit and help bring their visions to life. Five innovators will be awarded across categories including Food & Drink Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Arts, Music, and Activism. Winners will also receive a one-on-one session with their category’s judge and a trip to New York City for an awards ceremony. Applications are open until December 31.
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The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, alongside American Express, has expanded the Small Business Hurricane Recovery program to further support businesses impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. An additional 1,000 small businesses will receive $5,000 grants, thanks to a new $5 million funding initiative. Applications close January 3.
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The Big Idea Grant by Yippity Doo offers ambitious women entrepreneurs $1,000 to support their business ventures, along with access to mentorship, resources, and a wealth mindset coaching group. To qualify, applicants must identify as women entrepreneurs with a clear vision for their business. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
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More grant & program information can be found here.