Small Business

</div >   by Jackie Navarrete Running a small business isn’t for the faint of heart—especially in 2025. Between rising operational costs, labor shortages, and the constant race to keep up with technology, every dollar you spend has to do some serious heavy lifting. That’s why smart investing isn’t just a good idea—it’s survival. But … Read more

Every successful business starts with a dream. Sometimes that dream is born in a basement or garage, fueled by grit, late nights, and a whole lot of coffee. These are the stories that remind us why we believe in small business—and why we work so hard to support them at VMS. Whether it’s a corner … Read more

Let’s be honest—just hearing the word recession can send a chill down any business owner’s spine. Sales drop, consumers get cautious, and suddenly you’re watching every penny like it’s your last. But here’s a truth most headlines won’t tell you: some of the strongest small businesses are born during recessions. So how does your business … Read more

Ask any business owner what happens when they open a second location, and you’ll get the same answer: It’s a different ballgame. Your time gets stretched, employees need more oversight, inventory control becomes a headache, and suddenly, those healthy margins from your first store start looking a little… thinner. Beyond these initial hurdles, the challenges … Read more

Small Business Week is here! From May 5-11, 2025, we celebrate the entrepreneurs who shape our communities and drive the U.S. economy forward. Small businesses are the backbone of our country, making up 99.9% of all U.S. businesses and employing 45.9% of the American workforce—about 59 million people. Small Business Week serves as a reminder … Read more

So, you’re starting a business. Maybe it’s a bakery, a real estate investment, a side hustle—or all three. But here’s a question that stops many new entrepreneurs in their tracks: What type of LLC should I form? Most people know that an LLC is a business entity that combines features of a corporation and a … Read more

  by Grace Barone Navigating the complexities of a commercial lease can be daunting, especially for small business owners. Securing the right space is critical to your business’s success, but the terms of the lease can significantly impact your bottom line. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you negotiate a commercial lease effectively. Understand Your … Read more