AI for SMBs: Meta is rolling out “Muse for Small Business,” an AI agent that can connect to tools like Shopify, QuickBooks, Slack, Stripe, Canva and more to help owners pursue goals such as customer growth and revenue. Tax compliance shift: The IRS is tightening 2026 R&D tax credit claims by making Form 6765 Section G mandatory for most filers, requiring project-level reporting up front. Capital access push: Stripe agreed to acquire Parafin to expand embedded credit for small-business customers on major platforms, while Mona raised $3.5M to use AI plus coaching to match SMBs with funding opportunities. Cyber and cost pressure: Security experts warn small businesses are prime cyber targets, and Minnesota households face another round of steep health insurance hikes. Energy affordability: Minnesota’s AG challenged a Xcel–Google data center deal over who pays electricity costs, and South Africa ratepayers are urging NERSA to reject Eskom’s 8.83% increase. Local wins for owners: TELUS’s #StandWithOwners names 2026 winners with $125,000 in funding and tech support; Missouri eased rules for small third-party insurance administrators via audit exemptions. Community events: Lauderdale Lakes is hosting a Carnival Weekend to drive foot traffic to local restaurants and vendors.