AI Lending & Trust: Alternative lenders are using AI to speed decisions from weeks to hours, but the next battleground is what AI can’t automate: trust and post-funding support. Tech Policy & Privacy: Microsoft is rolling out new in-meeting controls in Teams so organizers can toggle AI features like Copilot/Recap—an apparent response to user backlash over privacy. Digital Marketing for SMBs: Instagram posts can now show up in Google search and, crucially, creators can measure search queries via Search Console—turning social into a trackable SEO channel. SME Support Funding: Delaware launched a $4.5M Commercial Corridor Initiative to help brick-and-mortar small businesses upgrade storefronts and operations. Disaster Recovery Grants: Hawaii County opened a Kona Low Business Recovery Grant Program with up to $10,000 per business (deadline Aug. 31). Energy & Jobs: Montana’s Unleashing American-Made Energy Task Force is preparing recommendations aimed at expanding reliable, affordable power supply. Local Business Resilience: A Central Kansas family fireworks business celebrated 56 years with a Chamber ribbon cutting, highlighting long-term community ties as a growth strategy. SMB Cost Pressure: A bakery chain (Franzeluța) reported revenue growth but a 57% net profit drop as flour, electricity, and labor costs rose. Tax Overhaul Impact: Botswana’s new Income Tax, VAT, and Customs Acts took effect July 1, including higher corporate tax and simplified arrangements for qualifying small businesses.