Category: Blog

How Small Businesses Can Lead Innovation

Posted on by Jules Slater

Content contributed by Chamber Today

  • Small businesses are driving innovation—embracing trends that fuel growth and resilience.
  • Sustainability is a competitive edge, as eco-conscious consumers demand greener products and practices.
  • E-commerce continues to grow, with social commerce and omnichannel strategies reshaping the landscape.
  • AI adoption is accelerating, streamlining operations, improving customer engagement, and enhancing decision-making.
  • Community-focused strategies build trust—hyperlocal marketing and partnerships strengthen customer loyalty.

635 words ~ 3 min. read

Small businesses have always been the heart of innovation, adapting quickly to change and shaping industries in unexpected ways. Now, a new wave of transformation is taking place—one driven by sustainability, evolving e-commerce strategies, artificial intelligence, and deeper community engagement. The businesses that embrace these trends won’t just survive; they’ll thrive.

Sustainability: More Than a Trend, a Competitive Edge

For years, large corporations have led the sustainability conversation, but today, small businesses are proving they can drive change just as effectively. Consumers increasingly seek out brands that align with their values, and sustainability is at the top of their priorities. According to a NielsenIQ study, 78% of consumers say a sustainable lifestyle is important to them.

For small businesses, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Those that commit to sustainable practices—whether by adopting eco-friendly packaging, reducing waste, or sourcing from ethical suppliers—are building long-term trust with their customers. More importantly, sustainability is no longer just a feel-good initiative; it’s a business advantage. Customers are willing to pay more for products they believe are making a difference, and small businesses that embrace this movement will attract and retain loyal buyers.

E-Commerce’s Continued Evolution

Online shopping has been growing for years, but in 2025, the landscape is shifting once again. It’s no longer just about having a website; it’s about being where the customers are—on social platforms, mobile devices, and in seamless digital experiences that connect online and offline shopping.

Social commerce, in particular, is becoming a dominant force. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest aren’t just for marketing anymore—they’re full-fledged shopping destinations. Consumers are making purchasing decisions in real-time, influenced by creators, peer reviews, and interactive content. According to Statista, global e-commerce sales are expected to reach $7.4 trillion in 2025, and small businesses that invest in social selling, mobile-friendly platforms, and omnichannel experiences will be the ones who capture that growth.

For small business owners, this means rethinking their approach. A well-optimized website is still essential, but so is an active presence on social media, easy checkout experiences, and strategies that connect digital and physical storefronts. The businesses that get this right will stay ahead of the curve.

AI for Any Business

For many small business owners, artificial intelligence once seemed like a tool reserved for tech giants. But now, AI is more accessible than ever, offering cost-effective solutions to streamline operations, improve customer engagement, and make smarter business decisions.

AI-powered chatbots are handling customer inquiries 24/7. Automated marketing tools are crafting personalized email campaigns with just a few clicks. Even customer service and inventory management are being optimized with AI-driven insights. The businesses that embrace these tools aren’t just saving time; they’re improving customer experiences and freeing up resources to focus on growth.

Platforms like Shopify Magic, ChatGPT, and HubSpot’s AI-powered CRM are making it easier for small businesses to integrate AI without needing a dedicated IT team. The key is to start small—automating one or two repetitive tasks—and gradually expanding AI’s role in the business. Those who do will be more agile, more efficient, and better equipped for long-term success.

Community Engagement: The Power of Local Connections

In a digital world, small businesses have a powerful advantage that big corporations often struggle with: the ability to build deep, meaningful relationships within their communities. More than ever, consumers want to support businesses that align with their values and contribute to something bigger than just profits.

Small businesses that invest in their local communities—by supporting local causes, partnering with nearby businesses, and engaging in hyperlocal marketing—are earning lasting customer loyalty. A Harvard Business Review study found that 64% of consumers prefer to buy from brands that share their values. When a business is seen as a key part of the community, customers become advocates, spreading word-of-mouth recommendations that no marketing budget can buy.

The Future Belongs to Those Who Innovate

The small businesses that will thrive in 2025 are the ones that recognize these shifts and take action. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a business advantage. E-commerce is no longer just a website—it’s a dynamic, social, and omnichannel experience. AI isn’t out of reach—it’s an essential tool for efficiency. And community engagement isn’t just goodwill—it’s a strategic move for brand loyalty. 

The question isn’t whether these changes are happening—the question is whether small business owners are ready to embrace them. The future of business is here, and it belongs to those willing to innovate.

Further Reading:

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The [NAME] Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike. The Chamber has been granted license to publish this content provided by Chamber Today, a service of ChamberThink Strategies LLC. 

The CBICC Network Just Keeps Growing – Say Hello to Our Newest Members!

Posted on by Jules Slater

February, 2025

Centre County continues to grow, and so does our vibrant business community! At CBICC, we’re committed to fostering connections that support businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs in their journey toward success. Our latest members represent a diverse range of industries, from technology and communications to apparel and nonprofit outreach. We’re excited to introduce them and showcase their impact on our region.

Verizon

A leader in telecommunications and technology, Verizon is committed to keeping businesses and individuals connected with reliable wireless, broadband, and digital solutions. Their investments in innovation and infrastructure help drive economic growth and technological advancement in our region. Learn more at Verizon.

DocFinity

Specializing in enterprise content management (ECM) and workflow automation, DocFinity helps businesses streamline operations, improve efficiency, and enhance digital transformation. Their cutting-edge solutions empower organizations to manage information securely and effectively. Discover more at DocFinity.

Town Pride

More than just apparel, Town Pride celebrates the communities we love with custom-designed, high-quality clothing and accessories. With a mission to bring people together through shared hometown pride, they’re creating meaningful connections across Centre County and beyond. Explore their designs at Town Pride.

The Jared Box Project

Bringing smiles to children in hospitals across the country, The Jared Box Project is a nonprofit dedicated to providing boxes filled with small toys, games, and activities to young patients. Founded in Centre County, their mission spreads joy and comfort to children facing medical challenges. Get involved at The Jared Box Project.

Join Us in Building a Stronger Centre County

We’re proud to welcome these incredible new members to the CBICC community. Each organization plays a role in shaping the future of our region, and we’re excited to support their success.

Thinking about joining CBICC? Connect with us today to learn more about the opportunities and resources available to your business. Together, we can make a lasting impact.

Learn More About Joining CBICC

Local Business Partnerships Strengthen Communities and Drive Growth

Posted on by Jules Slater

Content contributed by Chamber Today

  • Strategic partnerships expand reach – Small businesses can attract new customers, reduce costs, and strengthen their local presence by collaborating with complementary businesses.
  • Joint events boost visibility – Pop-up shops, community festivals, and charity partnerships create opportunities for cross-promotion and increased customer engagement.
  • Shared marketing maximizes impact – Social media takeovers, email marketing swaps, and joint discounts help businesses reach wider audiences without increasing advertising costs.
  • Co-working and shared spaces reduce expenses – Businesses can lower overhead costs by sharing retail locations, office spaces, or market stalls while enhancing customer experience.
  • Success stories highlight collaboration benefits – Partnerships like breweries and food trucks or bookstores and coffee shops demonstrate how businesses can thrive together by providing complementary services.

~ 507 words / 2.5 min read

Small businesses looking to expand their reach and strengthen their customer base are finding success through local collaborations. By forming strategic partnerships with other businesses and organizations, owners can tap into new audiences, reduce costs and contribute to a thriving local economy.

Finding the Right Business Partner

Successful collaborations often involve businesses that complement, rather than compete with each other. A coffee shop, for example, may partner with a bookstore to host book signings, creating a mutually beneficial arrangement that brings in customers for both. A fitness studio might team up with a health food store to promote wellness programs, offering discounts to each other’s customers.

Leveraging Events and Promotions

Local businesses can increase visibility and engagement by organizing joint events. Some popular strategies include:

  • Pop-up shops – A bakery can be set up inside a boutique, providing shoppers with refreshments while increasing exposure for both businesses.
  • Community festivals – Restaurants, retailers and service providers can join forces to sponsor or participate in local events, drawing in larger crowds.
  • Charity partnerships – Businesses that collaborate with nonprofits or local organizations not only contribute to a cause but also boost customer loyalty and trust.

Such initiatives create opportunities for businesses to cross-promote and introduce their brands to new audiences.

Collaborating on Marketing Efforts

Marketing can be a significant expense for small businesses, but shared promotional efforts help reduce costs while maximizing impact. Local businesses can work together through:

  • Social media takeovers – Partnering businesses can feature each other on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, increasing engagement.
  • Email marketing swaps – Businesses can promote each other in their newsletters, introducing their products and services to a wider audience.
  • Exclusive discounts – Offering customers a deal when they visit both businesses encourages spending across multiple locations.

Exploring Shared Spaces

Another effective collaboration strategy involves sharing physical space to cut costs and increase visibility. Co-working environments, pop-up markets and joint retail spaces are becoming increasingly popular among small business owners.

For instance, a yoga studio and a wellness clinic might share a lease, offering their clients a one-stop destination for fitness and health. Similarly, food halls that feature multiple vendors allow small restaurant owners to reach new customers without the financial burden of operating a standalone location.

Success Stories in Local Collaboration

One well-known example of local business partnerships is the collaboration between breweries and food trucks. Many craft breweries lack kitchen facilities, so they invite food trucks to set up outside their establishments. This arrangement brings in more customers, benefits both businesses and creates a vibrant atmosphere for patrons.

Independent bookstores and coffee shops have also successfully partnered to attract customers. By allowing book lovers to enjoy a cup of coffee while browsing, both businesses see increased engagement and longer customer visits.

The Bottom Line

For small businesses, collaboration is more than just a marketing strategy—it’s a way to strengthen the local economy and build lasting relationships with customers. By forming strategic partnerships, hosting events and sharing marketing efforts, businesses can maximize their resources and drive mutual success.

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The Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike. The Chamber has been granted license to publish this content provided by Chamber Today, a service of ChamberThink Strategies LLC. 

Welcome New Members of the CBICC Community!

Posted on by Jules Slater

At the Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County (CBICC), our mission is to foster a thriving economic environment by supporting businesses of all sizes and connecting them to resources, opportunities, and each other. We’re excited to introduce some incredible new members who are bringing fresh energy, ideas, and expertise to Centre County.

Bridgeway Capital

Bridgeway Capital empowers entrepreneurs and businesses through financial and educational resources. Their mission is to make Western Pennsylvania a thriving region by providing capital and support to under-resourced areas and entrepreneurs. Learn more about their impactful work at Bridgeway Capital.

The Challenge Program, Inc.

Inspiring high school students to reach their potential, The Challenge Program, Inc. connects businesses with schools to motivate students through award-based programs. Their focus on workforce development ensures a brighter future for the region. Discover their programs at The Challenge Program, Inc..

Happy Valley United

Supporting Penn State Athletics while fostering community pride, Happy Valley United works to keep our sports teams competitive by connecting fans and businesses to their mission. Dive into their exciting initiatives at Happy Valley United.

PIC

PIC is a forward-thinking marketing agency that specializes in helping businesses connect with their audiences through creative and impactful campaigns. With expertise in brand development, digital marketing, and strategic storytelling, PIC empowers organizations to share their unique stories and drive meaningful engagement. Learn more about their innovative approach at PIC.

Happy Valley Business Brokers

Specializing in helping entrepreneurs buy and sell businesses, Happy Valley Business Brokers brings expertise and integrity to every transaction. They are a valuable partner in driving our region’s entrepreneurial spirit. Visit them at Happy Valley Business Brokers.

WHM Group, LLC

WHM Group, LLC specializes in environmental consulting and engineering, offering innovative solutions in compliance, sustainability, and land development. With a focus on balancing environmental stewardship with business needs, they help clients navigate complex regulatory landscapes while advancing responsible growth. Learn more about their areas of expertise at WHM Group, LLC.

Johnson Duffie

Johnson Duffie is a full-service law firm with over a century of experience providing proactive legal counsel. They serve a diverse client base, including financial institutions, corporations, and local governments, while remaining dedicated to supporting individuals and families. Learn more at Johnson Duffie.

Join Us in Building a Stronger Centre County

We’re proud to welcome these outstanding new members to the CBICC family. Together, we’re driving growth, innovation, and success across Centre County.

Are you ready to connect with a network that’s shaping the future of our region? Contact us today to learn more about membership and the opportunities it offers for your business. Together, let’s achieve new heights.

Learn More About Joining CBICC

CBICC Voice of Business Highlights Housing, Economic Growth, and Community Connectivity

Posted on by Jules Slater

Municipal managers from the Centre Region outline collaborative efforts to address local priorities.

From left to right: CBICC President and CEO Greg Scott, State College Borough Manager Tom Fountaine, Ferguson Township Manager Centrice Martin, Harris Township Manager Mark Boeckel, Patton Township Manager Amy Farkas, and College Township Manager Adam Brumbaugh. Photo by CBICC.
From left to right: CBICC President and CEO Greg Scott, Harris Township Manager Mark Boeckel, Ferguson Township Manager Centrice Martin, College Township Manager Adam Brumbaugh, State College Borough Manager Tom Fountaine, and Patton Township Manager Amy Farkas. Photo by CBICC.

The Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County (CBICC) hosted the first-annual Centre Region Municipal Managers’ Update, a Voice of Business series event on Thursday, January 23, 2025. The event, hosted at the Wyndham Garden State College over breakfast, provided a platform for municipal managers from the Borough of State College, College Township, Ferguson Township, Harris Township, and Patton Township to discuss policies, projects, and developments impacting the Centre Region.

From addressing housing affordability to advancing infrastructure projects, the updates underscored the Centre Region’s commitment to economic growth, sustainability, and community connectivity.

The need for more affordable housing emerged as a central theme throughout the event. Adam Brumbaugh, College Township Manager, described his municipality’s plan, including modifications to Area Median Income (AMI) ordinances that expand eligibility for housing programs. “We’ve adjusted AMI guidelines to include renters earning 0-to-79% of the median income and owner-occupants earning 80-to-100%,” Brumbaugh explained.

College Township is also collaborating with developers on new projects like Crew 814, a 46-acre mixed-use development aimed at providing workforce housing. Meanwhile, Tom Fountaine, Manager of the Borough of State College, highlighted the borough’s efforts to ease development restrictions in downtown State College, the West End, and other residential neighborhoods. “We are reducing lot sizes, parking minimums, and commercial space requirements to encourage the creation of housing that is affordable for the people who work here,” he said. Fountaine also highlighted a project by the State College Redevelopment Authority to renovate a former fraternity located at 406 S. Pugh Street. Local nonprofit Centre Helps will move into the completed space in April 2025, and additional renovations will be made later to convert the top floor of the building into four new affordable apartment units.

Amy Farkas of Patton Township underscored the importance of housing availability for the region’s growing healthcare sector. With the recent completion of major facilities like Penn Highlands Hospital and Mount Nittany Health’s Toftrees West campus in Patton Township, Farkas noted: “We must ensure that those working in these new facilities have access to housing within the communities they serve.”

Economic development initiatives were another key focus. Ferguson Township Manager Centrice Martin shared progress on the municipality’s Economic Development Plan, funded in part by a $75,000 Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) grant. “This plan reflects our commitment to fostering sustainable growth and innovation in Ferguson Township’s vibrant and growing community,” Martin said.

Similarly, Brumbaugh discussed College Township’s rewrite of the Dale Summit area’s zoning code to introduce form-based zoning. This approach aims to streamline development and attract new businesses to the township’s primary commercial hub.

Infrastructure improvements also play a crucial role in economic vitality. Patton Township is introducing enhancements to traffic flow – including custom signal time changes for major community and University events – along Atherton Street and exploring options for a direct connector from I-99 to the State College Regional Airport. Meanwhile, State College Borough’s updates to the Downtown Master Plan, including revitalization projects on Calder Way, will further position the area as a hub for small businesses and community engagement.

Harris Township Manager Mark Boeckel highlighted pedestrian safety as a growing priority for his municipality. “We’re working on a pedestrian master plan to address gaps in the sidewalk network, especially in Boalsburg Village,” he said. Upcoming projects include a lighted crosswalk installation between the Pennsylvania Military Museum and Boal City Brewing, funded by a $298,000 grant from PennDOT.

State College Borough is also advancing projects designed to improve walkability and pedestrian access, including the Allen Street Promenade, funded through federal grants, and the Easterly-Westerly Parkway shared-use path project. These initiatives reflect a regional focus on connecting neighborhoods, businesses, and recreational spaces through thoughtful infrastructure design.

Following the presentations, attendees participated in a live Q&A session with the municipal managers, launching a dialogue about shared challenges and collaborative solutions.

“The updates shared today demonstrate the strength of our region,” said CBICC President and CEO Greg Scott. “Each municipality is working to address critical issues like housing, infrastructure, and sustainability while supporting economic growth that benefits all of us.”

The CBICC’s Voice of Business series continues to provide a platform for meaningful discussions on the issues shaping Centre County.