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Learning Center
Business Banking Resources

Providing Timely Resources for our Business Community

Learning materials for every phase of business. Whether you’re in the early stages or expanding a successful business, we have tools and tips to help your business thrive.


What You Need to Know About Business Email Comprise

Can you spot an email scam? Here’s how to protect your business from falling for it (and what to do if it happens):
 

 BEChomepage
Business Strategy Webinar Series
In our Business Strategy Webinar Series, our Business Banking and Treasury Management teams will be collaborating with expert partners to address the challenges being faced by business owners today.

Business Contact Form
Being a business owner is no easy task, which is why Rockland Trust is always here to lend a helping hand when you need it. For more information on our business services, you can fill out our easy online contact form.

Starting Your Business

Funding for Business

How to Get Funding for a Business

Whether your business just opened its doors or you’re ready to grow, you will need funding to reach that next goal 💰 We answer 4 common questions about securing business capital.
7 min read

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eCommerce or Brick-and-Mortar: Which One is Right For Your Business?

Ready to make your website a sales tool? Here’s what you need to know about eCommerce vs. brick-and-mortar vs. hybrid offerings:
10 minute read

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Finding the Right Merchant Services Solution for Your Business

Customers have preferred methods of payment. 💵 💳 Finding the right fit merchant services partner ensures you can provide alternate payment options to customers AND be more strategic with your long-term goals:
7 min read

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Lessons Learned: Key Takeaways to Succeed in Business from Women Who Have Done It

Hear what three female business owners 💪 have to say about their experiences with launching a small business, and how to find the resources you need to be successful in your entrepreneurial pursuit 💥
6 min read
 
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Applying for a Business Loan: Tips for Getting Started

What can business owners expect when they apply for a business loan? Eve Elliott, VP and business banking officer at Rockland Trust, outlines the process for both new and established businesses.
6.6 min read

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Catching up with Erin Baumgartner, CEO & Co-founder of Family Dinner

Watch our conversation with Small Business, Big Dreams contest winner, Erin Baumgartner.
3 min read

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Building A Company: Q&A With Baking Steel’s Andris Lagsdin

Rockland Trust spoke with Andris Lagsdin about his company, Baking Steel, and how he built his business.
6 min read

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The Abridged Guide to Writing a Business Plan

A great business idea is nothing without a solid business plan. Our business banking experts share important elements to consider.
8.3 min read

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How to Buy a Business

You have an opportunity to buy a business. The timing feels right and you’re confident about your idea. So, what are the next steps? Your trusted team can help determine if buying that business is the right move for your financial future.
6.8 min read

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Four Tips for Commercial Real Estate Investing

Commercial real estate can be an attractive investment, but before you dive in, we suggests you read these four important considerations.
6.8 min read

Interest Rates 101: A Business Owner's Guide

Increases and decreases in interest rates will impact the cost of debt like business loans and how much cash you have on hand. Find out why.
4.4 min read

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How to Start a Franchise Business

Do you have a favorite franchise? Our Senior Market Manager for Franchise Lending Mark McGwin outlines how to start this type of business.
7.2 min read

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How to Start a Business

Thinking about turning your passion into a business venture? From which legal entity to employment law, there is a lot to consider.
7.7 min read

Growing Your Business

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SBA 504 or 7(a) Loans: Which is Best For Your Business?

You’ve got a winning business idea. Now comes a challenge: determining what funding will get your business off the ground or to the next level.
 min read

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Voices of Rockland Trust: Helping Grow Local Roots with Erin Williams

When getting a commercial loan, it’s crucial to have a banking partner who understands your needs and goals. Read about how Erin Williams, VP, Commercial Loan Officer, is uniquely positioned to serve local businesses.
6 min read

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The 5 C’s of Credit: Your Path to Loan, Mortgage, and Credit Card Approval

Do you know the five Cs of securing your credit card or loan application? Here are our tips to stand out as a worthy investment to any lender:
9 min read

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Equipment Lease or Loan? Deciding What's Right for Your Business

Need to finance new business equipment? 💭 Read about your leasing and loan options to determine the best path for you:
6 min read

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How to Buy Your First Commercial Property

Buying a commercial property for your business is a big (and super exciting) step. Before you take the leap, use these tips to get your planning & financial ducks in a row:
5.7 min read

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How Rockland Trust Goes the Extra Mile To Support Businesses

Senior Vice President and Director of Business Banking, Mary Chetwynd gives her isnights on business trends, what makes Rockland Trust a special place to work, and why it’s important to lead by example.
5.3 min read

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Boost Your Small Business’s Benefits Game with this Retirement Savings Plan

Small businesses want to enable their employees to save for the future, but small-business-sponsored plans can be complicated and costly to manage. Enter our new Pooled Employer Plans:
3.2 min read

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Five Considerations When Deciding to Lease or Purchase Commercial Real Estate

It can be overwhelming for those who are diving into commercial real estate. One of the initial decisions you need to make is whether it makes more sense for your business to lease or purchase. Here are five things to consider:
7.2 min read

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IRS Tax Reporting Changes to Know if You Use Payment Apps

Did you know that starting January of 2022, the IRS is having payment apps start reporting aggregated transactions of a total of $600 or more in single year. We answer four common questions to help you prepare for what is ahead with this change.
5.5 min read

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What Businesses Need to Know About Offering Buy Now Pay Later

Since the start of 2020, Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) spending has increased by 230%. Here are some things to consider before taking the leap towards BNPL
6.2 min red

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Lending Trends to Watch

President & Chief Commercial Banking Officer Gerry Nadeau, provides thoughts on the emerging trends in 2022 for commercial lending
5 min read

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Why You Should Find a Banking Partner, Instead of Just a Lender: Q&A with Annie Selke

Businesses can find themselves in complex financial situations. Luckily, they don’t have to go it alone. Finding the right banking partner can help you capitalize on good times and navigate any rough waters.
6.1 min read

Best Tips for Recruiting and Hiring Top Talent in a Competitive Labor Market

Best Tips for Recruiting and Hiring Top Talent in a Competitive Labor Market

Here are four actionable steps to help get started with rethinking your company’s hiring and retention strategies.
4.4 min read

RND consultants

How RND Consultants Navigated its Second Anniversary Amid a Pandemic

Here is what Janice Bergeron, owner of RND Consultants, Inc., had to say about running her business during the pandemic.
4.3 min read

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Could Your Business Benefit from a Line of Credit?

Could your business benefit from a line of credit? We asked vice president and commercial loan officer Jim Gavin about the benefits.
5.8 min read

woman working in a warehouse

The Benefits of Leasing for Business Owners

Not sure how the recent tax law changes should factor into leasing considerations for your business? One of our leasing experts broke down your options.
4.7 min read

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Managing Business Cash Flow and More

Starting a business is no easy feat. Growing your business to more than a million dollars in revenue in your first year? An extraordinary accomplishment.
5.4 min read

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Creating a Growth Plan For Your Business

Eve Elliott, Vice President and Business Officer at Rockland Trust, shared answers to three common questions business owners ask when considering the creation of a growth plan.
5.2 min read

employees working together

How to Develop Talent Within Your Business

Our Talent Development Analyst, Meaghan Prior discusses how employers can nurture top talent.
6.8 min read

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How to Boost Your Company's Cash Flow Mojo

Do you have questions about managing cash flow for your business? We can help you navigate common cash flow challenges.
6.5 min read

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Four Questions to Ask When Thinking About Business Expansion

If you’re considering expanding your business, an experienced and knowledgeable partner like Rockland Trust can help.
3.9 min read

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How Small Businesses Can Go Green

Being green 🌱 on Earth Day (April 22) and every other day of the year is not only a smart way for businesses to help the environment, but it can save them money, too. Here are some environmentally friendly 🌎 strategies your business can start doing today that will reap rewards down the line:
4 min read

Protecting Your Business

Navigating the Digital Minefield of Business Fraud

Navigating the Digital Minefield of Business Fraud

In case you missed our recent webinar “Navigating the Digital Minefield of Business Fraud” with Citrin Cooperman, check out our recap that shares the key takeaways to help protect your business from cyber threats
9.7 min

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How Small Businesses Can Avoid, Spot and Report Check Fraud

Checks are one of the most vulnerable payment methods to fraud attempts. Our fraud experts, Stacey Coyne and Karianne Golemme, share what business owners need to know about check fraud in our new article:
8 min read

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Working with your Bank to Prevent Wire Fraud for Your Business

Scammers are everywhere. To protect your business, keep your bank in the loop and learn to recognize the signs of wire fraud
7.3 min read

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What You Need to Know About Business Email Compromise

Can you spot an email scam? Here’s how to protect your business from falling for it (and what to do if it happens):
7 min read

8 Ways to Protect Yourself from Fraud

8 Ways to Protect Yourself from Fraud

While you can't always prevent fraud from happening, you can take steps to protect your personal information and limit your exposure to fraud and identity thief.
5.1 min read

businesswoman reviewing blueprints

Five Key Banking Services For Today's Business Environment

Here are five banking services that may be of the most use to businesses right now. From our newest technology, Autobooks to ACH we have you covered.
3.6 min read

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6 Ways You Can Support Your Local Businesses and Community Organizations

Now is the time to rally around your favorite local businesses and community organizations. Learn more about how you can help.
1.4 min read

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Six Ways Business Owners Can Manage Financial Operations During COVID-19

Changes due to COVID-19 and economic uncertainty may affect your business. We share six financial business processes you can control during this time.
3.8 min read

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Seven Steps to Prevent Business Fraud

If you act within 24 hours of a fraudulent incident, the chances of recovering your money dramatically increase. Learn more about protecting your business from fraud.
6.3 min read

A Business Guide to Combating Fraud

In honor of International Fraud Awareness Week, Rockland Trust recommends these five best practices for protecting your business from fraud.
1.5 min read

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Making Sense of Commercial Banking Account Rates and Fees

Being aware of and understanding fees can help you to make more informed decisions about the banking products and services you really need.
5.2 min read

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Protect Your Business Against Fraud This Holiday Season

Did you know that a record 82% of businesses reported fraudulent activities last year? Learn how to protect your business this holiday season.
5.3 min read

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Protect Your Business Against Fraud This Holiday Season

Did you know that a record 82% of businesses reported fraudulent activities last year? Learn how to protect your business this holiday season.
5.3 min read

Managing Your Business

How to Maintain Business Success when Facing the Unexpected

If 2023 has taught us anything, it’s that smart forecasting is the way to go. Here’s advice from our Chief Commercial Banking Officer, Jim Rizzo, to ensure your business is prepared for the unexpected.
5.9 min

A Family Affair: Spotlighting Precision Pilates

Learn about Precision Pilates and how their relationship with Rockland Trust supported their expansion efforts:
7.2 min read

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Tips to Inflation-proof Your Business

Running a successful business is hard. Running a successful business in an inflationary time is even harder. But don’t get caught up in revenue; there’s a lot more you can do to inflation-proof your business. Learn more:
8 min read
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From Teller to SVP: Peg McCarthy Celebrates 35 Years with Rockland Trust

Your relationship with your bank is just as important as the relationship you have with your customers. SVP and Chief Retail Banking Officer Peg McCarthy shares why relationships are at the core of everything Rockland Trust does as she celebrates 35 years with the bank:
5 min read

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Tax Considerations for Your Small Businesses in 2023

Tax season is upon us. Didn't have time to watch our recent webinar? No worries we have a recap here for you:
2.9 min read

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3 Strategies to Alleviate Supply Chain Disruptions in Your Business

Itamar Chalif, Vice President, Business Banking Officer at Rockland Trust, advises his business customers on how to weather the unpredictability of supply chains.
7.2 min read

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To Hedge or Not to Hedge - That Is the Question

Should your business consider a foreign exchange hedging strategy? Rockland Trust breaks down the basics and what you need to know.
8 min read

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What to Know about the Inflation Reduction Act

In August 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law with several provisions. Our tax expert Rita Yeung, CPA, vice president and manager of tax services, gives insight of how this affects self-employed individuals.
8 min read

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Sustaining Your Manufacturing Business in 2022

Here are three goals for manufacturing leaders to keep top-of-mind to manage their businesses this year:
5.4 min read

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What To Know Before Filing Your Business Taxes This Year

To help ease the pain of tax season, we asked Laura Jenkins, a tax partner with Citrin Cooperman, about a few things business owners should keep in mind when filing taxes this year.
7.2 min read

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Why Is Branding Important For My Business

We asked, Alastair Ironside Chief Marketing Officer at Rockland Trust, why brands are important for small and medium-sized businesses.
3.1 min read

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Why Company Culture is So Important

Every single business has a culture. Our Assistant Vice President of Employment, Colleen Balboni shares why it’s important to intentionally define your company’s culture.
6.8 min read

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How to Successfully Build and Maintain a Family Business

Turn your favorite family member into your business partner. One of our commercial banking experts outlines four best practices for building and maintaining a thriving family business.
5.5 min read

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The Life and Death Reality of Business Succession Planning

Without succession planning, nearly seven out of ten family-owned businesses won’t survive into the second generation. There’s plenty of time to identify the right succession plan to keep your business.
4.9 min read

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How to Pay Your Business Bills

From checks to wire transfers, there are many ways you can pay your business bills. But which method is the right one? Our Treasury Management experts share what business owners need to know.
6.9 min read

employees at a networking event

Networking 101 for Business Owners

Like any other skill, networking takes practice. Meaghan Prior our Talent Develop Analyst shares five basic, but essential, networking tips.
6.5 min read

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Resources for Minority, Women and LGBTQIA Business Owners

What resources help you as a business owner? We compiled a list of resources for businesses owned by minorities, women and LGBTQIA individuals.
5.2 min read

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Why LIBOR Going Away Matters for Your Finances

LIBOR may go away in 2021 - what does this mean for interest rates and your financial strategy? Jonathan Nelson, SVP and Treasurer at Rockland Trust, shares what borrowers need to know.
5.9 min read

recruiter interviewing candidate on tablet

The Right Mix of Benefits for Employee Recruitment

Does your company offer any unique benefits that set you apart? Our experts suggest essential and nice-to-have benefits that can aid in recruiting new employees.
5.8 min read

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Managing Your Business Through A Changing Economy

Business Owners: Can you withstand economic change? Our business banking expert Joe Moser offers considerations to help you create a plan.
5.2 min read

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A Deep Dive Analysis of the Latest Qualified Business Income Deduction

Rockland Trust Investment Management Group’s resident Trust Tax Services Officer explains some finer details on the latest IRS deductions for qualified business income.
7.3 min read

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How to Draft a Winning Team of Business Advisors

A strong team of advisors is necessary to help you with everything from developing a business plan to your day-to-day finances.
6.3 min read

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Giving Them a Reason to Stay: Benefits that Help Retain Employees

Our human resources experts share some of the benefits that can help you keep your employees happy.
4.1 min read

Support Small Businesses

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Small Steps, Big Plans: The Inspiring Stories of Three Small Business Owners

More than just a business! Our Small Business Big Dreams💫 contest finalists share why community is at the heart of their businesses:
6 min read

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Veteran-Owned Businesses Take a Village

Karen Cozza and Sonny Caliendo have a lot in common. They both run small businesses in Eastern Massachusetts. They're also both United States Armed Forces veterans. Learn more about their insights into running a business
6.5 min read

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Small Business, Big Dreams 2022: Meet Our Three Finalists Who Support Their Local Communities

For our three Small Business, Big Dreams contest finalists, the impact of their businesses on the communities they care about are paramount. 
9 min read

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Running a Cape Cod Landmark: The Lobster Trap Restaurant

Backstory of how one of Cape Cod's staple restaurants has become so successful
7.8 min read

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Why You Should Find a Banking Partner, Instead of Just a Lender: Q&A with Annie Selke

Finding the right banking partner can help you capitalize on good times and navigate any rough waters. Learn more from Annie Selke and Gretchen Troiano
6 min read

BirchBarn’s Strong Banking Relationship Supports Business Growth

Facebook Live Recap: BirchBarn’s Strong Banking Relationship Supports Business Growth

Here are five valuable takeaways for how to turn your passion(s) into a viable business.
4.3 min read

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Small Business, Big Dreams Contest: Meet Three Local Businesses Building Back Stronger

The winner will receive $20,000 to help achieve their goals, and the two runners-up will receive $2,500 each.
5.9 min read

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Meet Our Winner and Finalists

Small businesses are important pillars in our communities. Learn more about our Small Business, Big Dreams finalists, including how winner Family Dinner plans to use the $20,000 prize.
7.6 min read

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How Three Local Business Owners Got Started

Learn how these three local business owners got started. We spoke with each of these business owners about their individual, and very personal, path to running their own company.
8.3 min read

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Support Small Business May Round Up

Small businesses that give back to our communities need our support now more than ever. Check out our four May Support Small Businesses raffle winners.
4.9 min read

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Support Small Businesses April Round Up

We asked you about your favorite local businesses that give back to the community. Learn more about our April Support Small Businesses contest winners.
4.2 min read

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Support Small Businesses Spotlight: Arax Market

“The community is the backbone of our business and we are proud to be here for them,” says Arax Market owner Betty Bassmajian. 
3.9 min read

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Support Small Businesses Spotlight: Between the Roses Florist

Between the Roses Florists Owner and Designer Patricia Westgate gives back to her community in many ways. 
2.7 min read

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Support Small Businesses Spotlight: Tumblefun Gymnastics

As Owner Vicki McPherson says, “At Tumblefun Gymnastics, everyone is family!” Learn more about this Support Small Businesses contest winner.
3 min read

Mr. Carl's Hair and Nail Design

Support Small Businesses Spotlight: Mr. Carl's Hair & Nail Design

Mr. Carl's Hair & Nail Design has been serving customers in Somerset for more than 50 years. 
3.3 min read

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Support Small Businesses Spotlight: Elliot Farm

It’s now more important than ever to support your favorite local small businesses. Learn more about Southeastern MA favorite Elliot Farm, one of our Support Small Businesses contest winners.
3.9 min read

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Support Small Businesses Spotlight: Dolly's Boutique - Simple Treasures

Local small businesses like Dolly’s Boutique ~ Simple Treasures have been supporting our communities for years. It’s time to return the favor. Learn more about owner Dolly Hardy’s story.
4.4 min read

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Support Small Businesses Spotlight: B FREE Coaching & Wellness

“I designed B FREE so everyone could have a place to feel welcome, connected and unjudged. The community needs that more than ever, especially now,” says Ayanna Parrent, owner and founder of B FREE Coaching & Wellness.
3.2 min read

Customer Stories

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Case in Point: How a Line of Credit Helped Brighton Marine Fuel its Veterans Housing Development Project

A line of credit can help your company fund important projects and ideas.
4.1 min read

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Fame, Fortune, and Pies: Centerville Pie Co.

Given the remarkable success of the Centerville Pie Co., and everything from its apple and cherry pies to its savory lobster and chicken pot pies, Broadley’s decision is a case study for any small businesses wrestling with when to grow and when to say no.
10.2 min read

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We Bought a Golf Course: A Couple's Love for the Game

Joe O’Connor and Jennifer Webster grew up 1,200 miles apart in far different parts of the country, but shared a common passion—golf. This past winter, the O’Connors both veteran golf professionals—purchased Holly Ridge Golf Club.
12 min read

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It Takes a Family: Secrets of Success of Family-Owned Businesses

Today, Zildjian is the world’s largest maker of cymbals and drumsticks for musicians and the oldest family-owned business in the U.S.
7.7 min read

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Ode to the Quahog

Erik Bevans was tending bar one winter night in a small Brookline pub, explaining to a late-night regular that he wasn’t just an everyday barkeep. He had a real career, seasonal, running a small eatery on Cape Cod.
7.9 min read

business owners at their office

Making the Leap: Local Business Follows the Sign of Success

So when they were planning their wedding in Portsmouth, N.H., three years ago and couldn’t find suitable gifts for their siblings, they decided to do something special on their own.
8.8 min read

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Making the Gig Economy Work with a Click

Zack Smith will never be one of those people who say, “Why didn’t I think of that?” as they watch a simple, innovative idea explode with success. Smith, and partner, Cory Bober, are smack in the middle of one of those simple ideas.
8.5 min read

candy shop

Social Media Strategy: Drives Sweet Results

“I know how to push buttons on the computer, but my son is the savvy one when it comes to social media,” said Ron Fedele, the owner of Fedele’s Chocolates in Pembroke.
8.2 min read

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A Career Born From a Popsicle Stand

Her childhood lemonade stand sparked her career in nonprofit research, and with the giving season upon us, Helen Brown has some advice for charity organizations.
8.3 min read

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For Bay State's Craft Brewers, Being "Dad's Beer" Isn't Cool

One of the state’s leading brewers offers insights into this rapidly expanding industry – and cautions that not everybody can make good beer.
10 min read

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Hospitality Company Proves Cape Cod Isn't Just for Summertime

Any discussion about the hospitality industry on Cape Cod is almost sure to include the word “seasonal,” and probably “temporary.” It’s unavoidable.
8.4 min read