In 2026, Congress will operate under the same forces that have defined the last few sessions: narrow margins, high polarization, and a hard midterm clock. Republicans currently hold the House and a slim Senate edge, which usually means floor time goes to must-pass bills and party-line messaging, while bipartisan deals happen mainly where deadlines force them.
As our nation’s small business community continues its record-breaking surge with over 21 million new business applications over the last four years, the National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE), the nation’s leading advocate and resource for the self-employed and micro-business community, announced today $28,000 in Growth Grants to seven local small businesses for the third quarter of 2025, including three sponsored by AARP.
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Dec 01, 2025
As the small business community continues its record-setting surge of over 21 million new small businesses for the last few years, Keith Hall, president and CEO of National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE), the nation's leading advocate and resource for the self-employed and micro-businesses, today encouraged the American public to show their support for our nation’s new and existing mom-and-pop small businesses, and #ShopSmall this Small Business Saturday, November 29th.
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Nov 23, 2025
Let’s start with a little honesty: If you’re a small business, then in many ways, you are the brand. In other words, your customers aren’t just purchasing your service or product—they’re making an investment in your energy, reputation, and the many other components that make your business what it is.
And while you may not have a marketing team, what you do have is something that big companies can’t fake: a story. A real one—and that’s your power.
Whether you’re a self-employed hustler, a micro business owner working out of your garage, or a family business that’s been around for years, your personal brand is your edge. It’s how you gain trust, reel in your ideal clients, and achieve sustained success.
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Nov 12, 2025
David D’Arcangelo is the Founder and President of Arc Angel Communications LLC (Arc Angel), as well as Angel Buttons LLC, both nationally certified Disability-Owned Business Enterprises (DOBE). Legally blind since childhood, David has forged a distinguished career at the intersection of public service, policy, and entrepreneurship. His leadership includes service as a Presidential appointee to the National Council on Disability, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, and Director of the Massachusetts Office on Disability. He also brings national nonprofit governance experience through his role on the Board of Directors of the National Industries for the Blind, the largest employer of people who are blind in the United States of America.
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Nov 12, 2025
The government shutdown continues into another week with no clear resolution in sight. October 31st, is the 1-month mark of the shutdown. The Senate adjourned for the week yesterday and will not return until Monday, November 10, extending the government shutdown until at least its 34th day, which would match the longest funding lapse in U.S. history.
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Nov 12, 2025
Running a small business demands everything you’ve got—creativity, time, energy, and determination. While your passion may fuel long hours and dedication, even the most motivated entrepreneurs aren’t immune to burnout. According to a 2022 study by Capital One, 48% of small business owners reported experiencing burnout, with inflation, cash flow, and low sales cited as top challenges.1 Fortunately, implementing strategic self-care practices can help you sustain your well-being and business success.
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Oct 30, 2025
Jennifer Sarrett, PhD is a NASE Member and the Founder & CEO of Disruptive Inclusion located in Atlanta, GA. Dr. Sarrett is a medical anthropologist turned business consultant who helps healthcare and science organizations build high-performing teams through what she calls Organizational Culture Design™. Unlike traditional approaches that fix problems after they occur, she helps organizations prevent costly culture crises by proactively and intentionally designing policies and practices. With a Ph.D. in interdisciplinary studies and international research experience, she’s guided organizational transformations for clients ranging from medical research institutes to healthcare systems to media companies. Her methodology focuses on the invisible systems that either accelerate or undermine team performance—especially in high-stakes situations where effective collaboration saves lives.
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Oct 30, 2025
As the current government shutdown extends into weeks, many self-employed individuals and micro-business owners wonder what it really means for them. Unlike larger corporations with deep reserves or teams of financial analysts, independent business owners often feel the effects of uncertainty immediately — in delayed payments, paused contracts, or shaken consumer confidence.
While it’s impossible to control government gridlock, there are practical steps you can take now to protect your livelihood and maintain stability during a shutdown. Below are five essential tips to help self-employed professionals and micro-business owners prepare both financially and operationally for what could be a challenging few weeks or even months.
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Oct 30, 2025
As the start of health insurance open enrollment approaches on Saturday, November 1st, the National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE)—the nation’s leading advocate and resource for the self-employed and micro-business community—is urging millions of small business owners and entrepreneurs to take advantage of available tools and resources to select the right health care plan.
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Oct 28, 2025