Articles

Reasons Why Small Businesses Fail and How to Avoid Them Source: CO by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Starting a small business takes patience, perseverance, and a lot of hard work. Launching a new venture is difficult: Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that nearly half of all startups fail within the first five years.…

Winning Back Lost Customers: Smart Strategies to Reignite Trust and Revenue Reacquiring a customer is up to 5x cheaper than landing a new one. Personalized communication and data-driven offers rebuild loyalty. Solving past issues signals integrity and earns second chances. Consistent follow-ups turn past silence into renewed revenue. A structured win-back strategy boosts long-term retention…

Last Week in the Legislature ~ 5.14.25 It was a busy week at the Capitol, with both the House and Senate in town for legislative session. Lawmakers advanced a wide range of proposals with significant implications for Pennsylvania employers — from major changes to employment law and benefits programs to sweeping new mandates and regulatory…

Pennsylvania Primary Election is May 20 The 2025 PA Primary election is less than one week away, and this message is your friendly reminder and guide for finding resources. Primary Elections in PA In a primary election, Democrat and Republican voters select the candidates that they want to represent their parties during the November general…

Why Your Team Isn’t Getting It (Even When You Think You’re Crystal Clear) Many leaders mistake communication for clarity—assuming once it’s said, it’s understood. Misalignment often stems from inconsistent messaging, assumptions, and cultural “static.” True clarity requires shared understanding, structured communication, and leadership presence. Clear communication systems—not just repeated messages—drive alignment and trust.  615 words…

The High Cost of Early Childhood Education Chris Berleth, President The Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce At 4:45 am this morning, as I left home to head to the Capitol, with my kids still sleeping soundly (thankfully), and my wife starting to stir, no doubt at the smell of coffee. She’d be out the door…

The Senioritis Solution: Co-op Cures Columbia Montour County By: Amber Hughes, Intern of Communications and Marketing at the Chamber  As someone who participated in a Co-op program during high school, I can personally attest to the value of these experiences. Through my own Co-op placement, I gained professional skills, built connections with mentors, and acquired…

Central Columbia Students Showcase Skills at 2025 Sea, Air, and Land (SEAL) Challenge BLOOMSBURG, PA – The Foundation of the Columbia Montour Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted its annual Sea, Air, and Land (SEAL) Challenge on Friday, April 25, 2025, at Central Columbia’s Blue Jay Academy. Designed to foster innovation, leadership, and real-world problem-solving, the…

Congress Delivers Regulatory Relief Source: US Chamber of Commerce Costly CRA-Eligible Regulations Should be Repealed With the unprecedented cost of regulations during President Biden’s Administration—$1.8 trillion in total—many of which occurred toward the end of the previous Administration, there remain dozens of CRA-eligible regulations that could be repealed. In particular, the  US Chamber is focused…

Last Week in the Legislature 4.30.25 Source: PA Chamber of Business and Industry House lawmakers returned to Harrisburg for legislative session last week and advanced several proposals affecting Pennsylvania businesses, including legislation related to data privacy, legal liability, cryptocurrency, and waste management. Here is a recap of last week’s legislative action most relevant to employers:…