Author Page for Shelbi Wescott

Gusto’s most popular integrations are based on the app’s rating and frequency of downloads and cover categories from accounting to 401(k) management.

King’s Hill Roaster’s mission is to keep profits moving back into the communities where their coffee beans originated. While benevolent capitalism might seem like an oxymoron, the idea has been gaining traction, if not attention. Read more about how Dan and Melody Hues are blazing trails in the coffee roasting space.

Brittany Washington started her business My Beautiful Fluff out of an industry need for plus-sized representation. Like many entrepreneurs, she saw an opening in the market and thought, “If I can’t find it, I’ll create it.” From t-shirts, My Beautiful Fluff expanded into both print-on-demand and manufactured products and has continued to find new ways to grow and reach its audience.

Newks Hot Sauce is a pandemic-born business that has found unusual success in tough times. Read more about the Newks story and how owner Jake Newcomb turned a side hustle into a growing business.

Merchant Maverick Opportunity Grant winner Robin Holmes of Deddle’s Mini Donuts opened her big pink food truck, as she says, just on faith and research. The big pink Deddle’s food truck is a welcome sight in the Baltimore area, bringing mini donut creations, fried chicken, and a whole lotta heart. Learn how Robin started her business and where it’s going.

Merchant Maverick Opportunity Grant winner Jennifer Greer of Jane Deaux Investigations offers services for defendants in court cases in Tennessee. Read more about her, why she got into the private investigation business, what motivates her, and how she’s working to affect the criminal justice system for the better.

The motto of Bri’s Dance Place in Merrillville, Indiana is “We don’t just teach dance, we teach life!” And owner Brianna Hairlson, winner of one of Merchant Maverick’s Opportunity Grants, knows a lot about both topics. Read our full interview with Brianna.

Grant writing is a year-long endeavor that can take up a lot of your time and resources, including the emotional labor of hoping and grieving as announcements are made and the cycle continues. Read on for our top tips on how to write a winning business grant application, and what not to do when you’re applying for a grant.

Congress is still working on stimulus funding so small businesses should get ready to tackle another round of the PPP. Read about this story and more important small business news in this week’s roundup.