Small-Business Lending: Greater Milwaukee Foundation opened applications for its 2026 ThriveOn Small Business Loans, targeting 10 Milwaukee-area commercial-space operators with up to $50,000 at a 3% fixed rate over seven years, plus required coaching and an action plan (deadline July 20). Local Entrepreneurship: Niobrara Grain and Milling highlights how a family organic flour business turns farm-grown wheat into higher-value products by leaning on partnerships and customer relationships. Gaming & Main Street Politics: Pennsylvania’s “skill games” fight is heating up after a court setback—Parx says the devices fuel crime and laundering, while supporters rally that they help fund veterans posts and small businesses. AI for SMBs: A Thryv survey finds AI adoption among small businesses is up to 66%, but 70% of owners say they need more training to use it effectively. Disaster Recovery Access: A Disaster Recovery Center opened in St. Landry Parish for Tropical Storm Arthur victims, with FEMA and SBA specialists on-site. Capital for Niche Operators: Lendistry secured a $100M credit facility from East West Bank to expand its Airport Concessions Program for undercapitalized airport small businesses. Election Tech Scrutiny: Minnesota campaign use of AI is under debate after deepfake concerns, raising questions about how much AI is used behind the scenes and how harms can happen unintentionally. Regulatory Burden Pushback: NFIB is urging Congress to repeal the Beneficial Ownership Information mandate, calling it invasive and warning of criminal penalties for small firms. Right-to-Repair Momentum: John Deere’s settlement with Minnesota and other states continues to reshape software access rules for owners and small repair shops.