startWorks

What the Painted Tree closure tells us about building a small business in 2026

When the platform pulls the rug, what actually keeps a small business standing?

Apr 21 • Jocelyn Hittle

March 2026

AI for Small Businesses: Practical Uses, Automation, and Real-World Benefits

A grounded look at how automation supports solo operators without replacing decision-making or ownership

Mar 24 • Jocelyn Hittle

The Small Business Hierarchy of Needs

A Practical Model for Moving from Basic IT Setup to Secure Systems, Team Collaboration, Operational Efficiency, and Business Growth

Mar 8 • Jocelyn Hittle

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January 2026

Meet Fred Wilf: Trusted Legal Support for the startWorks Community

What You Need To Know about Legal Support for Creatives

Jan 21 • Jocelyn Hittle

Meet Aaron: Thoughtful Support Behind The Scenes At startWorks

New Technician Supporting inWorks, homeIT & startWorks

Jan 14 • Jocelyn Hittle

2026: The Year of the Creative Entrepreneur (and Sustainable Business Growth)

What's Next For startWorks

Jan 6 • Jocelyn Hittle

December 2025

What Small Businesses Should Do After the Christmas Season — and How to Prepare Your Business for Success in the New Year

The time after the winter rush can be bittersweet, here is how you can optimize your post-holiday prep

Dec 27, 2025 • Jocelyn Hittle

Funding Deadlines Artists & Small Businesses Should Know

Don't miss these opportunities for December 2025 and Early 2026!

Dec 11, 2025 • Jocelyn Hittle

November 2025

If Your Business Feels Heavy This Thanksgiving, Read This

Plus: 10 Things Entrepreneurs Forget to Be Thankful For (But shouldn’t) + A Client Appreciation Template You Can Steal

Nov 27, 2025 • Jocelyn Hittle

The Reality of Creative Entrepreneurship: Why Most Artists Don't Want To Be Business Owners

Where the tension between creativity and commerce becomes inescapable.

Nov 13, 2025 • Jocelyn Hittle

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Creative Ecosystems: Why Collaboration is the Future of Independent Work

Referral networks, mutual promotion, and partnerships.

Nov 6, 2025 • Jocelyn Hittle

October 2025

Holiday Survival Guide for Small Business Owners

Stay Sane, sell more, and celebrate the holidays (and your contributions) smarter!

Oct 30, 2025 • Jocelyn Hittle