Category Archives: Member Blog

FinCEN Removes Beneficial Ownership Reporting Requirements for U.S. Companies and U.S. Persons, Sets New Deadlines for Foreign Companies

FinancialCrimesEnforcementNetwork

Following the U.S. Treasury Department’s March 2, 2025, announcement, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) is making a big change: in an interim final rule, U.S. companies and individuals will no longer have to report beneficial ownership information (BOI) under the Corporate Transparency Act.

With this interim final rule, FinCEN is updating the definition of a “reporting company.” Now, only businesses formed under the laws of another country and registered to do business in the U.S. by filing with a state or tribal office (formerly called “foreign reporting companies”) will need to report BOI. Meanwhile, U.S.-created entities (previously known as “domestic reporting companies”) are officially exempt from these reporting requirements.

In short, if your company was created in the U.S.,… Read the rest

Delegation Done Right: Free Yourself and Empower Your Team

Delegation

Many leaders take pride in wearing all the hats. You built the business. You know how everything works. But the constant “I’ll just do it myself” mindset can quickly lead to burnout—and a team that’s disengaged, underutilized, and uninspired.

Here’s the truth: Delegation isn’t giving up control. It’s multiplying your impact. When done right, delegation empowers your team, develops future leaders, and gives you the space to focus on the work that only you can do: vision, strategy, and growth.

Why Leaders Struggle to Delegate

If you’ve ever thought:

  • “No one can do this as well as I can”
  • “It’s faster if I do it myself”
  • “If something goes wrong, I’m the one on the hook”

You’re not alone. These beliefs are common—but they limit your potential and the potential of your people.… Read the rest

AI for Small Businesses: Practical Steps to Boost Efficiency and Customer Engagement

a woman looking at her laptop in a coffee shop planning on engaging with a business online

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just for large enterprises—it’s leveling the playing field for small businesses, empowering them to operate smarter, save time, and deliver better customer experiences. Whether you’re running a local café or a growing e-commerce business, AI tools can help streamline operations and scale your efforts effectively. The challenge? Knowing where to begin.

Here’s how small business owners can get started with AI and see meaningful results.

Identify Pain Points in Your Business

The first step to integrating AI is identifying where it can have the most impact. Start by analyzing workflows, customer interactions, and daily tasks to uncover inefficiencies or repetitive processes that waste time and resources.

Ask yourself:

  • Are you spending too much time on administrative tasks?
Read the rest

The Power of Video Marketing: How to Engage, Convert, and Win

Video camera

Video marketing has evolved from a nice-to-have strategy into an essential tool for businesses looking to engage audiences, increase brand awareness, and drive conversions. As platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok continue to dominate digital consumption, businesses that fail to embrace video content risk losing relevance.

In fact, online videos can reach 92% of internet users worldwide, underscoring its dominance in the digital landscape. Whether you’re a small business or a global brand, an effective video strategy can help you connect with your audience in meaningful ways, differentiate your brand, and ultimately drive business growth.

1. Tell a Story, Not Just Sell

Consumers today are bombarded with advertisements and sales-driven content. To break through the noise, brands need to focus on storytelling rather than just pushing products or services.… Read the rest

FORD vs. HEFE: Frameworks for Networking and Small Talk 

Small talk is the foundation of networking

Small talk is the foundation of networking, but it often feels forced or superficial. Frameworks like FORD and HEFE can transform casual conversations into meaningful connections. Let’s explore the strengths and applications of each to help you decide when and how to use them effectively.

The FORD Framework

FORD stands for Family, Occupation, Recreation, and Dreams. These topics serve as approachable entry points for conversation.

Strengths:

  • Universality: Family and work are nearly universal topics, offering familiarity and relatability.
  • Aspiration-oriented: Discussing dreams often leads to uplifting and engaging exchanges.
  • Simplicity: Its structure is easy to remember and apply.

Best Use Cases:

  • Quick introductions or casual networking events.
  • Situations where building rapport is more important than diving deep.

Example Questions: 

  • Did you grow up around here, or did your family move here later?
Read the rest