A new national survey by Pew Research Center reveals Americans trust small businesses more than any other institution.  Of the 5,000 adults surveyed, 86% said small businesses have a positive “effect on the way things are going in this country,” compared to the 12% who said they have a negative effect.  Pew asked the survey participants about several institutions in the country,…

This is a guest blog from Green Business Network member Longwave Financial. Tax season is often a time of year that can bring complexity and stress to even the most spirted and seasoned entrepreneurs. Yet, amid the pressure and seemingly endless paperwork, there’s an opportunity to turn challenges into strategic advantages, especially for those committed to sustainability. There are specific…

Women’s business acumen is nothing new—evidence shows women as early as the times of Mesopotamia, Ancient Greece, and Sparta involved in trading, owning property, and running shops. Currently in the United States, women entrepreneurship is on the rise, but women business owners still make up less than half of all business owners, and the disparities increase for Black, Indigenous and women of…

This is a guest blog from Green Business Network member Longwave Financial. Love is in the air, and while hearts flutter, finances can often be a cause of stress and concern for couples in all stages of life. As Valentine’s Day approaches, I can share a personal reflection on the intersection of love, money, and values. Recently engaged myself, my partner Taylor and I have embarked on an…

Green America's Green Business Network is the first and most diverse network of socially and environmentally responsible businesses in the country. Now one certified Green Business Network member, Natural Investments, is taking this a step further, by reorganizing as a perpetual purpose trust. In taking this step, Natural Investments was inspired by Patagonia, which made headline news in…

Shopping at small and local businesses is good for the circular economy and a best practice for supporting people and the planet. This is doubly true for businesses owned and operated by diverse leadership, especially those who have been kept from wealth accumulation. Patronizing Black-owned businesses for Black History Month—and beyond—is smart way to Vote with Your Dollar and uplift those who…

It’s a new year and it’s time to plan. For business owners, that means looking at practices that will make them as successful a new year as possible. In a world that is prioritizing sustainability and ethical business practices more than ever, these green business resolutions can help any venture become a go-to that employees are happy to work for, and shoppers are proud to patronize.  Be…

It’s a new year and excitement is high for what’s ahead—what we all wish to accomplish, to experience, to pursue as we prepare for another orbit around the sun. One area to think about in a world that demands us to consume is shopping. These ethical shopping resolutions can help anyone become a more conscientious consumer, even in the faces of capitalism and greed.  Learn Greenwashing…

The holidays are officially on our doorsteps and with them, a rush to get our loved ones the perfect gifts—or ourselves! Why not save money and show kindness to the planet by shopping eco-friendly holiday sales?  Save on everything from fair trade jewelry to plant-based skincare and organic pet products. Every sale recommended in this article comes from our thousands of certified…

The holidays are upon us and with them the flurry to find the perfect gift for loved ones. This year, consider giving to not just people, but the planet, too, by shopping our Fair Trade Gift Guide.  Fair trade is a system of exchange that honors producers, communities, consumers, and the environment. It is a model for the global economy rooted in people-to-people connections, justice,…