Devin Lavengood, Commercial Lender

08/27/2026

Experts presented useful tips and an optimistic view of artificial intelligence to the House Small Business Committee, insisting that small businesses deploying AI will add, not cut, workers.

Experts presented useful tips and an optimistic view of artificial intelligence to a House Committee, insisting that small businesses using AI add sales and workers.

08/24/2026

The emergence of AI agents has challenged our previous concepts of what is possible. These systems can plan, act and execute workflows with increasing autonomy.

How can we guide our people toward an entirely new suite of skills while setting them up for future success?

08/04/2026

This month's retail sales growth shows the resilience of our local economies, with clothing and accessories leading the way.

US retail sales have increased for the ninth month in a row, fuelled in part by gains in clothing and accessories stores and summer sales events.

07/31/2026

As the retail landscape evolves, it’s essential for businesses to deliver real value and seamless experiences to their customers.

Retailers should rethink their loyalty strategies to meet consumer expectations of providing real-time value and instant gratification. ​

07/24/2026

Starting a new business is a thrilling journey, filled with potential! However, laying a solid foundation requires strategic thinking. From defining your brand to choosing effective marketing methods, every choice matters.

Learn how to market your small business on a tight budget with strategic branding, audience targeting, and cost-effective tactics that drive real growth.

07/12/2026

In a world where technology is rapidly evolving, we understand the importance of balancing innovation with a human touch. Let’s explore how AI and robotics are reshaping industries and what it means for small businesses.

GM, Santander and other companies are expanding robotics and AI, but other companies are having doubts.

07/10/2026

The latest small business statistics for 2024 offer valuable insights that can empower you to achieve your financial goals. At our bank, we believe in combining modern technology with personal connections to support local entrepreneurs.
https://ow.ly/QGzJ50Zmyfa

07/02/2026

In a world where businesses optimize for operational excellence, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters: the human connection.

Here's how years of shared best practices, optimization and AI-driven efficiency have made differentiation and loyalty harder to sustain.

06/25/2026

At our bank, we believe in the power of community and the importance of guiding individuals and businesses to achieve their financial dreams. Just like Ashley Rector, who used innovative tools to shape her entrepreneurial journey, we are committed to blending modern banking technology with a personal touch.

The public benefit corporation ZenBusiness has built out its Velo AI guide in response to high usage by customers.

06/24/2026

In today’s fast-paced world, the key to successfully integrating AI into your business isn’t about mandating everyone to adopt it. Instead, focus on empowering the curious and those who naturally embrace innovation.

In this edition of "Ask the Board," idiscover how to integrate AI into your workflows with practical, small‑business‑focused strategies that prioritize results over complexity.