SME Job Creation Push: Infosys chair Nandan Nilekani argues AI-proofing economies means job creation through millions of small firms, not just big employers. Defense Contract Access: The U.S. SBA will prioritize applications from individually owned small businesses in defense-critical industries for its disadvantaged small business contracting assistance. Main Street Sentiment: NFIB’s Small Business Optimism Index dipped in August, with uncertainty still elevated as owners juggle weaker sales, supply chain issues, and rising costs. SME Finance Relief (Pacific): MBf Bank and Business Link Pacific cut borrowing costs for Tongan SMEs via a new NZ$1m lending facility, including support for women-led enterprises. Digital Tools for Growth (Ghana): MTN Ghana runs an SME clinic to boost adoption of connectivity, Microsoft 365 productivity, security, and market access. Trade Risk for Small Firms: UNCTAD warns Strait of Hormuz disruptions could trigger an “SME exclusion effect,” pushing smaller companies out of supply chains as freight, insurance, and financing costs spike. Stablecoins in Community Banking: Coinbase and Moov partner to embed regulated stablecoin infrastructure into payments used by 1,000+ U.S. community banks and credit unions. Cyber Insurance Watch: QBE highlights how New Zealand’s tighter cyber rules are pushing more businesses to seek cyber coverage and resilience planning. Local Business Boost: Elk Grove’s Diversity Dining Week returns with discounts across 40+ independently owned restaurants.