Energy Costs & Hotels: Hilton is rolling out an all-electric “Home2 Suites Clean Energy Prototype” aimed at cutting utility bills and emissions as hotel energy costs climb. AI for Small Business: A Federal Reserve Third District look finds AI adoption among small firms lags the national pace, while common uses center on writing/marketing and productivity. AI Governance: Sen. Tammy Baldwin urges Congress to add safeguards and independent oversight for AI before the election, with workforce protections a key theme. Crypto & Main Street: Rep. Brian Jack convened a hearing on how digital assets could reduce payment friction for small businesses, calling for clearer rules and education. Cross-Border Payments: Thunes will expand J.P. Morgan Payments’ Xpedite Remit to speed payouts to bank accounts and mobile wallets across 100+ corridors. Disaster Relief: Wayne County’s chamber-backed flood grants get an extra $50,000, with more help for first-time and repeat applicants. Local Contracting: Akron launches a race- and gender-neutral Small Business Enterprise program to bring small-business participation earlier in the contracting process. Health Insurance Pressure: A KFF report highlights families dropping ACA coverage after premium spikes, underscoring affordability strain on small-business-adjacent households. Exports Support: Indiana wins $765,000 for IN-STEP to help small firms expand exports and reach overseas customers. Energy Grid Fight: Wisconsin lawmakers push back on the BECI high-voltage line over farmland, property rights, and utility-cost concerns. Small Business Funding: USDA backs the Grand Junction Business Incubator with nearly $700K for rural microloans and technical assistance.