Disaster Aid & SBA Loans: Texas is asking the SBA to join preliminary damage assessments in Bexar County after August storms, using the state iSTAT portal to speed up whether federal help is triggered. Disaster Aid & SBA Loans: SBA disaster loans are now open in Idaho’s Latah, Clearwater and Nez Perce counties after March storms, with low-interest options for homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofits. Disaster Aid Outreach: SBA opened a disaster loan outreach center in DeKalb County, with walk-in help through Sept. 5 and a loan deadline of Oct. 5. Fraud & PPP Crackdowns: A Danville manufacturer agreed to pay $2.54M to settle allegations it received ineligible PPP funds. Homelessness Oversight: A House subcommittee asked Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass to testify on alleged fraud and misallocation tied to LAHSA, with small businesses cited as harmed by worsening conditions. Broadband Expansion: Federal officials cleared a policy change that lets Alaska redirect BEAD savings to newly identified unserved communities, potentially adding 5,000+ properties to funding eligibility. AI for Small Business: Hawaii and local business groups are pushing practical AI use, while a Florida report shows AI flyers can drive leads—if paired with human oversight for branding. Trade Pressure: A study finds many small exporters/importers say the Canada-U.S. trade war could make them financially unviable within months, and Canadian small firms warn tariffs could force supply switches or price hikes. Working Capital Watch: A survey highlights $1.7T in excess working capital trapped in accounts receivable, pointing to extended customer payment terms as a key drag. Retail Opportunity: Bliss Marketplace is taking over former Joann stores in Elk Grove and Folsom to expand a vendor-driven vintage and handmade marketplace.