Local Business Spotlight: Gainesville’s Afternoon earned a spot in the Michelin Guide, becoming the first Gainesville restaurant on the list—an “anonymous” nod based on quality and freshness, not pay-to-play. New SBA Relief: The SBA opened low-interest Economic Injury Disaster Loans for drought-impacted small businesses and private nonprofits across Georgia, with Florida included in the declaration footprint. Workforce & Entrepreneurship: Florida State University’s Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship wrapped the first Leon County cohort of its Veteran Entrepreneurship Certificate Program, pairing veterans with training and mentorship to launch or grow businesses. Community Networks Theory: Tampa-area entrepreneur Hiten H. Bhuta unveiled a five-pillar “Closed-Loop Community Theory” aimed at explaining how trust-based networks can drive long-term entrepreneurial clustering. Property Tax Fight: Florida lawmakers advanced a homestead property tax phaseout to the November ballot, and Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward warned it could shift costs to renters and small businesses. Small Business Advocacy: Sen. Rick Scott introduced the DUMP Red Tape Act to create a more direct channel for small business owners to flag federal regulatory burdens. Tourism & Safety Clash: Florida dive operators are pushing back on a proposed federal ban on shark feeding, arguing it targets conservation-focused small businesses while leaving fishing practices alone. AI for SMBs: Boca Raton’s Secure Clicks AI says it’s expanding AI chatbot and automation tools plus virtual education events for small businesses and agencies. Real Estate Recognition: Pinellas Gulf Beaches STR specialist Cyndee Haydon was named among RealTrends Verified’s 2026 Best Real Estate Agents in the U.S.