To 'colaeb' means to collaborate and elevate. The word is pronounced just like 'collab' but the 'ae' spelling signifies the difference. The term "Collaborate and elevate" is a phrase that encourages individuals or entities to work together and strive for improvement, growth, or advancement. It combines the concepts of collaboration and elevation, popularized by the website collaborateandelevate.com

1. Collaborate: Collaboration refers to the act of working together with others towards a common goal or objective. When individuals collaborate, they bring together their skills, knowledge, and resources to achieve something collectively. Collaboration emphasizes cooperation, communication, and synergy, with the aim of accomplishing more through combined efforts than what could be achieved individually.
2. Elevate: To elevate means to raise or lift something to a higher level. In the context of "collaborate and elevate," it signifies the intention to improve, enhance, or uplift the quality, impact, or significance of the collaborative effort. It involves striving for excellence, pushing boundaries, and seeking opportunities for growth and advancement.

Together, 'colaeb' or "collaborate and elevate" promotes the idea of working together in a collaborative manner while aiming for improvement, progress, or advancement. It suggests that by joining forces and leveraging collective strengths, individuals can achieve higher levels of success, productivity, or innovation. The phrase encourages a mindset of continuous improvement and the pursuit of excellence through collaborative endeavors.

by Lenny Burkett

We've learned a lot of lessons from building Stopwatch Creative, working with numerous agencies and other creatives around the world on a plethora of campaigns. In building, Collaborate and Elevate, a SaaS company helping businesses grow approaching over 1000 active paying customers, we've been able to partner with numerous companies to understand their customer's pain points. 

It's safe to say that finding a reliable marketing company that aligns with your brand's values can be a game-changer. Here are a few steps to help you on your journey:

1️⃣ Define Your Brand: Start by clearly defining your brand's mission, values, and goals. Understand what sets you apart and what you stand for.

2️⃣ Research and Referrals: Conduct thorough research to identify marketing companies that specialize in your industry. Seek referrals from trusted sources, such as fellow entrepreneurs or industry professionals.
​
3️⃣ Portfolio and Track Record: Review the portfolios and case studies of potential marketing companies. Look for evidence of successful campaigns, results-driven strategies, and a track record of delivering value to clients. View some of the Case Studies under the 'See How We've Helped' section on Stopwatch Creative.

4️⃣ Cultural Fit: Assess the cultural fit between your brand and the marketing company. Do they understand and appreciate your brand's values? Are they aligned with your target audience?

5️⃣ Communication and Collaboration: Engage in open and transparent communication with prospective marketing agencies. Discuss your brand's vision, expectations, and desired outcomes. Evaluate their ability to listen, understand, and collaborate effectively. This is one important feature contributing to Collaborate and Elevate's growth the past year!

6️⃣ Client Testimonials: Reach out to current or past clients of the marketing companies you're considering. Inquire about their experiences, level of satisfaction, and whether the agency truly lived up to their promises.

7️⃣ Contract and Terms: Carefully review the contract, terms, and pricing structure offered by the marketing company. Ensure they align with your budget and long-term goals.

Remember, finding the right marketing company is a crucial investment in your brand's success. Take your time, ask the right questions, and trust google as well as your instincts to find a partner that not only understands your vision but also shares your values.

Good luck! 🚀

by Lenny Burkett

This is a great interview about how Charles runs MACRO, the vision, and the formation of some of these amazing ideas that he is working on!

​Charles D. King is Founder & CEO of MACRO, a multi-platform media company representing the voice and perspectives of people of color. Mr. King casts the overall vision, mission and strategic goals for the company’s multiple business verticals, which include a film and television studio, talent and influencer management divisions, a branding and creative agency and an affiliated venture firm.

Launched in 2015, the Company has produced and/or financed thirteen feature films to date, including Judas And The Black Messiah, starring Daniel Kaluuya and LaKeith Stanfield; Just Mercy, starring Michael B. Jordan, Jamie Foxx and Brie Larson; Sorry to Bother You, starring LaKeith Stanfield and Tessa Thompson; Mudbound and Fences, the film adaptation of the Tony-Award winning play by August Wilson which starred Denzel Washington and Viola Davis. MACRO’s projects have earned fifteen Academy Award nominations and three wins for Davis in Fences, Kaluuya in Judas and H. E.R. for Judas as well as numerous other nominations. He secured a co-financing, first look deal with Warner Bros. pictures in 2019. Through its Television Studio, MACRO produced the global hit “Raising Dion,” which debuted on Netflix in 2019 and went on to become the streamer’s #1 Kids and Family show worldwide; as well as 2020’s Latinx dramedy “Gentefied.”

Before launching MACRO, Charles formerly was Partner/Agent in the motion picture department at William Morris Endeavor (WME.) He is the first African American to rise from the training program in the BH office film and TV group to Partner in that company’s 100+ year history, and the first African American partner of any major talent agency. An active angel investor and dedicated philanthropist, he is a member of AMPAS and sits on several non-profit boards, including Paley Media, the Sundance Institute, and College Track.

Watch The Breakfast Club interview below:

by Team Stopwatch Creative

Introducing Stopwatch Creative: Your Partner in Elevating Brand Awareness and Driving Profitability!

At Stopwatch Creative, we specialize in helping businesses like yours reach new heights by maximizing brand awareness and driving profitability. As a forward-thinking marketing agency, we are dedicated to providing customized solutions that empower your brand to stand out in today's competitive landscape.

Our team of skilled professionals understands the critical role that brand awareness plays in attracting and retaining customers. We employ a strategic and comprehensive approach to craft tailored campaigns that captivate your target audience. Through a combination of cutting-edge digital strategies, creative content development, and impactful traditional advertising methods, we ensure that your brand is seen and remembered by the right people.

But we don't stop at just raising awareness. At Stopwatch Creative, we believe that true success lies in delivering measurable results. We analyze data, track conversions, and optimize your marketing funnels to ensure that your increased visibility translates into increased profitability. By identifying the most effective channels and refining your customer journey, we help you attract qualified leads and drive sustainable growth for your business.

When you partner with Stopwatch Creative, you gain a dedicated ally invested in your success. We take the time to understand your unique brand, industry, and target market, allowing us to develop strategies that resonate with your audience. Our collaborative and transparent approach keeps you informed every step of the way, with regular reports and updates on campaign performance.

Ready to take your brand to new heights? Contact Stopwatch Creative today and let us help you elevate brand awareness, drive profitability, and unlock the full potential of your business. Together, we'll make your brand shine brighter than ever before.

by Lenny Burkett

Public interest technology (PIT) is a term used to describe the use of technology to promote the public good and advance social justice. It involves applying technological expertise and resources to address social and civic challenges, such as improving access to healthcare or education, promoting government transparency and accountability, or mitigating the impact of climate change.

PIT is a multidisciplinary field that draws on a range of expertise, including computer science, design, law, policy, and social sciences. It involves collaboration between technologists, policymakers, and community stakeholders to identify and address societal challenges, and to ensure that technology is developed and used in a way that benefits the public.
​
Examples of PIT initiatives include Collaborate and Elevate, developing tools and platforms to promote civic engagement, advocating for policies that protect privacy and civil liberties, and using data analytics to identify and address systemic inequalities. The goal of PIT is to ensure that technology is used in a way that advances the public interest and helps to create a more just and equitable society.

This pic was taken in the Stanford Article "Public Interest Technology: Bridge to the Future"

"The public interest technology discipline calls on tech companies to embed public interest values not just in isolated initiatives, but at every level of an organization’s operations. In doing so, companies can generate meaningful value both in terms of profits, but more importantly, for communities and customers to rebuild their trust.

By fostering a new vanguard of cross-disciplinary experts to work across sectors and empowering them with the resources they need to succeed, we can bridge the gaps between the public interest and technology to power a more just and inclusive future for all."

How can I get involved?

There are a number of ways to get involved in public interest technology (PIT), depending on your interests and skills. Here are some suggestions:

1. Join a PIT organization: There are a growing number of organizations that focus on PIT, such as Code for America, DataKind, and the TechCongress. These organizations provide opportunities to volunteer, network with like-minded individuals, and gain valuable experience in the field.
   
2. Attend PIT events and conferences: Many organizations and universities host events and conferences focused on PIT. Attending these events can help you learn more about the field, meet other professionals and advocates, and gain insights into emerging trends and best practices.
   
3. Get educated: Many universities now offer courses and degree programs focused on PIT. Pursuing education in this field can provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to make a difference in the world of technology and social justice.
   
4. Volunteer your skills: If you have expertise in a particular area of technology, consider volunteering your skills to organizations that could benefit from your knowledge. For example, you might offer to help a local non-profit with their website, or assist a community group with data analysis.
   
5. Advocate for PIT policies: You can also get involved in advocating for policies that support PIT. This might involve working with advocacy organizations to promote policies that protect privacy and civil liberties, or lobbying elected officials to fund PIT initiatives.
   

Overall, there are many ways to get involved in PIT. By working together, we can use technology to promote the public good and create a more just and equitable society.

by Lenny Burkett

Jason Salmon’s comedy has been described as "Like getting the best advice you’ve ever gotten from the dumbest guy you know." So enjoy his charming take on Life, Love, Generation X, getting pedicures, and why Texas & New York City are actually a lot alike. And stay for the twist ending that makes this standup special just a little bit different.

Watch his standup below, shot by Four by Three:

1) 
​
Insufficient Market Demand:
One of the primary reasons businesses fail is a lack of market demand for their products or services. If there isn't enough customer interest or a viable market for what the business offers, it becomes challenging to generate consistent revenue

Solution:
Conduct thorough market research and feasibility studies before launching a business. Identify and validate a target market with genuine demand for the product or service. Continuously monitor market trends and adapt offerings to align with customer needs.

2)

Poor Financial Management:
Inadequate financial planning, poor cash flow management, excessive debt, or failure to control costs can quickly lead to financial distress. Businesses need sound financial management to sustain operations and weather economic challenges.

Solution:
Develop a comprehensive financial plan and regularly track and analyze key financial metrics. Implement robust cash flow management practices and seek professional advice when necessary. Maintain a healthy balance between revenue generation and cost control.

3)

Ineffective Leadership:
Weak leadership can hinder decision-making, strategic planning, and effective execution. Lack of vision, poor communication, and an inability to adapt to changing market conditions can undermine a business's chances of success.

Solution:
Invest in leadership development and training programs. Foster a culture of open communication, collaboration, and empowerment. Surround yourself with a strong management team and seek mentorship or coaching to enhance leadership skills.

4)

Inadequate Planning and Strategy:
Businesses that lack a clear plan and strategic direction often struggle to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. A well-defined business plan, market analysis, and strategic vision are crucial for long-term success.

Solution:
Create a well-defined business plan that includes a clear vision, mission, and goals. Conduct regular strategic planning sessions to assess market dynamics, identify opportunities, and formulate actionable strategies. Continuously review and adapt the plan as needed.​

5)

Failure to Adapt to Market Changes:
Markets are dynamic, and businesses that fail to adapt to evolving customer needs, emerging technologies, or industry trends can quickly become obsolete. Flexibility and agility are essential to survive and thrive in a competitive landscape.

Solution:
​Stay vigilant and monitor market trends, emerging technologies, and customer preferences. Foster a culture of innovation and agility within the organization. Encourage experimentation and embrace change to proactively adapt and stay ahead of the competition.

6)
​
Strong Competition:
Intense competition can make it difficult for businesses to gain market share, differentiate themselves, or maintain profitability. Failure to effectively position and differentiate the business from competitors can lead to struggles or failure.

Solution:
Conduct a competitive analysis to identify unique value propositions and differentiation points. Develop a strong brand identity and communicate it effectively to target customers. Continuously innovate and improve products or services to maintain a competitive edge.​

7) 

Operational Inefficiencies:
Inefficient processes, poor supply chain management, or operational bottlenecks can erode profitability and customer satisfaction. Businesses need streamlined operations to deliver products or services efficiently and maintain a competitive edge.

Solution:
Streamline processes and identify areas for optimization. Invest in automation tools and technology to improve efficiency. Regularly review supply chain management practices and seek ways to reduce costs and enhance productivity.

8)

Inadequate Marketing and Sales:
Businesses that struggle to effectively market their offerings, reach their target audience, or convert leads into customers may face challenges in generating revenue. A lack of marketing strategy or ineffective sales tactics can hinder growth.

Solution:
Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes targeted campaigns, digital marketing initiatives, and effective sales tactics. Invest in market research to understand customer needs and preferences. Continuously analyze and optimize marketing efforts based on data-driven insights.

9) 

Ignoring Customer Feedback:
Failing to listen to customer feedback, ignoring complaints, or not addressing customer needs can harm a business's reputation and customer loyalty. Businesses must prioritize customer satisfaction and continuously improve their products or services based on customer insights.

Solution:
Prioritize customer satisfaction and actively seek feedback through surveys, reviews, and customer support channels. Implement a robust customer feedback management system and use insights to improve products, services, and overall customer experience.

10) 

Lack of Adaptability and Resilience:
Businesses that are unable to adapt to unforeseen circumstances, economic downturns, or disruptive events may struggle to survive. Resilience, flexibility, and the ability to pivot in response to challenges are crucial for long-term sustainability.

Solution:
Develop contingency plans and risk management strategies to mitigate potential disruptions. Foster a culture of adaptability, encourage innovation, and empower employees to embrace change. Stay informed about industry trends and be proactive in anticipating and responding to challenges.​

by Lenny with Stopwatch Creative

A/B testing is a valuable technique that allows marketers to compare different variations of marketing elements and identify which ones perform better in terms of achieving desired outcomes. Here are a few examples of how A/B testing has helped improve marketing strategies that we've learned approaching a decade running Stopwatch Creative:

1. Email Marketing: A company decides to A/B test two different subject lines for their email campaign. Version A features a straightforward and descriptive subject line, while Version B incorporates a more creative and attention-grabbing subject line. By sending both versions to segments of their email list, they can track open rates and click-through rates. If Version B generates significantly higher open and click-through rates, it indicates that the creative subject line is more effective at capturing the audience's attention and driving engagement. This insight allows the company to refine their email marketing strategy by using more compelling subject lines in future campaigns.
2. Landing Page Optimization: An e-commerce business wants to improve the conversion rate on their product landing page. They create two variations of the page: Version A has a long-form layout with detailed product descriptions, while Version B has a shorter layout with bullet points highlighting key features. By splitting incoming traffic and measuring conversion rates, they can determine which version leads to more purchases. If Version B outperforms Version A with a higher conversion rate, it suggests that a concise and visually appealing layout resonates better with their audience. The company can then optimize their landing pages accordingly to improve conversions.
3. Call-to-Action (CTA) Testing: A software company wants to enhance the effectiveness of their CTAs on their website. They A/B test two different button colors: Version A has a green CTA button, while Version B has an orange CTA button. By monitoring click-through rates and conversion rates, they can determine which button color prompts more user engagement. If Version B yields higher click-through and conversion rates, it indicates that the orange button stands out more effectively and motivates users to take action. The company can then incorporate the winning button color across their website to boost overall conversion rates.

These examples highlight how A/B testing provides valuable insights into consumer preferences and behavior, enabling marketers to make data-driven decisions. By continually testing and optimizing marketing elements, businesses can refine their strategies, improve customer experiences, and achieve better results. Learn more about Stopwatch Creative on stopwatchcreative.com

​Good luck!

by Team Stopwatch Creative

At Stopwatch Creative, we employ various methods to track conversions and measure the effectiveness of our marketing strategies. Here are some key approaches we utilize:

1. Conversion Tracking: We set up conversion tracking mechanisms to monitor specific actions that align with your business goals. This could include tracking website conversions such as purchases, form submissions, newsletter sign-ups, or other desired actions. By implementing tracking codes or pixels on your website or landing pages, we can identify and measure the number of conversions generated through our marketing efforts.
2. Analytics Tools: We leverage powerful analytics tools such as Google Analytics or other third-party platforms to gain insights into website traffic, user behavior, and conversion data. These tools provide valuable information about the performance of your marketing campaigns, including traffic sources, click-through rates, bounce rates, and conversion rates. With this data, we can assess the effectiveness of different marketing channels, campaigns, and messaging.
3. A/B Testing: We conduct A/B tests to compare different variations of marketing elements, such as headlines, call-to-action buttons, landing page layouts, or ad creatives. By splitting your audience and presenting them with different versions, we can measure which variations generate higher conversion rates. This data-driven approach allows us to refine and optimize our strategies based on real-time results.
4. CRM Integration: If you have a customer relationship management (CRM) system in place, we can integrate it with our marketing efforts. This integration enables us to track and attribute conversions to specific marketing campaigns or channels, providing a holistic view of customer interactions and their journey from initial touchpoints to conversion. It helps us assess the ROI (Return on Investment) of different marketing initiatives and make data-informed decisions.
5. Performance Reporting: We provide regular performance reports that highlight key metrics and insights related to your marketing campaigns. These reports outline the progress made towards your goals, including conversion metrics, campaign reach, engagement levels, and other relevant KPIs (Key Performance Indicators). By analyzing these reports, we can identify areas of success, areas for improvement, and adjust our strategies accordingly.

Overall, our approach to tracking conversions and measuring marketing effectiveness combines the use of technology, data analysis, and ongoing optimization. By continuously monitoring and evaluating campaign performance, we ensure that our strategies align with your business objectives and drive tangible results. Learn more about Stopwatch Creative on stopwatchcreative.com

​Filmed at the iconic Comedy Attic in Bloomington, Indiana, Dwight Simmons takes us through being newly married, growing up in two different environments, and learning what you can't say on HGTV. Watch the special shot by Four By Three Productions below:

Dirty Coin is an independently produced documentary currently in production. (2023)

Follow them on Twitter and connect with Alana on Linkedin for more frequent updates. 

​🌟 Calling all knowledge seekers! 🌟


✨ Join Innovate New Albany for an extraordinary opportunity to tap into the collective wisdom of 16 brilliant minds! ✨


🗓️ Date: Friday, June 2
⏰ Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm EST
📍 Location: Virtual


📣 Innovate New Albany is thrilled to announce FREE office hours featuring 16 industry experts in their respective fields ~ Tristan Ruml, Shwetha T. Pai, Tushar Kulkarni, Sandy Murphy, Kaylee Willis, Megan Neff, Roberta Winch, Ryan Steele, Scott Longnecker, Kevin Hammond, Lora Brown - Bookkeeping Simplified By Lora, Johna Charles, Satish Albert, Susan Fortner, APR, and Ed Porter!


Whether one is an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or simply curious about the latest trends, this event is tailor-made for them!


🌱 This event is a vibrant garden of knowledge where participants can plant their questions, ideas, and aspirations and watch them flourish. The panel of experts brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and a genuine passion for sharing their insights.


🔍 Here's a sneak peek of the diverse fields the experts specialize in:
1️⃣ Marketing and Branding
2️⃣ Finance and Investment
3️⃣ Technology and Innovation
4️⃣ Legal and Intellectual Property
5️⃣ Human Resources and Leadership
6️⃣ Sales and Business Development
...and many more!


🙌 This unique opportunity allows individuals to connect one-on-one with these experts during dedicated office hours. They can expect personalized guidance, industry tips, and the chance to gain invaluable perspectives from those who have already walked the path they're embarking on.


💡 Whether attendees have burning questions, seek mentorship, or seek a fresh perspective, this event caters to their needs. The experts are here to help them navigate the challenges, seize opportunities, and unlock their full potential.


🌟 Remember, knowledge grows exponentially when shared, and Innovate New Albany believes in fostering a supportive community of lifelong learners. Attendees shouldn't miss out on this chance to connect with like-minded individuals, expand their network, and cultivate meaningful relationships with professionals in their field.


🚀 Participants should mark their calendars, spread the word, and join Innovate New Albany for an unforgettable day of learning, growth, and inspiration. Together, let's ignite innovation and positively impact our respective industries!


🌐 Visit the website https://innovatenewalbany.org/new-event/expert-office-hours-friday-june-2/ for more information and to reserve a spot. Seats are limited, so don't wait too long!


🤝 Let's learn, connect, and empower each other. See everyone at Innovate New Albany's Free Office Hours! 🎉


#InnovateNewAlbany #OfficeHours #KnowledgeExchange #Empowerment #founders #tech #community

by Lenny Burkett

In Richmond, Virginia, Comfort Keepers, a leading senior caregiving company, stands ready to provide compassionate and dedicated care for families in need. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by seniors and their loved ones, Comfort Keepers' team is committed to delivering the support required during this important journey.

With a deep sense of empathy, Comfort Keepers' caregivers prioritize the physical, emotional, and social well-being of their clients. Through careful selection and comprehensive training, these dedicated professionals possess the necessary skills, experience, and nurturing qualities to offer exceptional care.

From assistance with daily activities to providing companionship and specialized care, the Comfort Keepers team ensures that each service is tailored to meet the unique needs of every family. Whether it involves personal care, medication management, or simply engaging in meaningful conversations and activities, Comfort Keepers' caregivers are there every step of the way.

​Open communication is highly valued at Comfort Keepers, and families are actively involved in the development of personalized care plans for their loved ones. Regular updates on their progress are provided, ensuring that families remain informed and involved throughout the caregiving journey.

At the heart of Comfort Keepers is the belief that family well-being is paramount. They strive to create a safe, comfortable, and nurturing environment that promotes independence, dignity, and overall happiness. By fostering genuine connections and building trust, Comfort Keepers' caregivers become an extended family for their clients.

Families can experience peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are in the caring hands of highly trained professionals from Comfort Keepers. The company is dedicated to providing dependable, reliable, and compassionate senior care in Richmond, Virginia.

For those seeking support and comfort for their family members, reaching out to Comfort Keepers can be a transformative step. By working together, families can enhance their loved ones' quality of life, enabling them to age gracefully and cherish meaningful moments every day. Contact Comfort Keepers today to learn more about the compassionate care they provide and how they can support your family during this important time.

On this episode, Bijan Machen connects with Kyle ✨ Kemper! Kyle is a technologist, cryptocurrency expert, and author and serves as Chief Solutions Officer @ Raze, a SaaS private fundraising platform. Kyle and Bijan discuss life, entrepreneurship, spirituality, an abundance mindset, and more!

By Saundra Latham, Editor at LinkedIn News

It’s official: Twitter has a new CEO. Linda Yaccarino, head of global advertising and partnerships at NBCUniversal, will take over the top job from Elon Musk, who acquired Twitter in October for $44 billion. Musk confirmed Yaccarino’s hiring Friday, saying she will “focus primarily on business operations, while I focus on product design and new technology.” Musk said Thursday that he will transition to new roles as executive chair and chief technology officer.

"I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Chief Executive Officer at Twitter. I’ve long been inspired by Elon Musk's vision to create a brighter future. Now, I’m excited to help bring that vision to Twitter and transform the business together. Everyone's feedback is VITAL to Twitter's future. And I’m here for all of it. Let’s please keep the conversation going and build Twitter 2.0 together!" Linda mentioned on Linkedin.

by Lenny Burkett

Marketing is essential for small businesses and startups because it helps them reach their target audience, build brand awareness, and establish a strong online presence. Small businesses often operate on tight budgets and limited resources, making it crucial to make every marketing effort count. Effective marketing helps these businesses connect with potential customers and generate leads, which can lead to increased sales and revenue. In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is also critical for small businesses and startups to remain competitive and relevant. By investing in marketing efforts, small businesses can establish themselves as a credible and trustworthy brand, which can help attract and retain customers over the long term.

1. Social media marketing - Use platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to reach your target audience and build brand awareness.
2. Email marketing - Build a subscriber list and use email campaigns to keep your customers engaged and informed about your products or services.
3. Google My Business - Optimize your business profile on Google to increase your visibility in search results and attract more local customers.
4. Content marketing - Create valuable content, such as blog posts or videos, that educates and informs your audience and establishes your business as an authority in your industry.
5. Pay-per-click advertising - Use platforms like Google Ads or Facebook Ads to target specific keywords or demographics and drive traffic to your website.
6. Influencer marketing - Partner with influencers or micro-influencers in your industry to promote your products or services to their audience.
7. Referral marketing - Encourage your satisfied customers to refer their friends and family to your business and offer incentives for referrals.
8. Community involvement - Participate in local events or sponsor local charities to build relationships with your community and increase brand awareness.
9. Direct mail - Send physical mailers, such as postcards or flyers, to your target audience to promote your business and drive conversions.
10. Customer reviews - Encourage your customers to leave reviews on platforms such as Google, Yelp, or social media to build trust and attract new customers.

Are you looking to take your business to the next level? Learn more about Stopwatch Creative, a full service marketing agency and business growth software platform Collaborate and Elevate. 

by Lenny Burkett

​As collaborateandelevate.com, a software platform we launched when the pandemic began to help keep businesses open, is approaching 1000 customers across various industries in the USA, we understand the importance of marketing support and customer service for businesses of all sizes. Whether you are an entrepreneur, small business owner, startup, or large enterprise, your success hinges on your ability to reach your target audience and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

At CollaborateandElevate.com, we have had numerous experiences with marketing support in person and online. We understand in-person marketing experiences are essential for establishing solid relationships with potential clients and partners. We have attended industry events, tradeshows, and conferences to connect with new businesses and showcase our software platform to potential clients. These events have provided valuable opportunities to network and gain insight into our target market. However, we understand that in-person marketing is only sometimes feasible or cost-effective, especially for smaller businesses.

by Manny Larcher

Purchase order financing can be a great way for product owners to secure the necessary funding to fulfill large orders. Here are ten tips to help product owners navigate the process of purchase order financing:

1. Understand the basics of purchase order financing: Purchase order financing involves getting an advance on the funds needed to fulfill a customer's purchase order. The financing company provides the funds needed to pay suppliers, allowing the product owner to fulfill the order.
2. Determine if purchase order financing is the right option: Purchase order financing can be an attractive option for product owners who need funding to fulfill large orders but do not have the capital to do so. However, it is important to carefully evaluate the costs and benefits before committing to this type of financing.
3. Find a reputable financing company: Research financing companies to find one that specializes in purchase order financing and has a strong track record of success. Look for a company with experience in your industry and that has good customer reviews.
4. Understand the financing terms: Make sure you understand the financing terms, including the interest rates, fees, and repayment schedule. Look for a financing company that offers competitive rates and flexible repayment terms.
5. Develop a plan for using the funds: Before accepting financing, develop a plan for how you will use the funds to fulfill the customer's order. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the costs involved and that the financing will cover the necessary expenses.
6. Maintain good relationships with suppliers: Purchase order financing involves paying suppliers upfront, so it is important to maintain good relationships with them. Communicate clearly and regularly to ensure that they are aware of your needs and can deliver the required goods on time.
7. Stay organized and keep accurate records: Keep detailed records of all transactions related to the purchase order financing. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you can quickly provide any necessary documentation to the financing company.
8. Manage cash flow carefully: Purchase order financing can help with short-term cash flow needs, but it is important to manage cash flow carefully to ensure that you can repay the financing company on time.
9. Be prepared for due diligence: Financing companies will conduct due diligence before providing purchase order financing. Be prepared to provide financial statements, business plans, and other documentation to demonstrate your ability to fulfill the order.
10. Use purchase order financing wisely: Purchase order financing can be a valuable tool for product owners, but it should be used wisely. Make sure you understand the costs and risks involved and use the funds to fulfill orders that will generate a return on investment.