What TikTok’s Ban Means + $400K for New Businesses & Financial Tips

 ✨ New Year, New Financial Goals:

We’re 11 days into the new year. The confetti’s been swept away, the champagne’s long gone, and we are "mostly" back to work by now. But before the busyness of life takes over, I want to ask you something important:
 

Are you setting new goals specifically, financial ones?
 

As your financial BFF, we wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t nudge you here.💜 But more than that, we believe that financial goals are about more than numbers, they’re about possibility. Reaching your dreams, the ones you’ve tucked away for later, and making them real.

We know finances can feel overwhelming, and let’s be honest: life gets busy. So, let’s keep it simple. I challenge you to follow just 3 small steps to make 2025 your best year yet:
 

⏰ Set short- and long-term goals: Dream big, but start small. Break your goals into manageable pieces.

• Example: Saving for a house? Start by putting aside $200/month in a high-yield savings account.

💰 Find easy ways to cut costs: Take control of your spending by reviewing your expenses. Make some calls and negotiate!

• Example: Lower your monthly bills by switching to a more affordable cell phone plan or canceling subscriptions you no longer use.

✅ Stay on track: Accountability is everything. Set calendar reminders to check your progress, celebrate wins, yes, even the small ones.
 

It’s about progress, not perfection. We’re here cheering for you every step of the way. Let’s make this year the one where you truly win. 💪

🦄 Join our liveworkshop:

Running a business takes grit, passion, and a whole lot of know-how. If you’ve ever felt lost staring at grant applications, loan docs, or pitch decks, trust us you’re not alone.

We’ve been there. And now, we want to share what we’ve learned. Join us for a live workshop on January 22nd at 3 PM ET where we’ll teach you:

💡 Build a winning strategies for grants, loans, and VC funding.
💡 Craft a standout pitch and business plan.
💡 Build a personal and business financial roadmap for growth.
 

The money’s out there, we want to help you get it. Seats are limited to keep this workshop hands-on.

 🎯 Upcoming Funding Opportunities:

🪐 $400,000 for New Business Owners

The SPC Founder Fellowship Spring program is offering $400,000 in funding for new business owners. This opportunity aims to help founders bring their ideas to life. 📅 Apply here by February 2nd.

💻 $10,000 for Technology Startups
The Bridging Innovation Pitch Competition is awarding $10,000 to technology startups ready to showcase their groundbreaking solutions. 📅 Apply here by January 15th.

🔨 $10,000 for Women in Skilled Trades

The Amber Grant for Women provides $10,000  to female entrepreneurs in skilled trades like carpentry, welding, and trucking. 📅 Apply here by January 31st.

💡 Need funding tailored to your biz? Just ask Vestie! or join our upcoming workshop.

🗞️ Making Headlines:

What the TikTok Ban Could Mean for Your Business

TikTok’s algorithm is a game changer, one of the few platforms where small business owners can go viral without spending big on ads. But with the potential TikTok ban looming, it’s a wake up call: Do you own your audience? Social media is a fantastic top of-funnel tool, but it’s risky to rely solely on platforms you don’t control. Algorithms change, apps come and go, but your relationship with your audience can remain solid if you focus on platforms you own.

Here’s what you can do right now to protect your brand and ensure continuity:

• Download and repurpose your content: Back up your best TikToks and use them on Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, or Pinterest.

• Build an email list: Offer a lead magnet (like a free guide) to get your followers onto your email list.

• Grow your community on owned platforms: Use WhatsApp groups, text lists, or your website to foster direct connections.

• Diversify your social strategy: Experiment with platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and even LinkedIn to expand your reach.