2025-05-21T10:39:01

(BPT) – When individuals reach age 50, their risk of developing shingles increases, making it more important than ever to understand this painful condition and how to help prevent it.

Sam Picking, Walgreens Senior Director of Immunizations, answers common questions about shingles and explains why getting the shingles vaccine is a critical step for long-term health.

What is shingles and why is it a concern?

Shingles is a painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox. According to the CDC, more than 99% of Americans born before 1980 have had chickenpox, even if they don’t remember it.¹ After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate years later and cause shingles.

“Anyone who’s had chickenpox is at risk for developing shingles, which can lead to severe pain, complications like nerve damage, and even hospitalization,” said Picking. “Shingles affects one in three people in their lifetime, and the risk increases with age or a weakened immune system.”

What is the shingles vaccine and who should get it?

The CDC recommends two doses of the shingles vaccine — separated by two to six months — to help prevent shingles and related complications in adults 50 years and older.² The vaccine is also recommended for adults 19 years and older who have weakened immune systems.

The shingles vaccine is highly effective — in adults 50 years and older with healthy immune systems, it is 97% effective at preventing shingles and 91% effective at preventing its most common complication, postherpetic neuralgia, which can cause long-lasting, severe nerve pain.²

If you need another compelling reason to protect yourself from shingles, research shows that getting shingles may increase your long-term risk for heart disease.^3,4 In addition, emerging data shows there may also be other possible health benefits from the shingles vaccine.⁵

I’ve heard the shingles vaccine can be painful and make me feel bad — should I still get it?

Like all vaccines, the shingles vaccine may produce temporary side effects, which may last two to three days.² For most people, these side effects include a sore arm with mild or moderate pain, or redness and swelling at the injection site. A smaller number of individuals may experience other side effects like muscle pain, headache or fever.

“While some individuals may experience soreness or mild illness for a few days after getting the shingles vaccine, it is far less than the pain and discomfort associated with a shingles infection and any complications from the disease,” said Picking. “If you have any questions about the vaccine or its side effects, talk to your local Walgreens pharmacist — we’re here to help answer any questions or concerns you may have so you feel confident in your decision to receive this important vaccine.”

Walgreens offers flexible vaccination appointments, including nights and weekends, and walk-ins are welcome. To schedule a shingles vaccination appointment in English or Spanish, use the Walgreens app, visit Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine or call 1-800-WALGREENS.

What are the symptoms of shingles, and what should I do if I think I have it?

Shingles usually starts with pain, itching, or tingling on one side of the body or face, followed by a blistering rash.¹ Other symptoms may include fever, headache or fatigue.

“If you notice a rash or pain that seems unusual, especially on one side of your body, contact your healthcare provider right away,” said Picking. “Early treatment with antiviral medications can help shorten the duration and severity of the outbreak.”

And while shingles itself isn’t contagious, the virus that causes it is — if you’ve never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine, you could get chickenpox from someone with shingles.¹ This means it’s important to avoid close contact with vulnerable people, like babies, pregnant individuals, or anyone with a weakened immune system if you have an active shingles rash.

Walgreens: Your partner in health

The shingles vaccine is the only way to protect against shingles and serious complications from the disease. It’s available at Walgreens locations nationwide for adults aged 50 and older and younger individuals who are immunocompromised.

If you have any questions, our expert pharmacists are here to help navigate vaccination guidance and what is recommended for you and your loved ones.

Learn more at Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine.

Sources:

¹ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “About Shingles (Herpes Zoster).” January 17, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/about/

² Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Shingles Vaccination.” January 4, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/vaccines/

³ Lee, S., Lee, K., Oh, J. et al. “Live zoster vaccination and cardiovascular outcomes: a nationwide, South Korean study.” European Heart Journal. May 5, 2025. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehaf230

⁴ Curhan, SG., Kawai, K., Yawn, B. et al. “Herpes Zoster and Long-Term Risk of Cardiovascular Disease.” Journal of the American Heart Association. December 6, 2022. https://doi.org/10.1161/jaha.122.027451

⁵ Eyting, M., Xie, M., Michalik, F. et al. “A natural experiment on the effect of herpes zoster vaccination on dementia.” Nature. April 2, 2025. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-08800-x

2025-05-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – When you’re constantly juggling work, school, and home responsibilities, it’s easy to overlook your own well-being. But neglecting self-care can quickly lead to burnout, ultimately throwing your entire routine off track.

Dr. Gabriela Soza, Manhattan board-certified dermatologist and mother of two young children, knows firsthand how challenging self-care can be when you’re on-the-go. That’s why she recommends preparing a bag to carry all your essentials while you’re out and about.

But, what counts as an essential item? While those exact items may vary from person to person, Soza offers an easy organizational system.

“When organizing my must-haves, I tend to break them down into three core categories: health, wellness and skincare to freshen up throughout the day,” she said. “Once you’ve curated your items, use a removable bag insert or pouch to store them. That way, whether you choose a tote bag, backpack or large purse, you can easily transfer your essentials from bag to bag.”

Read on to learn about Soza’s personal “must-have” recommendations.

1. Health

Hand sanitizer: As a healthcare professional, Dr. Soza knows firsthand about the importance of hand hygiene. That’s why she emphasizes the importance of keeping hand sanitizer to reduce the risk of getting sick or spreading germs.

Soza recommends finding sanitizers that also moisturize your skin to prevent your hands from drying out, like Touchland’s Hydrating Hand Sanitizer.

Water bottle: Hydration is the key to good health, including healthy skin. To prevent dehydration and ensure you have access to water all day, Soza suggests carrying a water bottle in your bag. Pick out a water bottle that has a secure top so you can throw it into your bag without worrying that it will spill over. Fill it up before you leave the house and refill it as needed.

2. Skincare

SPF: Whether you have an extensive or bare-bones skincare routine, SPF products should always be on your essentials list. Even if you put on sunscreen before leaving the house, you’ll need to reapply throughout the day.

Dr. Soza’s personal pick is Neocutis Réactive+. This antioxidant serum offers broad spectrum SPF 45 to protect against skin-aging free radicals and harmful sun damage that causes premature skin aging.

“For over a decade, I’ve been continuously impressed by the consistent efficacy of Neocutis products,” said Soza. “As a dermatologist who constantly evaluates skincare for both myself and my patients, I appreciate that Neocutis products, such as Réactive+, are research-backed and actively support the skin’s collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, all while protecting the skin from free-radicals and harmful sun damage.”

Eye cream: The delicate skin under your eyes can have trouble retaining moisture. To keep your under-eyes hydrated throughout the day and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, make sure to include an eye cream in your essentials.

Choose a hydrating and brightening cream like Neocutis Lumiére^® Firm as a midday pick-me-up. Its advanced aging formulation moisturizes delicate skin while also improving firmness, elasticity and texture. Lumiére^® Firm is also designed to reduce puffiness, making it the perfect solution for moms on-the-go who need a quick and effective refresh.

Facial mist: During a hot day, it’s hard to keep your makeup looking good while beating the heat. That’s why it’s a smart idea to keep a facial mist on hand to freshen up!

Soza suggests finding a mist with skincare benefits that can be applied throughout the day like Avène Thermal Spring Water Spray. With just a few spritzes your skin will be soothed, letting you look and feel your best from morning to evening.

Lip balm: Lip balm isn’t just for hydrating your lips. Of course, its main purpose is to keep your lips moisturized and protected, but it’s an incredibly versatile weapon in your on-the-go arsenal. Soza’s “do-it-all” lip balm is Aquaphor as it can also tame flyways, hydrate dry cuticles, and quickly fix a dry skin patch.

3. Wellness

Headphones: Physical health items aren’t the only essentials you need to pack. Dr. Soza advises keeping a pair of headphones in your bag to give yourself a private escape. It’s a great way to center yourself with music, podcasts or audiobooks, even in public places. For example, she listens to music to relax when she’s commuting or in between patients.

Immunity stick packs: If you haven’t used immunity stick packs before, it’s time to start! As a new mom, Dr. Soza knows how important it is for moms to bolster their immune system, especially if they have small children.

She advises searching for your favorite flavored, pre-portioned stick packs that have vitamin C, electrolytes, zinc and antioxidants to help ward off colds year-round.

What’s in your bag?

No matter how busy your day is, you can give yourself the tools you need to support your health, wellness and skin. Using Soza’s essential recommendations, you can ensure you always have what you need to take care of yourself, even during your busiest seasons.

Sponsored by Merz Aesthetics.

2025-05-20T15:47:00

(BPT) – Does your dad love to cook? Is your dad a Marvel or Star Wars fan? Looking for a gift for a new dad? Disney publishing has the perfect gift for every dad.

For the chef:

From the oven to the grill, discover awesome recipes to test your dads’ culinary talents. These books are sure to satisfy his foodie side.

Star Wars: The Ultimate Cookbook

Discover over 80 recipes inspired by those in all corners of the Star Wars galaxy, including from the Skywalker Saga novels, its comics and more. Whatever your dad’s skill level, these recipes offer an immersive experience for Star Wars fans who also want to bring galactic adventures into their kitchen.

A Taste of Star Wars: Snacks

Your dad can experience the taste of a galaxy far, far away with this pocket-sized cookbook full of delicious snack recipes from Insight Editions’ best-selling Star Wars cookbooks. Twenty-six scrumptious snacks will take your dad’s taste buds on a mini tour of the galaxy. Celebrate Life Day over Wookiee-Ookiees, pay tribute to Darth Vader with hot Mustafarian Lava Buns, or fuel up for your next mission with Omega’s Popcorn Mix! Plus, there’s more sweet and savory snacks that are perfect for holidays, parties — and movie marathons.

Marvel: Spider-Man: The Official Cookbook

Does your dad love cooking as much as he loves Marvel comics? If so, this book is right up his alley — or the nearest tall building. The cookbook is narrated by the web-slinger himself, offering your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man’s guide to New York’s iconic cuisine through recipes like Aunt May’s Wheatcakes, Miles Morales’s Arañitas and Wong’s Chai Tea Latte. Over 60 recipes are paired with action-packed anecdotes that turn each meal into a culinary adventure.

For the Marvel fan:

Is your dad a fan of Marvel? Check out these great keepsakes for the ultimate Marvel experience.

Marvel Studios: 100 Objects

Dad will enjoy delving into these 100 key artifacts from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), discovering compelling stories on and about iconic items like Iron Man’s Mark I armor, Ant-Man’s cybernetic helmet, and Captain America’s vibranium shield — plus other lesser-known but still highly intriguing objects from the MCU. Dad will love going behind the scenes of his favorite films to uncover the significance of Doctor Strange’s Cloak of Levitation, Thor’s hammer Mjolnir, and more.

Marvel’s Avengers: The First 60 Years

This deluxe book celebrates 60 years of Marvel’s Avengers, featuring Captain America, Iron Man, the Hulk, Hawkeye, Black Panther, Quicksilver and many more, looking in-depth at their greatest battles, deadliest enemies — and unlikeliest allies. Lavishly illustrated with stunning art, this tribute also includes profiles of the talented creators behind the team’s ongoing adventures.

Marvel Comics Library. Avengers. 1963–1965

Is your dad an Avengers aficionado? This ultimate book tells the story of how the original Marvel Universe expanded into what is now known as the entire MCU. Presented by Kurt Busiek and illustrated by Jack Kirby and the iconic Stan Lee, this volume relates how the Fantastic Four, Spider-Man, Ant-Man, Dr. Strange, the Incredible Hulk, Iron Man and Thor were assembled to create The Avengers, using the most pristine pedigreed comics photographed for reproduction in collaboration with Marvel and Certified Guaranty Company, and digitally remastered.

Marvel Fitness Deck

Perfect for dads who love working out, this 50-card exercise deck by Marvel Entertainment and Robyn Warren will help them become health superheroes — and inspire kids to join in! This family-friendly deck brings fun to everyday exercise, Marvel-style. Created for a range of abilities, the step-by-step exercises demonstrate how working out is much more fun when you’re doing landing lunges with Spider-Man or smashing squats with the Hulk! Modifications explain how to take movements higher, further or faster, by adjusting them to your needs.

For the Star Wars fan:

Is your dad able to recite every line from his favorite Star Wars movie or link lightsabers with their owner? If so, check out these wonderful books.

Star Wars Encyclopedia

For dads most likely to enter a Star Wars trivia contest, there are over 2,200 entries in this volume that reveal vital facts about iconic characters, creatures, locations, vehicles and technology from a galaxy far, far away. Meticulously researched, expertly written and stunningly illustrated, the “Star Wars Encyclopedia” is an indispensable guide for devoted fans and newcomers alike.

Star Wars: The High Republic: The Lightsaber Collection

Discover over 50 lightsabers from the golden age of the Jedi with this essential guide to the elegant weapons from “Star Wars: The High Republic.” A follow-up to the best-selling “Star Wars: The Lightsaber Collection,” this exciting volume explores High Republic hilts, including designs illustrated in a photo-real manner for the first time. The perfect reference book for fans, model builders and collectors, this book is a must-have for dads looking to discover more about the legendary lightsabers from a fascinating period in Star Wars history.

The Star Wars Archives. 1977–1983

Writer, director and producer George Lucas formed Industrial Light & Magic to develop cutting-edge special effects, which he used to give audiences a unique sensory cinematic experience to weave his mythic tale of good and evil in a galaxy far, far away. In this volume by Paul Duncan, Lucas narrates his own story, taking readers through the making of the original trilogy and bringing fresh insights into the creation of this unique universe.

The Mandalorian and Child

Author of the best-selling “Darth Vader and Son” series Jeffrey Brown brings his charmingly funny take on the Star Wars galaxy to The Mandalorian. Dads and kids will enjoy reading about Din Djarin, the terse Mandalorian bounty hunter, as he travels the galaxy with the adorable Grogu. Whether he’s keeping Grogu from messing with the ship’s controls or stopping him from using the Force to steal extra snacks, Mando’s lessons as a caretaker are fun and recognizable to families everywhere.

For dads with young children:

Filled with beloved Disney characters, these books and cute stories are the perfect gift for dads to share with young children for years to come.

Disney Baby: Dad Loves Me!

Fathers love engaging with their babies! Kids and dads can read together here, plus press sound buttons to hear lion roars and more with members from Disney and Pixar families. This book by PI Kids comes with a built-in handle so little ones can carry it with them while they play!

I Love My Dad

Disney Princesses show their love for their dads in this book for ages 4–6 that’s perfect for Father’s Day. Merida, Rapunzel, Belle, Ariel and Jasmine all share special bonds with their fathers. Join them as they celebrate their dads in this Step 1 Step into Reading–leveled reader and sticker book that features big type and easy words for kids to read together with their dads.

I Love You, Dad

In this great gift for Father’s Day or any day, babies and their dads can lift the flap on each spread to see what Disney characters love about their dads! Messages of love come to life with this eye-catching, die-cut board book featuring chunky lift-the-flaps. “I Love You, Dad” is a book of relatable moments for dads and babies to share, time and time again.

With wonderful options to pick from, this curated list of books is perfect to select your Father’s Day gift. Visit Books.disney.com/occasion/fathers-day today.

2025-05-19T08:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is nearly here, and travelers everywhere are dreaming of the journeys they’ll take with friends and family. But there’s one aspect of road trip planning that often goes overlooked, and ironically, it’s the only part of the vehicle that touches the road: tires.

Tires aren’t always exciting. But before a car hits top speed, it’s crucial to make sure the rubber is up to speed.

How can drivers prepare their tires for road trip season? Here’s some advice from Nokian Tyres, which offers a Pothole Protection warranty for every tire that comes from its U.S. factory in Dayton, Tennessee. The inventor of the winter and all-weather tires offers more information, and a chance to win a set of tires, at NokianTyres.com/RoadTrips.

Check tire pressure

Drivers should make sure their tires are inflated to the recommended level. Low tire pressure makes blowouts more likely and harms gas mileage and EV range. High pressure can reduce traction and cause premature wear.

The recommended tire pressure can be found on a vehicle’s driver-side door jamb or owner manual. The easiest way to check tire inflation is with a pressure gauge. Gas station inflation machines also provide that info. If doubt remains, a local tire shop will gladly perform a check.

Make sure tread is deep enough

The shallower a tire’s tread, the less responsive it is to the road. That’s especially problematic on wet roads; the risk of hydroplaning increases when tread is too shallow.

How can drivers make sure tread depth is adequate? By putting a penny inside the tread and turning it upside down. If Abraham Lincoln’s head is fully visible, it’s time for a new set of tires.

For an even simpler approach, Nokian Tyres’ Driving Safety Indicator clearly displays how much tread is left at various points along the center of the tire’s tread. The percentage of remaining rubber is indicated in 20-percent increments from 80 percent to 40. The next symbol — a snowflake on winter tires and a rain drop on other products — tells drivers it’s time to replace their tires.

Get rotated and aligned

May is a good time to head to the tire shop for a tire rotation and alignment check. Nokian Tyres recommends rotating tires every 4,000 to 8,000 miles. Tires that aren’t regularly rotated are more likely to wear unevenly, which harms handling and efficiency. Of course, a trip to the tire shop will also feature a full wellness check, including a tire pressure test and a visual inspection to rule out tire damage.

Check the spare

Travelers never want to suffer a tire issue on the road, and Nokian Tyres’ Pothole Protection program helps with peace of mind. But it’s still important to make sure their spare tire is properly inflated and has sufficient tread depth, just in case a journey is derailed by a flat tire.

Between May 19 and 30, road trippers who aren’t confident in their tires have a chance to win new ones by visiting NokianTyres.com/RoadTrips. The site also features a road trip tire safety checklist, a tire selector tool and more resources to help drivers stay safe on their summer journeys.

2025-05-15T07:01:00

(BPT) – For decades, the American health care system has compensated doctors for each visit, test and procedure they provide — regardless of outcome. While fee-for-service remains important for many health care organizations, those adopting value-based care are finding it can be effective for improving patient outcomes and creating financial sustainability.

According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), this 19-year-old model has been steadily growing — more than 600,000 physicians and non-physicians were participating in an ACO in 2024, an increase of more than 35,000 from 2023.^1-2 The goal of value-based care is simple: better care, lower costs and healthier communities.

Why?

According to CMS, patients whose primary care organization has incorporated value-based care may have an easier time navigating their care while gaining access to educational resources to help them better understand their health issues.³ Their doctors can make more data-driven, personalized care decisions and treat the whole person, not just a specific health issue. This can lead to a more impactful and efficient doctor and patient interaction.

“I think value-based care is important for patients because it really does set the tone for wanting to focus on quality of care provided,” said Joel Ramirez, M.D., chief medical officer at Camarena Health in California. “It means looking at the patient in a comprehensive way. That’s looking not only at the medical diagnosis they may carry, but also what challenges they may have to lead a healthy life.”

Doctors who want to remain independent and still provide their patients with excellent care face many challenges, including financial pressures, navigating administrative workloads and fluctuating reimbursements, which can lead to hardship, according to the American Medical Association.⁴

Sohail Khwaja, executive director of Columbia Medical Practice in Maryland, said, “I believe the reason people have shied away from primary care is because of the burden of documentation. Everything that is required of primary care is very, very time-consuming, and value-based care is changing that … The focus is, again, on seeing a limited number of patients, but taking better care of them, as opposed to continuing to see more and more patients.”

For those looking to practice value-based care, the adoption can be made simpler thanks to physician-enablement companies like Aledade, founded in 2014.

Aledade partners with primary care organizations to help them succeed in value-based care models. Aledade has more than 2,400 practices and health centers across 46 states and Washington, D.C., serving nearly 3 million patients.

The benefits of value-based care

Aledade’s accountable care organizations (ACOs) provide preventive guidance and resources so clinicians are rewarded for keeping people healthy, not just for the quantity of procedures they perform. Aledade ACOs have generated more than $2 billion in savings, enabling partners to deliver better care, reward and hire staff, enhance their facilities and stay independent.⁵

Maureen Padden, M.D., of Emerald Coast Medical Group in Pensacola, Florida, said, “When you work with an ACO like Aledade that brings resources and experience to the table, you can thrive and not just survive. You can work smarter, or you can work harder. When you work smarter, you’re happier, your patients are happier, your family is happier, your earnings are better and patients get great care.”

Because value-based care helps doctors focus on early interventions and managing chronic conditions, patients can experience fewer complications and improved quality of life. As a result, doctors can cut costs by reducing hospital readmissions and avoidable procedures, easing administrative workloads and boosting staff satisfaction. Aledade offers experts who provide administrative support and clinical guidance to ease the transition to successful value-based care.

In 2023, Aledade partners avoided nearly 64,000 hospitalizations and emergency visits.⁶ Patients can enjoy a more personalized, coordinated care experience as their team collaborates across specialties to tailor treatment plans for long-term wellbeing.

Addressing common concerns from clinicians

A. Will this take away my clinical autonomy?

No. Data-driven insights sourced from across the care continuum empower doctors’ decision-making, supplying them with more information to make the best choices for their patients.

B. Will I lose money moving away from fee-for-service?

One of the key advantages of value-based care is the potential to reduce dependence on undervalued fee-for-service payments by promoting financial stability through quality measures.⁷

The lack of funding for primary care under the fee-for-service payment system underscores the significance and necessity of transitioning to value-based care — particularly for primary care organizations that wish to stay independent.

Other payment structures include capitation — where doctors receive a fixed payment per patient — bundled payments — which cover all services related to a condition over a set period — and performance-based payments, which reward doctors for meeting specific quality measures.

C. Is the transition too complex?

The transition to value-based care can be complicated. But the right ACO partner will give you a dedicated support team, set clear expectations and establish a reasonable, comfortable transition timeline.

The transition is further simplified through financial, administrative and technological solutions that help primary care organizations maintain their independence while improving their value-based care performance over time.

“Joining Aledade has been a game-changer for our practice. Their data-driven approach and hands-on support have allowed us to focus on what matters most — delivering high-quality care to our patients,” Cara Dennison, practice administrator for Andover Family Medicine in Kansas, said.

What are the best value-based care options for your practice?

When assessing value-based care options, it’s important to consider partnerships that can enhance success.

The best results, backed by research, have been among primary care organizations that partner with physician-enablement companies, such as Aledade.⁸

“It’s a deeper layer of care you don’t have when you’re out here alone,” Jeni Barham, chief quality control officer at Mainline Health Systems in Arkansas, said. “There’s always more to the patient and more to the picture that you don’t get to see unless you have a partner like Aledade that can get that information for you.”

Visit aledade.com/more-information to get started.

—————

1 2024 Shared Savings Program Fast Facts, CMS

2 2023 Shared Savings Program Fast Facts, CMS

3 Value-Based Care, CMS

4 “8 threats facing physician private practices,” American Medical Association

5 Aledade Expands Value-Based Care Network, Adding More than 500 Practices for 2025

6 Aledade Saved Medicare more than $800 Million in 2023

7 “Value-based Payment Models for Primary Care,” American Academy of Family Physicians

8 Value-Based Care Enablement Services 2024

2025-05-15T11:11:00

(BPT) – Small businesses are the heart of Main Street — and the backbone of the American economy. From neighborhood restaurants to veteran-owned logistics companies, these millions of entrepreneurs are responsible for driving innovation, creating jobs and keeping communities thriving.

Already a decades-long supporter of small businesses, Verizon is now stepping up with a bold new commitment to spend $5 billion with American small business suppliers over the next five years through a new program called the Small Business Supplier Accelerator. Services and resources under this program will help remove common obstacles that can make it difficult for small businesses to work as suppliers with Verizon or other large enterprises. This includes: regional workshops, faster payment terms, modified insurance requirements and adjusted indemnification requirements.

“Verizon recognizes that small businesses are the backbone of the American economy and a staple in our local communities,” said Hans Vestberg, CEO, Verizon. “Our long-standing commitment and investment in small businesses aims to empower local businesses and communities with financial, technology and business expertise and resources to advance economic growth and foster job creation.”

Verizon has been supporting small businesses for years through its free Small Business Digital Ready program, which offers small businesses nationwide the opportunity to access over 50 expert on-demand courses curated by and for small businesses, in addition to free 1:1 expert coaching and networking opportunities. Since 2021, Verizon has awarded $13.5 million in grants and impacted over 460,000 small businesses — with a goal to reach 1 million by 2030.

In partnership with the nonprofit LISC, Verizon also announced another Small Business Digital Ready grant opportunity where eligible small businesses who are Digital Ready members (and complete two resources) can apply for $10,000 grants (open until June 30, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. PT).

With a $5 billion commitment and a growing network of resources, Verizon is doubling down on its mission to help small businesses not just survive — but thrive. Whether it’s getting a foot in the door with major corporations or gaining access to capital, training and mentorship, Verizon is building a more resilient supply chain — one small business at a time.

Learn more here: https://www.verizon.com/about/our-company/small-business-supplier.

2025-05-15T15:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know small businesses comprise 99.9% of all businesses nationwide? Today’s small businesses are entering a new era, with smart, accessible technology helping to level the playing field, making it easier than ever to compete, grow and thrive. From AI-powered PCs and generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, to intuitive platforms like Canva, Square, Shopify, Mailchimp and QuickBooks Online, there’s technology available to support almost any business need today — no IT team required.

The result? Modern technology is opening doors to give small business owners powerful, affordable resources right at their fingertips. Technology helps entrepreneurs and small businesses automate everyday tasks, tackle challenges, streamline operations and scale smarter — proving that small really can be mighty.

This Small Business Month, business owners can celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit fueling economic growth and vibrant communities. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, here are practical insights to help your business thrive in today’s digital-first world.

Accessible resources drive impact

It’s vital to recognize that any size business needs to optimize today’s technological advances. In its third annual global CIO report, Lenovo found a whopping 96% of chief information officers expect to increase AI investments over the coming year. Additionally, 81% of CIOs say they’re leveraging third-party AI tools or deploying a mix of third-party and proprietary AI. Notably, 39% of CIOs are already seeing a positive return on their organization’s investment in AI.

Are most small businesses embracing new technologies? The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Teneo found that almost all small businesses (98%) are using AI-enabled tools and more than half (51%) use financial management tools like Intuit QuickBooks. In addition, nearly half of small businesses (47%) use four or more technology platforms and 40% use GenAI tools like chatbots and AI-powered image creation. In other words, adoption of new technologies is widespread, highlighting their importance in today’s business environment.

To get started, begin by identifying one key area of your business that could benefit from automation — whether it’s managing finances, improving customer service or streamlining marketing. From there, explore budget-friendly tools tailored to your business goals and tap into resources like mentorship programs and funding opportunities that can help you make informed decisions and implement tech with confidence. With the right support, small, strategic changes can unlock major efficiencies, setting the stage for long-term growth.

From underdog to top dog: Harness AI for big wins

AI isn’t just for large enterprises; in fact, Vena FP&A reports that 80% of staff who use AI and automation tools say they have become more productive. Interestingly, less experienced workers experienced a 35% productivity jump, proving AI can make a positive impact for organizations and individuals, regardless of skill level.

A McKinsey report from March 2025 found 21% of organizations using generative AI say their businesses have fundamentally redesigned at least some of their workflows, resulting in cost savings. Lenovo’s global 2025 CIO Playbook reports that AI spending expectations by IT decision-makers will nearly triple in 2025 compared with last year. The bottom line: Nearly half of organizations (42%) believe AI-powered devices boost employee productivity and experience. That’s why an overwhelming 90% are piloting, planning or exploring AI-powered PC rollouts in the mid-to-long term.

The takeaway for small business owners? You don’t need to overhaul everything, but focusing on one area of your business to leverage AI can drive meaningful results.

Resources to help businesses grow

When seeking resources to optimize technology for your business, start by identifying top technology priorities. Key places to start include improving cybersecurity, using project management tools to streamline workflows and automating tasks like email marketing and inventory management. You can find information and resources on the U.S. Small Business Administration website.

In addition, programs like Lenovo’s Evolve Small are dedicated to championing North American small businesses. This year, Evolve Small is introducing the AI Grant, designed to demystify AI for small businesses and help integrate AI into their everyday operations. The grant, which will be awarded to eligible businesses, includes $25K in grant funding, a comprehensive, customized Lenovo technology package valued at $10K, AI training, plus access to mentorship, mental health and leadership coaching and community support.

There are also free resources available for any small business to leverage through the Lenovo Pro Community site, such as on-demand workshops and courses on AI PCs, informational guides on building your tech stack, data security, emotional intelligence and more.

By investing in key resources and embracing AI, Lenovo aims to empower small businesses to compete effectively with larger companies, ensuring they remain the beating heart of local communities.

Small biz, big impact

Small businesses are crucial to local economies, serving as cultural cornerstones by creating jobs and fostering innovation. In today’s AI-driven landscape, technology isn’t a luxury, it’s a lifeline. When harnessed thoughtfully, even the leanest operations can unlock smarter workflows, sharper marketing and stronger customer relationships.

Fortunately, adopting newer and better technology does not have to break the bank or be overly complicated. The key is finding what suits your unique business needs and budget. With the right tools, support and mindset, small business owners can compete at a higher level than ever before — and win. Whether you’re looking to simplify operations, better connect with customers or scale sustainably, now’s the time to act.

Ready to embrace technology and bring your business to the next level? Explore resources, get inspired by real small business success stories and discover how the Evolve Small program is helping small businesses across the country thrive at Lenovo.com/EvolveSmall.