Highland Park to get new knitting, craft shop
Why it matters: Nicole Nayima will open Black Sheep Craft Shop next month, aiming to create a community space that connects with the neighborhood's other shops.
Nayima started knitting to pass the time when her then-husband left Iowa for a medical fellowship in 2014.
As an introvert with extra time on her hands, she turned to YouTube tutorials and fiber blogs and found joy in creating something with her hands.
Over time, she branched into sewing, embroidery and mending.
"It really gets you into that flow state, and it closes down your brain for anything else," Nayima says.
Zoom in: The 900-square-foot space will stock high-quality yarns, as well as fiber art kits, embroidery supplies and crafting tools.
She wants to host workshops and collaborate with other Highland Park shops, like a crafting book club hosted with The Little Book.
She's also planning a kid-friendly craft corner for younger makers, including her daughter, Lucy.
The intrigue: Nayima is opening next door to her sister, Jamie Nicolino, who owns The Collective.
The big picture: The name Black Sheep is personal — it's both a nod to wool and to feeling like an outsider.
"I just feel like a little bit of a weirdo all the time and I think a lot of people feel that way, so I identified with it in that regard." Nayima says.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Business Upturn
a day ago
- Business Upturn
Best Contractor Business Loans for Bad Credit: ROK Financial Responds to Growing Credit Access Challenges
New York, Aug. 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The information below is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or professional advice. Funding availability, terms, and approval times may vary by applicant and lender. Always confirm details directly with the official provider before applying for financing. If you apply through links in this article, the publisher may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Best Contractor Business Loans for Bad Credit: ROK Financial Responds to Growing Credit Access Challenges ROK Financial has moved into 2025 with an aggressive stance on expanding contractor business loan options for owners with bad credit. As interest in alternative financing grows, the firm positions itself at the center of this shift, helping small contractors stay competitive despite tightening bank approvals. Across the country, builders, roofers, electricians, and independent contractors are confronting a familiar problem: demand for projects continues to rise, but traditional banks remain restrictive when credit histories are less than perfect. That gap has created one of the strongest surges in search interest for 'best contractor business loans for bad credit' in years. Explore Contractor Loan Solutions from ROK Financial Why Interest in Best Contractor Business Loans for Bad Credit Is Surging in 2025 The surge in contractor lending demand reflects broader shifts in the economy. Inflation and higher borrowing costs have left many contractors unable to qualify for standard loans, even while customer demand for home improvement and infrastructure work grows. According to recent industry surveys, more than half of small businesses that applied for financing in 2024 were either denied or offered unfavorable terms. Contractors often work on thin margins, face seasonal cycles, and must cover upfront costs before receiving client payments. Payroll, materials, and equipment purchases cannot wait, which makes access to credit essential. Yet banks continue to rely on rigid FICO cutoffs that leave many qualified operators without options. This disconnect between project demand and credit availability has fueled record-high online searches for bad-credit business financing. YouTube creators discuss how independent builders struggle with cash flow. Search data from Google Trends highlights this shift. Phrases like 'contractor business loans bad credit' and 'working capital loans for contractors' have shown double-digit growth year over year. On YouTube, creators are explaining how alternative lenders have stepped in to support tradespeople, while discussions on small business forums reveal how credit access challenges have become a daily struggle for those in the building industry. This isn't a niche issue anymore — it's a mainstream conversation gaining momentum. Reddit forums are filled with small operators debating alternatives. TikTok videos trend on 'funding hacks' for contractors who need money fast but do not meet traditional underwriting standards. For many contractors, the ability to secure fast working capital can mean the difference between taking on new clients or turning down projects. Seasonal slowdowns, weather disruptions, and equipment costs all put pressure on cash flow. Without flexible financing, these businesses often face unnecessary setbacks. With more than half of contractors operating as small businesses or sole proprietors, the need for loan programs that look beyond credit scores has become urgent. ROK Financial's visibility in this conversation has grown as more contractors look beyond banks. The firm is often mentioned in user forums and industry publications for its willingness to structure financing designed for credit-challenged owners. In fact, a recent release highlighted how bad credit business loans surged nationwide in 2025 as ROK expanded access to alternative programs. The cultural and economic backdrop points to one clear trend: in 2025, small contractors are no longer waiting for banks to change their rules. They are searching for financing partners that recognize the realities of their businesses and provide flexible ways to secure working capital. Learn More About ROK Financial's Contractor Loan Programs ROK Financial as a Response to This Shift ROK Financial has built its reputation around filling the gaps that traditional banks leave open. While major lenders continue to rely on outdated credit scoring models, ROK positions itself as a direct response to the needs of contractors who require fast, flexible working capital solutions. The company designs loan structures specifically for contractors who face unpredictable cycles, delayed payments, and urgent material purchases. Its programs are positioned for small and mid-sized operators who often find themselves locked out of bank financing but still need the resources to secure bids, take on bigger projects, and keep crews paid on time. This strategy was highlighted in a recent update, where ROK Financial detailed its expanded contractor loan programs ahead of storm season to help roofing companies secure working capital. That release underscored how specific industry challenges, like seasonal roofing demand, align with ROK's flexible lending approach. For contractors, this approach means access to financing that acknowledges the realities of the industry rather than penalizing them for circumstances beyond their control. By focusing on speed, flexibility, and tailored structures, ROK has become a recognized alternative to rigid, slow-moving bank processes. Inside the Contractor Loan Platform Beyond the broad positioning, ROK Financial's programs feature structures that reflect what contractors request most often. Instead of rigid underwriting, the platform explores credit alternatives such as revenue-based qualification, repeat customer payment history, and job pipeline forecasting. These tools allow credit-challenged contractors to show their real business performance rather than be judged on a single score. Features explored by users include working capital advances, short-term loans for equipment, and financing designed to bridge gaps until receivables are collected. Contractors report that flexible repayment structures are especially important during seasonal downturns, where cash flow can shrink but payroll obligations continue. Another key dimension is the company's willingness to adapt programs to industries under pressure. In 2025, demand has surged in segments where traditional lenders are pulling back. A related release showed how no credit check financing is becoming a high-demand option as ROK Financial expands access nationwide. That flexibility sets the firm apart in an environment where small businesses are seeking practical solutions over rigid qualifications. Commonly requested tools include same-day approvals, access to multiple lending partners, and quick online application workflows. These features give contractors clarity on options, often within hours instead of weeks. By building this kind of speed and transparency into its platform, ROK has become part of the conversation among small operators seeking to stay competitive in a tough lending climate. Learn About ROK's No-Credit-Check and Flexible Loan Options What Online Users Are Saying About This Category The conversation around contractor financing has grown louder across digital platforms in 2025. On YouTube, creators explain how small business owners are adapting to rising borrowing costs. Podcasts focus on the struggle independent contractors face in securing predictable funding. Reddit and TikTok threads highlight strategies that operators share with one another to keep jobs moving despite poor credit histories. The tone of these discussions is exploratory rather than promotional. Many participants acknowledge the challenge of finding reliable lenders while pointing to a handful of providers that appear frequently in threads. ROK Financial's name surfaces often in this cultural dialogue, typically associated with speed and flexibility compared to larger banks. These discussions matter because they reflect the sentiment of the very audience searching for solutions. Contractors frustrated with denials report that alternative financing gave them the ability to purchase equipment or make payroll on time. Others emphasize that while they remain cautious, programs built for bad-credit borrowers are increasingly seen as necessary in today's economy. This blend of curiosity and demand continues to reinforce search momentum. By being part of the conversation, ROK Financial benefits from growing visibility and expanding trust signals within the contractor community. Who Might Gravitate Toward This Product in 2025 The profile of contractors exploring bad-credit business loans in 2025 is diverse. High-performing builders taking on larger contracts often require immediate working capital to secure materials before client payments arrive. Independent roofers, plumbers, and electricians lean on financing when seasonal swings disrupt cash flow. Newer contractors entering the market see alternative funding as a bridge until their credit history strengthens. Other groups showing interest include small operators managing multiple crews and subcontractors who must cover payroll before invoices are cleared. These borrowers look for speed and flexibility rather than long application processes that delay projects. There is also a growing set of entrepreneurs who entered construction after leaving corporate roles during the pandemic years. Many lack the credit profiles banks demand but have strong networks and client pipelines. For them, alternative financing is a tool to scale businesses faster and compete with established firms. ROK Financial has built its programs with these varied use cases in mind, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach. By aligning repayment terms with revenue flow, the company creates a pathway for contractors who would otherwise be excluded from mainstream financing. Explore How ROK Aligns Loan Structures With Contractor Needs Market Category Reflections – Why This Niche Is Expanding The market for contractor business loans designed for borrowers with bad credit is expanding because structural forces are pushing demand higher. Rising interest rates, inflation, and tighter bank regulations have made it harder for small operators to access working capital. At the same time, construction activity remains steady, driven by infrastructure spending, storm recovery projects, and housing demand. This imbalance has created an opening for alternative lenders who are willing to evaluate businesses differently. Instead of focusing on outdated credit models, these lenders look at project pipelines, revenue streams, and seasonal patterns. Contractors recognize that this approach reflects the realities of the industry more accurately. In recent coverage, ROK Financial emphasized how its programs are meeting demand from small businesses excluded from traditional financing. This reflects broader keyword growth in terms like 'bad credit business loans,' 'alternative contractor financing,' and 'working capital for subcontractors.' The expansion of this niche signals that contractors are no longer waiting for banks to catch up. Instead, they are adopting solutions that keep projects moving, protect crews from delays, and enable competitive bidding on larger contracts. Public Debate – Supporters, Skeptics, and the Signals Behind the Buzz Public conversation about contractor loans for bad credit has divided opinion. Supporters argue these programs reflect an overdue correction in lending, allowing small operators to demonstrate real performance instead of being dismissed by outdated credit models. They highlight how contractors often juggle delayed payments, unexpected project costs, and seasonal downturns, making alternative funding more aligned with day-to-day realities. Skeptics, on the other hand, question whether relying on nontraditional financing creates longer-term risks. Concerns about repayment terms, higher interest rates, and dependency on fast capital surface often in forums and podcasts. Some critics caution contractors to balance immediate access with careful financial planning. Neutral observers note that the sharp rise in search volume for related keywords shows that interest is genuine and growing. Whether supportive or skeptical, online discussion has helped put contractor loans for bad credit into the spotlight, signaling an important cultural shift in how business financing is viewed. By presenting itself as a transparent, education-first provider, ROK Financial positions its platform as a response to both sides of the debate, offering speed and clarity without overpromising. See How ROK Balances Transparency With Contractor Loan Access About ROK Financial ROK Financial operates with a mission to expand credit access for small businesses that face obstacles in traditional lending channels. The company emphasizes an education-first approach, helping contractors and entrepreneurs understand financing options before making commitments. Its platform prioritizes speed, clarity, and alignment with real-world business cycles rather than rigid credit scoring. Since its founding, ROK Financial has positioned itself as a partner to industries often underserved by banks. Contractors, franchise owners, and independent operators turn to the company for flexible working capital programs designed to support growth and stability. By focusing on practical solutions instead of one-size-fits-all lending, ROK has built a reputation for responsiveness and trust within the business community. This positioning reflects broader shifts in the financing landscape, where alternative providers are now viewed as essential players. Contact Final Disclaimer This press release is for informational purposes only. The content herein does not constitute financial, legal, or medical advice. Best Contractor Business Loans for Bad Credit is not intended to diagnose, treat, predict, or guarantee any result or outcome. Individual experiences may vary, and outcomes are not assured. Some links in this release may be promotional in nature and may lead to third-party websites. The publisher or author may receive compensation through affiliate commissions if a purchase is made through these links. This compensation does not affect the price you pay and helps support continued research and content publication. All statements made about product features, platform strategies, or training content reflect publicly available information, user discussions, or historical trends, and are not endorsed or validated by regulatory bodies. Please perform your own research before making financial, technological, or purchasing decisions. Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Business Insider
2 days ago
- Business Insider
AI talent war poses a gnarly question: Are you a monkey or a missionary?
Since my dad died, I've grown close to my father-in-law Bill. He has a mix of joy and realism I admire, and his advice tends to stick. One of his favorites: "We're all prostitutes when it comes to work." He's from an older generation, so I'll swap in "sex workers" as the appropriate phrase here. What he means is that we work mainly for money. That's been on my mind as the AI talent war heats up. Mark Zuckerberg has been offering $100 million-plus packages to lure AI researchers and engineers from frontier labs and Big Tech rivals. Some have refused, citing loyalty to their company's mission. "They are trying to buy something that cannot be bought. And that is alignment with the mission," Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei said recently, noting his top talent has stayed despite Meta's offers. Staff at Thinking Machines Lab have also turned Zuck down, either over leadership concerns or mission loyalty, according to Wired. My father-in-law would say a phrase that includes the letters B and S. According to the gospel of Bill, this is all about getting paid, as usual. A Business Insider scoop backs this up: This week, Charles Rollet reported Zuck's recruiting drive has created tension among existing Meta AI experts, who resent newcomers getting higher pay in its new Superintelligence team. That's made some easier to poach. xAI has nabbed several, and Microsoft has a Meta talent wish list. On August 6, Laurens van der Maaten, a top Meta scientist, announced he was joining Anthropic. Reacting on X, former Meta engineering director Erik Meijer wrote: "Every action has a reaction; the unintended side effects of creating a SI team," referring to the Superintelligence group. When asked for comment, he shared a YouTube clip of an experiment in which two monkeys performing the same task were given different rewards. The one that got a less tasty treat hurled it back and angrily shook its cage. If we're all metaphorical monkeys or sex workers, what about the "mission-driven" folks staying put? One possible explanation: equity. Many engineers and researchers get stock in their startups, and these awards typically vest over several years. If you're at a hot AI lab, your unvested equity has probably soared in value lately, or there's a chance it could. For instance, Anthropic could be worth $170 billion soon, up from about $4 billion two years ago. If you got equity back then and you're waiting for it to vest, there's no way you're leaving right now. No surprise: most folks are staying at Anthropic. Until that equity vests, anyway. I want to hear back from AI experts who are getting big offers. Are you mission-driven and staying put, or will you take the $$$ like most of us monkeys? Let me know: abarr@
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
Silver Birch Growth Launches Research Collective for Executives to Navigate AI and Digital Growth Strategies Without the Sales Pitch
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 15, 2025) - Silver Birch Growth Inc. (SBG) has launched The Collective, a 100-person network of senior operators who have scaled businesses and made high-stakes calls. The group delivers unfiltered opinions on innovative tech to C-suite leaders at brands, while fostering word-of-mouth executive introductions. Members benefit from advisory gigs and royalties on warm intros, access to a curated community that puts its members ahead of emerging tech trends. In a market craving discreet access to knowledge without salespeople, the Collective shares opinions and saves on buying direct, thanks to rebates for valued input. "This ends up being one of the most profitable ways for founders to grow, while gaining high-value customers who give valued feedback," Founder Randy Gilling said. Consulting contracts often add undue cash outlay-appeasing legacy business models like professional services. SBG has assembled senior operators who have actually run companies and faced tough calls. These people get on calls with brands at no cost, and are available fractionally in addition to being contributors for product research. SBG earns through wholesale deals with Founders building great tech, displacing expensive sales and marketing overhead required to scale sales. Brands and C-suites join a free but need to qualify. They get priority access to resources, visibility into how solutions are being adopted at peer companies in their markets, and they get to spot unicorns before everyone else knows about them. SBG has trusted technical partners for fast onboarding and integrations where needed so strategy-confident leaders can avoid the anxiety of execution risk with solutions they adopt. Beyond research, members often lead hands-on growth projects, support technology rollouts, and shape go-to-market strategies for brands across the ecosystem-ensuring that insights from the Collective directly drive execution and measurable results Media Spotlights: Founders featured on SBG's Rapid Traction podcast, (listen at Proprietary Scoring Edge: Powered by SBG's scorecard system, evaluating critical factors like product market fit, founder mental toughness, AI readiness, sales velocity, revenue scalability, and comes with SBG network demand validation estimating possible imminent market interest for products. It quantifies unicorn potential, validates products & services, and for winners comes with a scoring by SBG coupled with a qualified pipeline of actual buyer interest. "The SBG Collective cuts through the noise in a market flooded with sales pitches. Their vetted network gives us early access to game-changing tech, direct founder dialogue to shape solutions around real needs, and the opportunity to help other brands capture value from innovations that actually work," Rick Egan, Riviera Marketing Fractional CMO SBG may hold business ties with covered entities, including wholesale agreements and future investments via an internal private capital initiative. Disclosures appear in all research notes for full transparency. About SBG Silver Birch Growth Inc. (SBG) delivers research fused with sales pipelines, guiding brands and investors through AI and digital innovations to capture scalable growth. SBG is a growth ecosystem connecting companies to tomorrow's unicorns before they go mainstream. Media Contact: SBG Communications sales@ Research Disclaimer: At SBG, we conduct independent research on startups, emphasizing product market fit, sales scalability, founder/team quality, and growth potential to support informed decisions and network opportunities. This scorecard relies on public data, voluntary contributions, and anonymized feedback. Participation is optional; without input, we limit analysis to publicly available information. All scores and insights are subjective opinions for educational purposes only-not financial advice, endorsements, or guarantees. We prioritize privacy: Personal data is never shared without explicit consent. Reviewed companies can request a free copy, corrections, or request an opt-out at sales@ Disputes will be reviewed promptly. By participating, you agree to anonymized aggregation of your responses. For more details and for questions, visit SBG aligns with FTC guidelines on fair reviews and focuses on verifiable facts and opinions to minimize risks. To view the source version of this press release, please visit Sign in to access your portfolio
