SME Funding Scrutiny: Bulgaria’s deputy PM ordered an audit of an SME support procedure after over 1,100 firms passed review but still waited on funding, raising concerns about criteria and legality before money is released. Local Revitalization: Jamestown Renaissance Corporation hired a downtown revitalization director to push business development, placemaking, and investment attraction, with a focus on entrepreneurs and small businesses. Retail + Housing Push: Brighton & Hove unveiled plans for a major seafront overhaul, including 1,000 new homes and 53,819 sq ft of waterfront shops, plus upgrades across several key areas. Cross-Border Payments: XTransfer and Societe Generale signed an MoU to streamline cross-border trade payments, aiming for faster, clearer, more automatable flows for businesses. SME Energy Transition: Ireland’s SMEs are leaning into solar and “Solar-as-a-Service,” with cost and ROI still the main blockers. Payments for Growth in Nigeria: Moniepoint CEO urged the CBN to build credit products on top of Nigeria’s payments infrastructure to unlock financing for underserved small businesses. Business Safety + Health: A UK study links home-based peritoneal dialysis to better outcomes and nearly £200M in NHS savings, spotlighting patient-centered care access. Tourism That Feeds Local Shops: Newark is planning World Cup and food-focused events, including Restaurant Week, to drive foot traffic to local restaurants and small businesses. Green Finance Angle: Jordan’s banks association urged Qatari investors toward green economy projects like renewable energy and low-emission infrastructure.