A New York City street vendor scrabbles and strives to make a living

Nov 16, 2023
The Street Vendor Project estimates at least 20,000 vendors are operating in New York City, but there are permits for only about 6,000.
Vicente Veintimilla sets up his stall at the same place on the sidewalk every day near bus, subway and commuter train stops and Fordham University in the Bronx.
Amalia Silverheart/Marketplace

For small-business owners, “it’s just never-ending”

Mar 17, 2021
An independent hairstylist reflects on her newfound respect for small-business ownership after a year on her own.
Hairstylist Ashley Nelson’s private suite in downtown Boise, Idaho. She's looking to grow and bring people with her.
Courtesy of Ashley Nelson

Small-business optimism hits 8-month low

Feb 9, 2021
Though some numbers show signs of hope, the uncertainty many businesses feel can't entirely be captured in a survey.
A restaurant serving patrons outdoors on a winter night. Business owners aren't sure what a new normal will look like.
Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

A small gelato business confronts big questions

Apr 22, 2020
The owner of two Los Angeles stores shares her fears and hopes about surviving the coronavirus pandemic.
Courtesy of Uli Nasibova

Mississippi business owner celebrates rate cut

Aug 1, 2019
Kai Ryssdal checked in with Austin Golding, a small business owner in Mississippi.
Floodwaters in Vicksburg, Mississippi back in 2011.
Mario Tama/Getty Images

When it comes to traditional business loans, non-white and women entrepreneurs are being left behind

May 25, 2018
Despite Texas’ reputation as a business-friendly state, a survey last year from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas found access to capital is the number one concern for women and non-white small business owners in the state.   There’s a good reason for that. According to the U.S. Minority Business Development Agency, people of color are three […]