District Dialogues | Small Businesses, Big Insights: What Local Businesses Can Tell Us About the Economy

Hosted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

November 12, 2025
2:30 PM-5:00 PM

Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

701 E Byrd Street
Richmond, VA 23219

Or Zoom

Small businesses are on the front lines of the economy every day, and their experiences and challenges can provide crucial insights into the bigger economic picture.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond recognizes the vital role small businesses play in our economy. We've found that smaller and younger businesses often feel economic shifts first and most intensely. That's why we value their input as it helps us better understand and forecast economic trends.

Join us for an eye-opening District Dialogues event where we'll:

  • Explore how small business data often reflects larger economic patterns
  • The latest research and economic data, translated into accessible, practical terms 
  • Key surveys and indicators, such as new business formation rates, and what they tell us about economic performance
  • Real-world experiences from the small business community and how they align with current economic signals

Together, we'll unpack the big impact of small businesses and gain a deeper understanding of the forces driving our economy. Don't miss this opportunity to see the big picture through a small business lens.

Interested in learning more? All community members are invited to join us Wednesday, November 12 at 2:30 PM in person at the Richmond Fed or virtually via Zoom. There is no cost to attend, but all attendees are asked to register in advance. In-person attendees are invited to join us before the event for networking and refreshments.

Speakers

Yongqiang Chu Headshot

Renee Haltom

Regional Executive and Vice President of Research Communications,
Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

Carrie Cook Headshot

Peter Hansen

Director, Research Policy Analysis,
National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Research Center

Matthew Marting Headshot

Jason Kosakow

Survey Director,
Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

Grey Gordon Headshot

Chen Yeh

Senior Economist,
Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

Agenda

  • Registration and Opening Reception
    2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
    In Person
  • Welcome and Economic Update
    3:00 PM - 3:20 PM
    In Person and Virtual Audiences
  • Panel Discussion
    3:20 PM - 3:50 PM
    In Person and Virtual Audiences
  • Audience Q&A and Closing Remarks
    3:50 PM - 4:30 PM
    In Person and Virtual Audiences
  • Networking
    4:30 PM - 5:00 PM
    In Person

Secure Your Spot today!

Registration Deadlines:

In Person: November 5, 2025

Virtual: November 11, 2025

Discover more conversations on the most pressing economic issues - explore the complete District Dialogues series.

#DistrictDialogues