District Dialogues | Small Businesses, Big Insights: What Local Businesses Can Tell Us About the Economy
Hosted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond
Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond
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

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

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

Jason Kosakow
Survey Director,
Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

Chen Yeh
Senior Economist,
Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond
Agenda
- Registration and Opening Reception2:30 PM - 3:00 PMIn Person
- Welcome and Economic Update3:00 PM - 3:20 PMIn Person and Virtual Audiences
- Panel Discussion3:20 PM - 3:50 PMIn Person and Virtual Audiences
- Audience Q&A and Closing Remarks3:50 PM - 4:30 PMIn Person and Virtual Audiences
- Networking4:30 PM - 5:00 PMIn 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.
