Small-Business Finance: The Greater Milwaukee Foundation opened applications for its 2026 ThriveOn Small Business Loans, targeting 10 Milwaukee-area commercial operators with up to $50,000 at a 3% fixed rate over seven years, plus required coaching and an action plan (deadline July 20). Local Development: West Bend approved a developer’s agreement for a 400-unit multifamily subdivision, including public road improvements tied to Paradise Drive and River Road. Energy Storage & Data Centers: ESS Tech launched its ESS Bridge modular sodium-ion battery system aimed at utilities and AI-driven data centers, positioning non-lithium storage as a safer alternative. Cyber & Fraud Risk: Northeast Wisconsin businesses are seeing more convincing fraud attempts—spoofed calls, fake invoices, and AI-enabled phishing—pushing firms to focus on people and process, not just tech. Housing & TIF: Two Rivers extended TID No. 9 for one year to support future housing development, estimating about $160,000 in additional tax increment. Legal Fight Over AI Infrastructure: Residents near Microsoft’s $7.3B AI data center sued over alleged constant, excessive noise from generators and HVAC systems. Prediction Markets: Kalshi’s bid to block New York enforcement of sports-event contracts was denied, deepening a court split that could reach the Supreme Court. Community Business Spotlight: Brookfield’s Graze Craze charcuterie shop opened in the Galleria West, offering event boards and boxes.