Some small businesses can do more to ensure the security of online shoppers' personal information when visiting a company website, says a new survey. But those small businesses that maintain a strong privacy policy may find they have an edge over competitors.   more »

It's never been tougher for small, independently-owned companies to do business. Between super malls, discount warehouses and boutique franchise operations, the competition has become fierce. Many small business owners have become lost in the shuffle. In some areas, entire downtown districts have gone under. The silver lining: for some small businesses, however, life has never been better. That's because they've learned how to do more than just survive in the shadow of the giants ...they've learned how to thrive.   more »