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Minton CPA and Associates
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  • Where tax strategy meets real-world decisions.

    An independent publication delivering CPA-led insights

    on tax strategy, business growth, and wealth planning.

    757-384-9020

    Where tax strategy meets real-world decisions.


    An independent publication delivering CPA-led insight on tax strategy, business growth, 

    and wealth planning.

    Where tax strategy meets real-world decisions.
    An independent publication delivering CPA-led insight on tax strategy, business growth, and wealth planning.
    Where tax strategy meets real-world decisions
  • Where tax strategy meets real-world decisions.

    An independent publication delivering CPA-led insight on tax strategy, business growth, and wealth planning.


    • Tax Strategy & Planning
    • Business Growth & Advisory
    • Wealth Preservation & Legacy Planning
    • Business Transition & Exit Planning
    • Local Business Spotlights & Expert Interviews
    • Press Release
February 19.2026
3 Minutes Read

Could Britain’s Spinout Gender Gap Last Until 2060? What This Means for Local Entrepreneurs

Close-up of individuals holding poster at indoor event, spinout gender gap.

The Gender Gap in UK University Spinouts: A Looming Challenge

The landscape for innovation and entrepreneurship is unfolding spectacularly, yet a significant disparity persists within it: the gender gap in university spinouts. Recent studies indicate that this gap could linger until as late as 2060. This issue is particularly crucial for small business owners in the Hampton Roads area, where understanding and addressing gender equity can drive greater innovation and economic resilience.

Why Gender Diversity Matters for Spinouts

Gender diversity within startups and spinouts isn't just a matter of equity; it fundamentally impacts business performance. Companies that prioritize gender diversity are often more innovative and better able to solve complex problems. A report on UK university spinouts highlighted that while the number of female-founded spinouts has been increasing, women remain significantly underrepresented. Particularly in sectors like biotechnology and engineering, which are predominant in university spinouts, this lack of representation could hinder unique perspectives and innovations that women can bring.

A Broader Context: Understanding the C-Suite Gender Gap

The challenges faced by female entrepreneurs reflect broader trends in areas like corporate leadership. A study by Vestd found that women occupy only 37.3% of executive roles in the UK’s top companies - a stark reminder of the barriers at higher levels of leadership. Additionally, female executives tend to have shorter tenures compared to their male counterparts. This cycle of underrepresentation can create a reinforcing barrier that perpetuates gender disparities across various industries, including those created from university spinouts.

Making a Case for Strategic Tax Planning

In light of these disparities, the importance of proactive tax planning for female entrepreneurs and small business owners can't be overstated. Effective tax strategy and planning can empower small business owners, providing them the resources to invest in talent and innovation. Proactive tax planning enables business leaders to reinvest more in diverse hiring practices and initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity.

Local Solutions for Global Issues: The Hampton Roads Approach

The Hampton Roads area can respond uniquely to these challenges. Local incubators and accelerators can develop tailored programs that focus on empowering women entrepreneurs. Additionally, by providing resources for strategic tax planning and offering workshops on funding solutions, they can help bridge the gender gap within local startups.

Encouraging Inclusivity in Local Ventures

As small business owners, making a conscious effort to diversify team composition and ensuring equity in investment practices can lead to more robust and sustainable ventures. Empowering women not only fulfills a moral obligation but enhances the overall business landscape, making it richer and more competitive. Companies that promote diverse leadership often outperform their counterparts; this paradigm shift can start right here in Hampton Roads.

Call to Action for Local Entrepreneurs

Engaging in proactive tax planning and supporting diversity initiatives can significantly enhance business growth and innovation. Consider consulting with a CPA specializing in tax strategy and planning to explore customized tax planning solutions that align with your growth objectives while fostering inclusivity in your business model. Invest in your business and your community—because the future of entrepreneurship should be inclusive and equitable for all.

Business Growth & Advisory

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02.25.2026

Is Your New Hire Better Than ChatGPT? Five Tests to Find Out

Update Assessing the Unique Value of Human Employees in the AI Era As artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, like ChatGPT, continue to evolve, small business owners face a new challenge: assessing whether their new employees can truly outperform these AI systems. The rapid integration of AI in workplaces has raised fundamental questions about the very nature of creativity and problem-solving—areas once thought to be exclusively human domains. Understanding the Talent Gap The emergence of AI has sparked a dialogue about workforce dynamics and competencies. As noted by experts, the skills required to successfully navigate the modern labor landscape are quickly changing—leadership teams must discern the unique capabilities of human workers compared to AI. According to Kai-Fu Lee, 'AI will not replace jobs, but it will change the nature of work.' This statement captures the pivotal moment small business owners find themselves in as they look to harmonize human and AI talents. Five Practical Tests to Evaluate Your New Hire As a small business owner, understanding how to measure potential hires may influence your decision to hire in an AI-friendly environment. Here are five tests focusing on creativity, adaptability, emotional intelligence, collaboration, and problem-solving that can be utilized to assess your new employees: Creative Thinking Assessments: Explore divergent thinking tasks, like the Alternative Uses Task, where both human and AI generate novel uses for everyday objects. Recent studies indicate that while AI may produce a high quantity of ideas, the depth and originality of human suggestions often surpass AI capabilities. Collaboration Simulations: Set up team exercises that require cooperative problem-solving. AI lacks emotional comprehension and social nuances, making it crucial for hire evaluations. Adaptability Tests: Challenge candidates with hypothetical scenarios and assess their responses. AI systems can struggle with unforeseeable circumstances that humans naturally navigate. Emotional Intelligence Evaluations: AI may lack empathy and nuanced communication skills pivotal in team dynamics. Assessing a candidate's understanding of interpersonal relations can provide insights unreachable by AI. Real-World Problem Solving: Present applicants with genuine business challenges. The human capacity for critical thinking and contextual understanding often surpasses what AI can offer. The Unique Strengths of Human Employees While AI may triumph in specific tasks, the very essence of human creativity remains irreplaceable. Recent research demonstrates that while AI can generate inventive ideas, the best human concepts remain unmatched in complexity and emotional resonance. As small business owners in the Hampton Roads area assess new hires, recognizing the invaluable qualities human workers bring—intuition, flexibility, and empathy—is critical. Balancing AI and Human Skillsets To fully harness the strengths of both AI and human employees, business owners must adopt a strategy leveraging their individual capabilities. Incorporating tools, like the SFIA Framework, can help create a balanced workforce environment. Through this framework, leaders can evaluate and define tasks to optimize team compositions precisely. Engaging Human Talent in the Future Workforce As technological advancements continue to reshape working landscapes, creating a workplace that values both human ingenuity and AI efficiency is essential. Fostering a culture of continuous learning for employees ensures they can adapt while maximizing their unique insights—qualities that AI currently cannot replicate. Conclusion: Embracing a Hybrid Future The ongoing integration of AI systems marks a significant transition in the workforce landscape, prodding employers to reassess how best to gauge talent. While embracing new technologies, it’s paramount to recognize the irreplaceable advantages human workers bring—and implement measures to assess and value these skills accordingly. With evolving workplaces comes the need for continuous strategy adaptation, and as a small business owner in Hampton Roads, fostering a unique blend of human and AI strengths will be crucial to future success. To discover the strategic tax planning solutions that can support your small business in this new era, contact a local CPA for customized advice tailored specifically for your business needs.

02.25.2026

How Transparency Trends Impact Small Business Customer Trust

Update Understanding Trust: The Importance of Transparency In today’s fast-paced business environment, transparency is more than just a buzzword; it’s a critical factor that drives customer loyalty and trust. Customers are increasingly skeptical of companies, especially in industries with a track record of less-than-honest practices. Small business owners in the Hampton Roads area need to recognize the importance of transparency, not just to win customers but to build long-lasting relationships based on trust. Transparency Trends in Industries Customers Distrust Recent insights are revealing three key trends that illustrate how transparency affects customer perceptions in sectors typically viewed with suspicion. Firstly, consumers now demand greater accountability, particularly in finance and healthcare, where data breaches and scandals have marked the industries. Customers want assurance not only that their personal data is secure but also that companies are acting ethically and openly about how they operate. Secondly, ongoing dialogues about sustainability and ethical sourcing are shaping consumer habits. Companies that openly share their supply chain practices are seeing positive impacts on customer trust and loyalty. For small business owners, adopting open communication about business practices, from product sourcing to labor conditions, can help mitigate distrust and foster stronger customer connections. Lastly, real-time updates and engaging customers in dialogue contribute significantly to transparency. Businesses that utilize online platforms to keep customers informed about operations and developments, especially during uncertain times, are more likely to gain their trust. A proactive approach to communication can differentiate a small business in a competitive market. The Emotional Connection: Why Transparency Matters Beyond business practices, emotional connections are paramount. Customers want to feel that the companies they support align with their values. For small business owners, this provides an opportunity to build emotional loyalty. Sharing success stories and challenges while being open about service offerings can resonate with customers, making them more likely to return and recommend your services to others. Building a Trustworthy Brand: Practical Steps So how can your small business in Hampton Roads adopt these transparency trends? Start by thoroughly reviewing your business practices and identifying areas where increased transparency could enhance customer relations. Share your findings openly with your audience, whether through social media, newsletters, or community events. Additionally, consider implementing customer feedback mechanisms. Ask for opinions on your products or services and genuinely incorporate that feedback into your business operations. This not only demonstrates the value you place on customer insights but also fosters a collaborative environment. Strategic Planning and Customer Trust Effective transparency often ties back to robust strategic planning and tax strategy for small businesses. When financial practices are conducted openly, such as in year-round tax planning, it fosters an environment of trust with your stakeholders. Consider consulting a CPA who specializes in strategic tax planning solutions to ensure that your financial practices align with transparency efforts. Embrace Transparency for Long-Term Success In sum, transparency can be a game-changer for small businesses in the Hampton Roads area. By understanding and embracing trends that customers expect, businesses can not only improve trust but also enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. In an ever-evolving marketplace, being transparent is not just about avoiding suspicion; it’s about creating genuine connections and opportunities for growth. As you consider the future of your business, think of transparency as a vital component of your strategic planning and tax strategy discussions.

02.22.2026

High-End Side Hustles Are Surging: A Guide for Hampton Roads Entrepreneurs

Update High-End Side Hustles: A New Avenue for Financial Relief In today's rapidly changing economic landscape, many are finding traditional 9-to-5 jobs insufficient to meet their financial needs. As inflation rises and living costs skyrocket, workers from all sectors are becoming increasingly interested in high-end side hustles. In the greater Hampton Roads area, small business owners are particularly well-positioned to benefit from this trend, leveraging their skills and interests into lucrative secondary income streams. Identifying Your Skills: The First Step Toward Success Many individuals overlook their own strengths when considering potential side hustles. As Chris Guillebeau, author of Side Hustle, wisely suggests, a thorough inventory of personal skills can illuminate paths to financial growth. Small business owners in cities like Norfolk or Virginia Beach may already possess expertise in areas such as marketing, financial planning, or technology, making them prime candidates for more specialized side hustles. Embracing Experimentation: Safe Trials for High Returns Starting a side business doesn't have to be a large financial gamble. Entrepreneurs can experiment with low-cost initiatives. For instance, a business owner might start by offering consulting in their area of expertise or selling handmade products locally. Testing new ideas on social media platforms can yield insightful feedback with minimal investment. Learning From Success: Analyze What Works Understanding successful models in the side hustle economy is crucial. For instance, many Virginia Beach locals can find success by studying how others have built their brands online. Gaining insights into their marketing strategies or product offerings can help new entrepreneurs tailor their own messages for better engagement. Effective Tools for Efficiency Operating an efficient side hustle requires the right tools. Utilizing digital platforms and software can streamline processes and boost productivity. For example, small business owners can use project management software and social media marketing tools to save time and create a professional online presence. The Safety Net of Foundational Income Before fully committing to a side hustle, it is wise to establish solid revenue from that endeavor while still employed. This strategic approach allows for the gradual transition from traditional employment to full-time entrepreneurship without financial strain. Jason VanderGriendt exemplifies this by methodically building his business while working part-time, ensuring he had a reliable income before making the leap. The Landscape of Side Hustles in 2026 The side hustle economy has evolved dramatically, particularly since the onset of the pandemic, leading to what is often referred to as the 'professional hustle economy.' Individuals are no longer limited to simple gigs; they are exploring opportunities that leverage their professional skills. In Hampton Roads, whether it's freelance writing, digital marketing, or tutoring, opportunities abound. Tax Strategies for Maximizing Side Hustle Income With increased income comes the need for sound tax planning. Small business owners engaging in side hustles must consider how to manage their tax obligations efficiently. Proactive tax planning services can help identify strategies that minimize liabilities and enhance financial stability moving forward. From customized tax planning solutions to strategic advice specific to side hustles, partnering with a CPA specializing in small businesses can yield significant benefits. Conclusion: Seize Your Opportunity As small business owners in the Hampton Roads area look to navigate challenging economic conditions, high-end side hustles present a promising opportunity to supplement incomes and foster growth. By assessing personal skills, experimenting with low-cost startup options, and implementing effective tax strategies, entrepreneurs can build successful side ventures that secure financial resiliency. It's time to take action and consider which side hustle could be your next step toward success.

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