The author grew up in Athens, Georgia, where their parents worked for a family-owned fish bait business. The company created a sense of community and provided financial stability for the author’s family. Small businesses are important for the economy, with over 33 million small businesses creating two-thirds of new jobs and accounting for 44% of economic activity in the US. However, being a small business owner can be challenging, with the need to find new customers, sustain operations, and keep up with technology. The Grow with Google Digital Coaches program aims to support small businesses by connecting them with local marketing experts and entrepreneurs who provide live training and hands-on coaching to help them grow. The program has announced the addition of ten new Digital Coaches trained in partnership with Main Street America, who will work with businesses in their home states, with a specific focus on small towns and rural communities. Digital Coaches will provide free workshops on topics such as connecting with customers, selling online, and improving productivity.