startups
US Business Applications Jumped 8.1% in July, but New-Firm Formation Barely Moved
US business applications rose 8.1% in July 2026 to 578,926, while projected formations within four quarters increased only 0.7%.
Lauren Hayes
Startups & Venture Capital Correspondent
- Startups
- Venture Capital
- Private Technology
- Founders
- Emerging Business Models
Lauren Hayes is a Startups and Venture Capital Correspondent at American Commerce Review, reporting on American startups, venture capital, private technology companies, founders, and emerging business models.
Her coverage follows companies from early-stage financing through expansion and commercialization, with particular attention to funding rounds, investor activity, startup economics, and the challenges involved in turning rapid growth into durable businesses. Hayes also covers the changing relationship between venture-backed companies, private equity, and established corporate America.