Space Startup Policy Boost: PM Narendra Modi met CEOs of 20 Indian space startups on National Space Day, promising consistent regulation and an “aura” to attract global talent, while urging new applications for agriculture, climate and public good. AI for Work (SMB Angle): Harvey launched Tenet, its first proprietary legal model, aiming to cut reliance on third-party AI calls—an efficiency move that could matter for smaller legal teams. Seed Funding for Enterprise AI: Aramco Ventures co-led Twin1 AI’s $20M seed round for “digital twins” of employees that can answer questions and run approved tasks across tools like Teams and Slack. Startup Acceleration in Africa: FasterCapital selected SibanyeGas for EquityPilot to refine product and operations for a mobile gas-delivery app focused on clearer pricing and more reliable last-mile service. Franchise Regulation Watch (UK): UK ministers commissioned reviews into how franchising is policed after Vodafone-related allegations, aiming to protect franchisees without adding burdens. SME Support Programs: Oman’s NBO ran its first SME Growth Program workshop in Muscat with practical training on planning, management and sustainable expansion. Local Business Costs & Access: Missouri rolled out employer-state child care cost-sharing, helping working families keep jobs. Small Business Finance Demand: Indian Bank expects its gold loan portfolio to top Rs 1.5 lakh crore this year, citing growth tied to MSMEs and agriculture. Tourism + Halal Innovation Ecosystem: Malaysia’s deputy PM urged building a global hub for the Muslim travel economy by linking tourism with halal innovation, trade, tech and local enterprises.