The U.S. economy depends on the strength of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the financial well-being of individuals. These businesses generate jobs, foster innovation, and drive local economies, while financially stable individuals contribute to consumer spending and investment. However, the financial landscape for both groups has become increasingly precarious. Small businesses face rising operational costs, limited access to capital, and a complex regulatory environment that can hinder growth. At the same time, a significant portion of American households struggles with debt, insufficient savings, and a lack of financial literacy, leaving them vulnerable to economic downturns. Without intervention, these challenges could weaken the nation’s economic foundation, leading to business closures, job losses, and financial insecurity for millions of people.
Cláudia Roque da Silva has spent her career guiding individuals and businesses through financial complexities. As a former banking executive with over 26 years at Banco Caixa Econômica Federal, she has helped countless clients navigate economic hardships, restructure financial plans, and develop strategies for long-term stability. Drawing on this experience, she will establish Prosper Consulting LLC, a consulting firm that will provide targeted solutions for SMEs and individuals seeking financial resilience.
“Businesses and individuals don’t fail because they lack potential. They struggle because they don’t have access to the right knowledge and financial strategies,” Silva says. “With proper planning and risk management, many financial setbacks can be avoided before they become crises.”
One of the most pressing issues for small businesses is financial mismanagement, which remains a leading cause of business failure. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 65% of small businesses do not survive beyond their tenth year, with cash flow problems being one of the most cited reasons. Many businesses operate without proper budgeting, financial forecasting, or risk assessment strategies, leaving them vulnerable to even minor economic fluctuations. Prosper Consulting LLC will work with SMEs to develop comprehensive financial plans that help them anticipate challenges, allocate resources effectively, and maintain operational stability.
In addition to financial planning, regulatory compliance is another significant burden for small businesses. Navigating federal, state, and industry-specific regulations can be overwhelming, particularly for business owners who lack experience in compliance management. Failing to meet these standards can result in costly penalties, legal disputes, and reputational damage. Prosper Consulting LLC will provide businesses with tailored guidance on compliance requirements, ensuring that they operate within legal and regulatory frameworks while minimizing risk exposure.
Beyond businesses, individual financial stability remains a growing concern. Research from the Federal Reserve indicates that nearly 40% of Americans would struggle to cover an unexpected $400 expense, highlighting widespread financial vulnerability. Additionally, about a quarter of working adults have no retirement savings, increasing the risk of long-term economic hardship. Prosper Consulting LLC will address these challenges through financial education initiatives that teach individuals how to build savings, manage debt, and plan for major life expenses. These efforts will help families achieve financial security and break cycles of economic instability.
The benefits of financial education extend far beyond personal stability. When individuals make informed financial decisions, they are less likely to accumulate unmanageable debt, rely on public assistance, or face foreclosure and bankruptcy. A financially secure population also strengthens the economy by increasing consumer confidence and spending. Prosper Consulting LLC’s educational programs will focus on practical, actionable financial strategies that empower individuals to take control of their financial futures.
Technology will also play a critical role in the company’s approach. Many businesses and individuals still rely on outdated financial practices that prevent them from maximizing efficiency and profitability. By integrating financial management software, data analysis tools, and digital resources, Prosper Consulting LLC will help clients adopt modern solutions that improve financial decision-making and long-term planning.
At a national level, the company’s work will contribute to a stronger economic ecosystem. By helping SMEs remain operational and financially healthy, Prosper Consulting LLC will support job retention and economic stability. Meanwhile, equipping individuals with the knowledge to manage their finances effectively will reduce financial distress and improve overall economic participation. The ripple effect of these efforts could lead to stronger communities, reduced economic disparities, and a more resilient national economy.
As Prosper Consulting LLC prepares to launch, its mission is clear: to provide businesses and individuals with the financial strategies they need to succeed. Silva’s extensive background in banking and financial consulting positions her as a valuable resource in this effort. By addressing some of the most pressing financial challenges facing American businesses and households, the company will play a crucial role in fostering long-term economic security and growth.
“Financial stability isn’t just about making money—it’s about understanding how to manage it effectively,” Silva explains. “Businesses and individuals alike need strong financial foundations to withstand unexpected challenges, and my goal is to provide them with the tools to achieve long-term success.”
Prosper Consulting LLC will focus on two key areas: supporting small businesses in their strategic growth and providing financial education for individuals and families. For SMEs, the company will offer tailored guidance in strategic business planning, risk management, compliance, and financial analysis. These elements are crucial for long-term business survival, as many small business failures stem from inadequate financial oversight and poor market positioning. Many entrepreneurs launch their businesses with great ideas but lack the financial literacy and operational structure to maintain long-term stability. Through comprehensive consulting services, Prosper Consulting LLC will help these businesses identify risks, improve financial forecasting, and implement strategies to mitigate potential failures.
For individuals and families, financial education will play a crucial role in building economic security. Many Americans live paycheck to paycheck, with little to no savings or investment plans in place. Unexpected financial emergencies can push families into cycles of debt that are difficult to escape. By providing personalized financial consulting and educational workshops, Prosper Consulting LLC will equip individuals with the knowledge needed to make informed financial decisions. From budgeting and investment strategies to debt management and long-term financial planning, the company will help families gain greater control over their financial futures.
The broader economic impact of such initiatives cannot be overstated. Small businesses that successfully manage their finances are more likely to grow, hire employees, and contribute to local economies. When individuals and families are financially stable, they have greater purchasing power, which stimulates consumer spending and supports overall economic growth. Prosper Consulting LLC will work to ensure that its clients—both businesses and individuals—are positioned to thrive in an increasingly complex financial landscape.
Beyond consulting and education, the company will integrate innovative financial technologies into its approach. Many businesses struggle with outdated financial management practices that limit their efficiency and profitability. By assisting SMEs in adopting modern financial software, customer relationship management systems, and other technological tools, Prosper Consulting LLC will help businesses streamline their operations and make data-driven decisions that improve overall financial health.
As Prosper Consulting LLC prepares to launch, its impact has the potential to extend beyond individual businesses and families. By strengthening the financial literacy and stability of key economic players, the company will contribute to a more resilient economy—one where small businesses are equipped to navigate financial challenges and families are empowered to build secure futures. Silva’s vision for the company is rooted in her decades of experience helping clients overcome financial obstacles, and her commitment to economic empowerment will shape the firm’s long-term mission.
With an economy that remains unpredictable, the need for financial education and strategic business consulting has never been greater. Through Prosper Consulting LLC, Silva will bring solutions that address these urgent challenges, ensuring that both businesses and individuals have the financial tools necessary for sustained success.