April 9 – Pivotal Moments in Small Business History

1. 1957 – The First Computer Program for Business Runs Successfully

On April 9, 1957, the first successful test of the IBM 702 computer running a business application occurred. The program was developed for General Electric to manage payroll, marking a turning point where computers began reshaping business operations.

2. 1968 – The Founding of Intel Corporation

Intel Corporation, a pioneer in semiconductor technology, was founded by Robert Noyce and Gordon Moore on this day in 1968. Intel's innovations, particularly the microprocessor, would go on to fuel the growth of the personal computer industry and revolutionize small business technology.

3. 1984 – The Release of the First CD-ROM for Business Data Storage

On April 9, 1984, Sony and Philips introduced the CD-ROM format, allowing businesses to store massive amounts of data in a compact, durable format. This innovation opened new avenues for digital information management, changing how small businesses handled data.

4. 1998 – eBay Goes Public, Ushering in a New Era of E-Commerce

eBay went public on April 9, 1998, transforming how small businesses could sell products online. eBay’s platform enabled entrepreneurs to reach a global market and democratized access to e-commerce for millions of small sellers.

5. 2012 – Facebook Acquires Instagram for $1 Billion

In a strategic move to expand its digital influence, Facebook acquired Instagram on April 9, 2012. This acquisition helped small businesses leverage visual marketing through social media, creating new channels for brand growth and customer engagement.

📢 Why It Matters:

Each of these milestones has profoundly impacted small businesses by introducing transformative technologies and opportunities. From the first computer program to Instagram's visual marketing power, April 9 marks key turning points that continue to shape modern entrepreneurship.

Dr. Ethan Fairbanks, M.B.H. (Master of Business History)

#Small Business History #Business Tech #Intel Innovation #eCommerce Revolution #Digital Transformation #April 9 BizFacts