If there is a positive side to the credit crisis story here in New York City then I think I may have found it at a tiny technology design firm called Human Condition that's just a cab ride away over the Brooklyn Bridge. Peter Raymond, the Chief Innovator and President of Human Condition, has had a difficult time getting a loan despite his stellar credit history and well run business. His story has become a familiar one. We have heard it time and time again over the past two years. But, Peter's story does outshine the rest a bit because of his positive attitude.

I was surprised to find someone so upbeat about not being able to secure the financing he needed for expansion, day-to-day operations, and crucial things like heat. Well, imagine my surprise when I walked into his office today and discovered that an emergency was staring Peter in the face. The temperature overnight had dipped down to record lows in the northeast, and Peter needs a loan to finance a much needed heating and air conditioning unit -- a big capital expenditure. But even the chill in the air didn't kill all the positive energy that was floating around. I figured if the cold shoulder treatment from his banks didn't dampen his spirit, then why should a frigid room stop him from obtaining his financial goals. He is exploring other options but says if that doesn't work out, he will pay for the installation himself.

Small businesses -- the heart and soul of our economy -- are faced with situations like this every day, and I have often wondered how they are able to face another day knowing they can't get the money they need to keep going. Today I got my answer firsthand as I was about to leave. Peter, with the excitement of being on the brink of something new, wanted to show me another project he is working on. And, right then, I found the answer -- innovation. I'm sure Peter cares deeply that he can't get the money he needs, but that truth has not deterred his desire to be creative and innovative in this economic downturn.