Starting Your Small Business
Business startup is fraught with confusion and misunderstandings. Get it right and you're on your way to a successful, growing company. Fall into a trap, and your small business will be closing its doors almost as soon as they open. Here's a selection of advice and information on launching your venture the right way.
Exploring Ideas for a Business Startup
Q: I’m looking for a business to start. A franchise operation or existing business is not of interest to me. Is there any trade show, event or other resource that offers business start-up ideas?
Getting the Legal Papers for Startup
Q: I work full time and make gift baskets on the side, which I would like to try to sell at a street fair. What legal documents do I need?
Start-ups Risky for Investors
Consider attending angel investor networking events to get a sense of the range of opportunities available.
Licenses, Legalities for Your Business
Q: How do I start a small business cleaning offices and showrooms?
Viewing Tax Filings in Buying a Business
Q: I’m interested in buying a portrait studio in Texas. I went there, talked with the broker and the owner and looked over the facilities. I liked what I saw, but when I asked to see tax returns for the business, the broker told me I could get access to them only after we agreed on a purchase price.
When Should You Quit Your Day Job?
Entrepreneurs who hold down a full-time job while bootstrapping a startup must time their departure based on their confidence in the new business.
Starting a Business in the Logistics Industry
As e-commerce and a relatively low U.S. dollar fuel international trade, the logistics industry may be a good place to start a new business.
Turning a Hobby into a Business
It's important to start your new venture with all your ducks in a row. You'll save time and money down the road.
Finding the Perfect Location
A restaurant's nationwide expansion offers entrepreneurs in other industries lessons on how to determine the right place for their own businesses.
How To Open a Small Town Store
Yes, location matters. Experts suggest aspiring retailers find a highly trafficked spot, and offer more tips for getting started.
A Checklist for Your New Business
Use this list to get a handle on free resources, take care of procedural items, and decide on a business structure.
Instead of Retirement, Entrepreneurship
To start a business at midlife, decide how much money you're comfortable risking, assess your skills and passions, then ease your way in.
Setting Up a One-Person Corporation
Sole directorships are legal in some states, but you don't have to incorporate just to be able to offer employees a stake in the company
Crucial Steps to Getting Started
Entrepreneurs and startup experts weigh in on what they consider most important when launching a new business.
Basics of Finding the Right Franchise
Q: I’d like to buy a franchise, but how do I choose one?
PODCAST:Are You Entrepreneur Material?
How can you know whether you truly have the stuff it takes to be your own boss?
PODCAST: For Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Are you ready for your second act?
PODCAST: Surviving the First Year
How to avoid startup pitfalls.
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