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Your Guide to Starting Your Own Business

All of the topics, tips and resources that will help you start a business from the ground up.

Expert Advice, Tips and Resources for Starting a Business From Scratch

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Trending Resources to Help You Start Your Business

The Best Small Business Government Grants in 2024
Find out how you can take advantage of these government grants to start or grow your business.
Skye Schooley
Skye Schooley
How to Write a Sales Plan
This guide explains the purpose of a sales plan, what it contains and how to write one that works for your business. It also includes a free template for your own sales plan.
Elizabeth  Veras
Elizabeth Veras
How to Start a Sole Proprietorship
Looking to start your own business? A sole proprietorship may be the perfect fit.
Simone Johnson
Simone Johnson
What Is Telematics?
Telematics gives businesses that operate a fleet of vehicles unique insight into their vehicles and drivers.
David Gargaro
David Gargaro
What Is a Professional Employer Organization (PEO)?
Here’s how to use a PEO for your business, including some benefits of a PEO company.
Matt D'Angelo
Matt D'Angelo
Choosing a Business Phone System: A Buyer’s Guide
Learn about the features available and how to select the best system for your business.
Chad Brooks
Chad Brooks

Latest in Starting a Business: Advice, Tips and Resources to Help You Become an Entrepreneur

See All Latest
Article
The Small Business Owners’ Guide to Getting an SBA Loan
By Matt D’Angelo | October 29, 2024

SBA loans have low rates and long terms. Learn which types of SBA loans are available and how to apply for one.

Article
Considering Alternative Lending? 6 Red Flags to Look For
By Sammi Caramela | October 29, 2024

Quick and easy financing isn't always so rosy.

happy officeworkers
Article
Founded When? America’s Oldest Companies
By Brittney Morgan | October 25, 2024

Despite wars and recessions, these 21 American companies have survived to stand the test of time. Learn what it takes to build a business that lasts.

Article
13 Businesses You Can Start Up Quickly
By Ross Mudrick | October 03, 2024

If you have a talent or service that others want, you could quickly set up a new business. Learn startup ideas, legal considerations and marketing tips.

Article
Companies Founded by Amazing Young Entrepreneurs
By Jennifer Post | October 03, 2024

These entrepreneurs have launched successful startups and learned a lot about the world of business and marketing ― all when they were 18 or younger.

Article
Pros and Cons of Forming a Corporation
By Skye Schooley | October 03, 2024

Learn the pros and cons of becoming a corporation so you can decide if incorporating is right for your business.

Article
Entrepreneurship Defined: What It Means to Be an Entrepreneur
By Max Freedman | October 03, 2024

What is an entrepreneur, exactly? See examples of successful entrepreneurs and find out how to become one yourself or improve as a business owner.

Article
How to Get a Business Phone Number
By Jeff Hale | October 02, 2024

This guide explains the benefits of a business phone number and walks you through the steps to obtain a phone number for your company.

Businesswoman talking on the phone
Article
Should My Business Get a Toll-Free Number?
By Adam Uzialko | October 02, 2024

Toll-free numbers have historically benefited small businesses, but they might be somewhat obsolete now. Here's how to decide whether you need one.

person taping up a box to ship
Article
Top E-Commerce Challenges Facing SMBs
By Jennifer Post | September 19, 2024

As the e-commerce industry continues to grow, small businesses are contending with hurdles. Learn the top challenges and what SMBs can do about them.

Article
What Is B2B, and How Does It Differ From B2C and DTC?
By Mark Fairlie | September 18, 2024

B2B companies offer products and services for other businesses and organizations. Learn how B2B works, and how it differs from B2C and DTC models.

Article
10 Cool Vegan-Friendly Businesses That Inspire
By Sammi Caramela | September 12, 2024

Vegan businesses are exploding in popularity. Learn about successful and inspiring vegan businesses to help you come up with your own vegan business idea.

Article
How to Choose the Best Legal Structure for Your Business
By Joshua Stowers | September 12, 2024

When starting a business, you need to set up the proper legal structure. Learn about your options and how to choose a structure.

Article
Entrepreneur Salaries: How Much Should You Pay Yourself?
By Nicole Fallon | September 12, 2024

As a business owner, at what point should you start giving yourself a salary, and how much do you pay yourself? Learn some key salary considerations.

Article
9 Places to Find Businesses for Sale Online
By Saige Driver | September 11, 2024

If you dream of entrepreneurship, you can get a head start by buying an established business. Find businesses for sale on these online platforms.

Accountant working at a desk
Article
How to Create an Invoice
By Max Freedman | September 11, 2024

Creating an invoice is a simple way to bill your customers and keep track of your accounts receivable. Here's what you need to know to create an invoice.

Coworkers sitting next to each other at a desk
Article
How to Run a Business in Florida
By Adam Uzialko | September 05, 2024

Understand the challenges and opportunities of doing business in Florida, including the tax laws, access to capital, cost of living, and labor market. 

Article
The Pros and Cons of Financing a Startup With Credit Cards
By Erica Sandberg | September 05, 2024

This guide explains the advantages and disadvantages of financing a small business with a credit card.

Article
Steve Jobs Biography
By Sean Peek | August 23, 2024

Apple co-founder Steve Jobs revolutionized the computer industry. Read Steve Jobs' biography, quotes and an analysis of his leadership style.

Article
You Do What?! 7 Businesses You Didn’t Know Were Legal
By Jeanette Mulvey | August 20, 2024

Some unusual businesses may seem illegal or unethical but are actually fully lawful. Explore some examples of dicey businesses that are aboveboard.

Article
How to Start a Sole Proprietorship
By Simone Johnson | August 15, 2024

Many business owners start sole proprietorships, which require little administrative work. Learn the pros and cons of starting a sole proprietorship.

Article
6 Steps to Becoming a Corporation
By Max Freedman | August 15, 2024

Follow six steps if you opt to become a corporation as your business's legal structure. Learn corporation types and how they differ from other structures.

Article
Articles of Incorporation vs Operating Agreements: What are the Differences?
By Skye Schooley | August 15, 2024

Learn the differences and similarities between articles of incorporation and operating agreements to determine which is necessary for your startup.

Article
What Is an LLC?
By Simone Johnson | August 15, 2024

An LLC is a limited liability company; it protects a business owner's personal assets. Learn the pros and cons of LLCs and how to start one.

Article
Immigrant Entrepreneurs: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started
By Matt D’Angelo | August 15, 2024

Starting a business as an immigrant can be challenging yet rewarding. Learn how to find the correct visa and discover the right information and resources.

Article
What Is a C Corporation?
By Sean Peek | August 14, 2024

C corporations are usually publicly traded companies owned by shareholders. Learn how they differ from other structures and how to start one.

two business partners conversing at a desk
Article
Articles of Incorporation: What New Business Owners Should Know
By Max Freedman | August 14, 2024

This guide explains the importance of articles of incorporation and why new businesses must file them with the appropriate state agencies.

Businesswoman talking on the phone
Article
Want to Be Your Own Boss? 10 Fields to Consider
By Sean Peek | August 13, 2024

Many people dream of working for themselves. Learn about self-employed jobs that let you be your own boss and the top careers for the self-employed.

Article
Should You Set up Your Business as an LLC or an S Corporation?
By Simone Johnson | August 09, 2024

Selecting the correct business type can help your business succeed and flourish. Find out whether your company should be an LLC or an S corporation.

Article
How to Start a Business: A Step-by-Step Guide
By Joshua Stowers | August 09, 2024

If you’re starting a new small business, find out where to begin and how to achieve success.