Your Guide to Starting Your Own Business

Alternative lending has become a popular small business financing option, but not all nontraditional loans are good. Look for these six warning signs.

If you're an entrepreneur selling creative wares online, Etsy is the obvious choice. But check out these 13 Etsy alternatives that may be right for you.

Small businesses in Maine enjoy accessible capital and reasonable regulations. Learn why Maine is the business-friendliest state.

What should you do if someone sues your small business? Here's advice from legal experts on how to handle a business lawsuit.

Want to get started on an entrepreneurial venture right away? These easy-to-start businesses are great ways to make some extra money in a pinch.

See how these five companies are making women's health products more accessible.

Calling all fashionistas: There are plenty of fashionable startup opportunities ahead. Break into the industry with one of these ideas.

Looking for a new business idea? Here are 20 creative business ideas to inspire you.

Learn how an incubator can nurture a startup, and how it differs from similar economic development programs.

Want to start a retail business but can't afford an expensive commercial storefront? Here are a few budget-friendly alternatives.

Recent data shows you can make more money freelancing than with a traditional job. Learn about the earning power, upsides and downsides of freelancing.

If you need to get a second income or grow a business on the side, here are 10 ideas on how to earn more money.

A financial crisis can destroy a business, but these five companies rebounded from the brink of bankruptcy. Learn how your business can bounce back too.

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

Before you apply for a business bank account, you need to gather your business licenses and identification documents. Get the full list here.

A business consultant can help you streamline processes and boost profits. Learn what consultants do and how to choose the right one.

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

The number of businesses being opened by immigrants is growing, and naturalized citizens are twice as likely to start their own businesses.

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.

Business insurance protects your company against financial loss and liability. Learn what business insurance types are best for your industry and needs. 

How are small business owners performing in California, and what are the challenges, opportunities and available resources?

Sometimes, all it takes is someone noticing your talents for a great small business idea to form.

While every business needs a business plan, you don't need a novel to tell the story of your business. Instead, your business plan should be a living, changing document that focuses on the most...

We reached out to small business experts to find out about the biggest startup mistakes. Learn what they are and how you can avoid them.

The founder of The Lucky Cupcake Company started her business during a terrible economy. Today, she's expanded beyond cupcakes and runs a successful bakery in her Pennsylvania home town.

If you run a business in Michigan or are thinking of launching a new business, you should know the challenges and opportunities facing your state.

Learn how to write an executive summary for your business plan and what should be included.

Many startup businesses fail by their second year. Learn why so many fail and how your business can avoid the same mistakes.

Not budgeting enough for startup costs can cause a business to fail. Here are the most important business startup costs entrepreneurs should know about.

If you're looking for growth capital, angel investors might be the right partners for you. Here how to find the right one for you.