Your Guide to Starting Your Own Business

A market analysis can take time and effort, but it's easy to do on your own in just seven steps.

A business partnership agreement outlines the rights and obligations of partners in a business. Learn how to write one and what it should include.

If you want to protect your business's intellectual property, the first step is to register and trademark your brand name. Here's how.

There are many government grants available for small businesses. Find out how you can use them to start or grow your business.

If your business relies of foot traffic, your business's location is crucial to success. Get tips on how to choose the right location for your company.

Does your startup need a business license? Learn which types of business licenses and permits your small business may need and how to acquire them.

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

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

Having a business bank account, rather than mingling business finances with personal finances, protects your business and your personal finances.

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

Opening a franchise can be profitable, but it requires some work upfront. This guide explains everything you need to know before launching a franchise business.

Find out what business insurance is, the different types of policies, the costs and how to determine what you need.

Learn the ins and outs of a company merger and the various types of mergers businesses form.

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

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.

Many companies start as sole proprietorships. Here's how to make your business into one.

Should you form a corporation? Learn about the types of corporations and the pros and cons of incorporating.

The executive summary is a crucial part of your business plan. Learn the steps involved in writing an executive summary and what to include and avoid.

Every state has laws and regulations governing marijuana usage. Here's what entrepreneurs need to know to start a cannabis business in the space.

Veteran business loans are available to help former service members grow their businesses. Find out if you qualify.

Find out what a surety bond is, the benefits and the role insurance companies play.

Learn the inner workings of e-commerce businesses and how you can run one.

Selling products online is more popular than ever. Here's how you can get started with e-commerce.

There are multiple ways to get funding for your franchise, such as borrowing from a franchisor and looking for funding from the SBA.

Many rules and regulations govern e-commerce. These six, in particular, could significantly impact your small business.

Mission statements reflect your company's goals, purpose and values – why it exists. Learn how to craft the perfect mission statement for your business.

Your payroll schedule determines how many pay periods are in a year. Find out if you should pay your employees weekly, biweekly, semimonthly or monthly.

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.

Learn why small businesses are better at customer service than larger enterprises and what bigger ones should do to improve client experiences.

Small businesses impact real estate values by creating a thriving local economy. Learn how real estate and SMBs coexist and help their communities.