Your Guide to Starting Your Own Business

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

Debt and equity financing are very different ways to finance your new business. Here are pros and cons for each, and how to decide which is best for you.

Searching for the right bank can be hard if you don't know what you're looking for. Click to read about business banking services you should consider.

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

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

B2C stands for business to consumer. In B2C transactions, businesses sell products or services directly to consumers. Learn how B2C businesses operate.

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

Tracking business expenses is an important part of managing cash flow and maximizing tax deductions. Here are the business expenses you should track.

For a quick monetary boost that could help you launch your new small business, consider obtaining a microloan.

Applying for a business loan from a bank takes multiple steps to ensure your approval. This guide will help you understand how bank business loans work.

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 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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.