Start-up


Recent Start-up Guides

How Risky Are Cash Advances?

By Matthew DeLuca |  Sep 21, 2011

While a quick source of capital, cash advances can be a gamble. Ask yourself these four questions before tapping into this source.  Read more


How to Blog to Attract Investors

By Matthew DeLuca |  Sep 12, 2011

Venture capitalists and angel investors weigh in on what they're looking for in your company blog.  Read more


How to Assess the Market Potential of Your Idea

By Darren Dahl |  Sep 6, 2011

Not sure if your new business idea is good enough to succeed? Here are six ways to test it.  Read more


How to Prepare to Launch Your Start-up

By Matthew DeLuca |  Aug 29, 2011

Preparing to launch your start-up means more than simply making sure you have a viable product and potential customers. Here are five tips on how to prepare ...  Read more


What to Do When Your Franchiser Declares Bankruptcy

By Darren Dahl |  Aug 22, 2011

If your franchiser declares bankruptcy, it might not be the end of the line for your business. Here are some tips to give you some ideas about what to do next.  Read more


4 Tips on Choosing the Right Logo Design Services

By Abram Brown |  Aug 19, 2011

Designers, experts, and small business owners suggest these four tips for finding the right firm. Plus: a list of three design shops worth trying  Read more


The Best Back Office Software for Running Your Business

By Christina DesMarais |  Aug 17, 2011

Last month we told you the best options for front office software. This month we asked the experts to weigh in on back office software to improve your busine...  Read more


The New Rules of Getting Press for Your Start-up

By Darren Dahl |  Aug 15, 2011

Think Facebook and Twitter are all you need to get the word out about your new business? Here are eight more ways to get some media attention.  Read more


6 Steps to Franchising Your Business

By Matthew DeLuca |  Jul 27, 2011

Franchising your small business may be a good way to grow fast. Figuring out whether or not franchising will work for you is a matter of knowing your busines...  Read more


How to Write an Operational Plan for Your Business

By Darren Dahl |  Jul 27, 2011

In 2010, Sean Bandawat acquired Jacob Bromwell, a specialty housewares company that's been in existence since 1819. Here, he shares his operational plan, foc...  Read more


9 Steps to Effective Problem Solving | Business Insider

By Martin Zwilling |  Jul 26, 2011

Problem solving is a skill that start-up founders need to learn quickly. Use these steps to guide you.  Read more


8 Questions to Ask Before Incorporating Your Business Partnership

By Darren Dahl |  Jul 25, 2011

So you've found a business partner to help make your idea a reality. Be sure to ask yourselves these eight questions before incorporating.  Read more


How to Attract a Peer Lender

By KC Ifeanyi |  Jul 22, 2011

Peer-to-peer lending has found its niche among small business owners in need of quick cash. Find out if it’s right for you, and learn some expert tips on a...  Read more


9 Reasons Why It Pays to Imitate

By Darren Dahl |  Jul 21, 2011

Rather than get stuck trying to come up with the next great innovation, consider these nine reasons why you might be better off imitating and improving upon ...  Read more


Take Your Green Business Idea to the Next Level

By Matthew DeLuca |  Jul 12, 2011

Starting a green business isn't easy, but these days even the most established companies are trying to find ways to go green. The market is open to entrepren...  Read more


New Rules of Getting a Small Business Loan

By KC Ifeanyi |  Jun 29, 2011

The worst of the economic plummet appears to be over. Use this upswing to your advantage with these tips on getting the money your business needs.  Read more


How to Become a Benefit Corporation

By Carolyn M. Brown |  Jun 24, 2011

Community-minded entrepreneurs can legally structure their businesses to provide a social benefit and to turn a profit.  Read more


How to Get Your Family to Invest Without Drama

By Nicole Carter |  Jun 19, 2011

Parents are a common source of start-up cash. Here's how to navigate this tricky relationship and keep it drama-free from the start.  Read more


How to Prepare Your Management Team for an Acquisition

By Darren Dahl |  Jun 16, 2011

While the deal makes sense on paper, you know it's never that easy to pull off, which is why you'll need your management team prepped to make it happen as sm...  Read more


What You Should Know About Working With Business Brokers

By Darren Dahl |  Jun 16, 2011

Whether you're interested in selling your business or buying one, odds are you'll want to engage a business broker to help you through the process.  Read more