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Sunday, May 25, 2008

How To Start A Small Business Online

If you would love to start your own small business online, you'll be joining millions of others who already do this. You can consider the many advantages financial freedom, scheduling your own working hours and the opportunity to create the job you've only been dreaming of as part of the dream. Unfortunately, most people really don't know how to start a small business online. While it 's true that the internet is saturated with information on starting new businesses, people usually end up more confused than ever.

Clear your mind, because prior to seeking more information on how to start a small business online, you'll need to ask yourself some important questions at the outset. What type of business do you wish to do? If its a product or service that you're good at, is there a demand for it? It'll help to choose a business that you love, rather than for the big bucks you are likely to make. If you're truly passionate about it, the big bucks will take care of themselves.

Don't be discouraged, if you need to know how to start a small business online, you'll find that it 's as simple as starting just about any other business. First, contact your local town council, they can provide you with information on the basic requirements to get you started, as well the state and federal laws that apply. Registration of a trade name is also mandatory in most states.

Closer to home, you'll need to consider other essentials to start you off. You may decide to open a business bank account or PayPal, i.e., whichever is required by law, or convenient. Business books will also be needed to keep track of purchase, sales and receipts, as will a good computer system. A website can greatly benefit your business, however, you need to consider the costs involved, particularly when you think about building your website. For a start, you'll need hosting and a domain.

Keep in mind, there are limitless options available to building your website. A single webpage is easy to build and sell your products, e.g., Google Pages, Windows Office Live, and a lot more. Blogging can also be useful and offers an unlimited number of hosted solutions, e.g.,Wordpress or Blogger. If you select one of these options, then you would do well to consider investing in a domain name, because even if you aren't paying for hosting, this will help to make your site look more professional and attractive to potential customers.

Spare whatever time you can to gather information relevant to your business. Talk to friends or reliable internet marketers who may already be running successful small businesses of their own. The internet can also provide you with an unlimited number of professional business models to guide you on how to start a small business online. However, at the end of the day, if you choose a business that you love and are truly passionate about it, you'll have the two basic ingredients for success.

About the Author

Terry Pierce provides helpful Strategies and Tips to anyone interested in creating a home based business or grow the home based business you already have. Find out how you can profit from an online business Today at my website which is at http://www.profitcatchers.com

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Starting a Small Business in Sacramento

If you are thinking of starting a small business in Sacramento, then now is an excellent time, since real estate prices are down compared to the previous 3 years and retail inflation is also quite in control. Here are some helpful tips to help you start your own business in Sacramento.

Sacramento, the capital of California, has also had its share of foreclosure problems and hence has made the real estate prices stagnant. This is good news if you plan to start a new business because you can now get your business premises, be it a store or office or even a house at a reasonable rate. Sacramento has many departments, which could help you in getting started. One of them is the SBA or the United States Small Business Administration. This department can provide you business loans and arrange for venture capital. Their centers provide assistance to more than a million small business owners, by organizing many workshops, which provide the necessary skills and the right tools to start and maintain your business.

You can get around 85% or your loan amount approved within 10 days, with the SBA standing as guarantor, if you have provided the proper documents while applying for the loan, your projected opening day balance sheet, your projection of income, cash flow and expenses etc. The SBA can also arrange for venture capital for your new business. Under the Guarantee of the SBA, the venture capitalists offer funds for your new business but you will be required to share your profits with them. They can also arrange for debt equity investment and assistance in management.

The OSBD or the Office of Small Business Development of the City of Sacramento can also provide help to you by giving you the correct information and training you in the choice of business. It can also provide you with an Ombudsman and legal services for your small business. The SBDC or Greater Sacramento Small Business Development Center can also provide you with group workshops and training on licensing, permits, accounts, taxes, sales and marketing, and arranging finance. This program is subsidized through state government grants and is offered at no cost to the small business owner. The SETA or Sacramento Employment and Training Agency will help you find the right type of employees needed for your business. They also offer training to staff.

Just like starting a new business anywhere in the U.S. research well on the line of business you plan to start. Use the Internet, consult a mentor and ask around in your family or friend circle. Hire a good attorney and tax consultant to take care of your legal and accounting issues of your business. Hire local people to handle your sales and marketing side, who have good knowledge about the local market. This is especially important if you are opening a small hardware or grocery store. Get your licenses and permits right. Enquire about the local zoning laws especially if you are opening a car wash center or an auto garage, or if you are planning to open up an office in your home.

With its moderate weather and a right mix of immigrants providing you with ready labor, Sacramento is a good city to start your new business. So go ahead, convert your dreams into reality in Sacramento.

About the Author

Sacramento Limos are not all the same. Luxury Limousines has the best fleet in Sacramento to ensure your event is memorable. Check out our Limosine Fleet at: http://www.luxxlimo.com.

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Pursuing Government Grants For Your Small Business

What is free government money? Here are a few facts about federal government grants. These grants truly are free government money. You do not have to repay this government grant money. You are not charged any interest on these government grant money. The grants are totally tax free money. You do not require any credit history or banking record to receive these grants.

All the facts above are very good reasons for ordinary people to pursue government grant money.

A commonly asked question is, are there really any government grant programs for the type of business I want to start, an online business?

The Answer, Yes, there are lot many government grant programs or free government money for all types of small businesses, including home based internet businesses.

But before we go into details about government grant programs or free government money for small business, let me caution you about some things.

The money is free but it is not free from government regulations and rules. The first thing you must know is that there is full monitoring and auditing of these government grants. You are expected to spend the money you request in particular manner and for the particular purpose that you applied for.

The grant money that was mutually agreed upon must be spent within a particular time frame. If you fail to follow the conditions set from the government, then there can be heavy penalties, sometimes leading to fines and maybe even your imprisonment. So make sure that the grant you are seeking for your small business is used for the specific purpose that you stated when you applied grant. And make sure the money is used within agreed upon time frame.

Another question that is very common is, how much money is really distributed by the US government for small business purposes?

The answer, can you believe that more than thirty billion dollars are given annually by the government to help small businesses? Yes It 's true.

The thirty billion dollars comes from more than eighty sources at the federal government level, all allocated for small businesses across America. There are also more than three thousand state level sources that sre the source of funding for almost any small business.

There are sub categories also. There are different government grant programs for women, for low income groups and for minorities. More than twelve millions is set aside for these sub category groups.

There can be two basic types of monetary help for small businesses. You can get start up capital to start the business. You can also get monetary help to expand your existing business. More than one million small businesses have received free government money on an annual basis.

What sort of businesses are covered under these government grants for small business programs? As I mentioned before, practically every type of industry, home base industry and so many others are covered under these programs. There are just to many to list in this short article. The research you perform will expose the exhausting list of qualified businesses available for these federal and state grants.

If your grant search is intensive and thorough enough you will have no problem finding a grant to fit your needs. When you do find one choose one that is suitable for your needs. Make sure that you qualify and are truly eligible for the grant. If you are persistent enough to get through all of the red tape and follow the application instructions as instructed you may be well on your way to benefitting from a free government grant for your small business.

I hope this article was of some use to you and good luck with your search for a federal or state government grant.

About the Author

Terry Pierce provides helpful Strategies and Tips to anyone interested in creating a home based business or grow the home based business you already have. Find out how you can profit from an online business Today at my website which is at http://www.profitcatchers.com

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Small Business Loans: Secured or Unsecured?

Working capital is a very important factor for the development of any business organization. The lack of this resource may have you face extreme difficulties, like not being able to meet your daily expenses or simply not reaching your expectations or increasing your level of productivity.

More importantly, if you just started your business, you will need a strong financial support to be able to properly execute your business plans and projects that are the very essential component for making your firm a successful business company in the market.

This financial help can be easily achieved through unsecured sources, like a business cash advance, which is the best alternative to the banks small business loans. Getting a business cash advance means that you will be getting the money you need from your future credit card sales. Even if you have a poor credit history, you can still easily apply for it.

Applying for a small business loan is probably the best financial support for your business. But with a business cash advance you can use the money in any way your business may need it. Achieving your fund needs for starting your own business firm, to manage your daily business financial needs like: paying due bills, buying equipment, office accessories, payroll, etc, all these can be easily accomplished through the help of small business loan.

If you want to apply for these types of loans, what defines the amount loaned is your personal credit history and not how successful your business may be, that 's why knowing about business cash advances come in handy.

In fact, it is your own personal financial status that will be considered for the approval of the small business loan, instead a business cash advance will be given to your business and its proven track record, so you may even qualify for a cash advance even with a bad credit history. These cash advances are easily accessible through several lending companies and banks.

Small business loans are available in both secured and unsecured forms of loans, also known as business cash advances. You will end up making your decision depending on many factors like, amount needed and whether you want to risk your personal assent or not . Any small, big and medium size businesses will, at one point, need ways of securing working capital.

For instance when taking a secured business loan, you'll have to pay a security or any other valuable asset. Most business owners that choose secured business loans, it 's because it offers higher loan amount and lower rate of interest as in comparison to that of business cash advance. On the other hand merchant who have chosen business cash advances know that they have its own number of advantages.

With a cash advance, the merchant is free from offering any sort of collateral. And the payback comes out of future credit card sales, with no fixed payments. Unsecured business loans make a great option for those looking for fast and easy loans.

All businesses have their own set of financial problems. But when you start a new company, the difficulties appear to be much bigger because the merchant lacks of practical experience of handling such situations as well as having limited financial resources. That 's why applying for business cash advances is acknowledged as very suitable option for most types of businesses.

About the Author

David Castro often writes articles about Business Cash Advances and Small Business Loans for Merchant Resources International - To Learn more Visit Us at http://www.cashprior.com.

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Starting A Small Business

Starting a small business involves many types of decisions, steps and processes. The beginning is a big matter for the entrepreneur. You have to perform different activities to find out what you will be doing, when you will do it, and how you will do it.

You have to find answer to many questions. You will have different operations to perform like selecting the business, the industry, ownership form, finance, business plan, tax related issues, business process, site selection, licenses, registration and so on. The list is very big.

You have to not only perform these; but have to perform them fine. You have to prioritize the activities and perform them accordingly. For an inexperienced entrepreneur, the tasks become more needed.

Starting a small business may be divided into two stages: one is pre-startup stage, and the other is post startup stage.

Pre-startup Stage:

This stage is actually a planning stage. You have to plan your activities and act accordingly. This stage is very crucial as you plan out your whole business here only.

In this stage you will decide about the idea of business. The idea development will take sometime. Idea generation depends on many factors like your exposure, background, family, education, psychological state, prior experience, cultural background etc. Business ideas will vary from person to person. Your previous experiences will decide what you will do.

After you decide the idea, you will have to prepare a business plan. A business plan contains everything about the business idea like idea, market, process of producing or developing it, finance needed and finance sources, financial projection etc. You can make it yourself or you can delegate it to experts.

You have to arrange for the finance for your small business in this stage. Finance source may be different for you. You have to complete the entire certificate and license related works. You will need to find out the location and start the structure for future processing.

Post startup stage:

This is the implementation of the idea and plans. The entire plan that you have for your small business is to be done practically.

You have to mage the business in this stage. Already you have started the small business. Now you have to manage it daily. You have to mange the customer related issues, employee related issues, inventory and supply chain related issues, and production related issues.

Starting a small business can happen in three ways. You can start a new business, you can acquire already existing business, or you can start a franchisee of a reputed organization.

Starting a New Business:

You will start a new enterprise from scratch. This is a long term process and is really tough. You have to start and build all the systems in a business.

Acquiring a existing business:

If you want to acquire an already existing business, then it is a little easier for you than starting a new business. Here you get some of the systems of the business pre built. This will help you to start the business fast. You can select a business that you want to start. You can design it accordingly after you take it over. You will get customers existing already.

Franchising:

You can start a franchise, if you like to. Franchise business has many advantages. You do not have to build it up for is already built. You get the brand image facilities, the name, and support from the brand or the franchisor, and get marketing support. You do not have to think about the inventory, supply chain, marketing, advertising, and brand building. So, you can start a profitable business from the start.

About the Author

Zach Thompson is a Glyconutrients Representative. His clients range from actresses to pro athletes. You can get a free Glyconutrients consultation by visiting the site.

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The Best Path To Small Business Funding

From time to time, many businesses need to be able to find small business funding. It could be that things have been going well with your company and you are looking at financing an expansion project to take advantage of the potential for growth in your business, or it could be that your finances have taken a turn for the worse. Sometimes through no fault of ownership or management, the economy slows down, and sales begin to drop. When that happens your businesses cash reserves can become depleted, and your cash flow dries up. Without adequate cash flow, your business will die. When that happens, you need to be able to find a good source of small business funding to keep things moving in the right direction.

If your business is already established with a solid history of profitability and good credit, finding small business funding should not be too difficult, especially if the business has a relationship with a local bank. Depending on the amount that you want to borrow, it is typically just a matter of talking with your local banker to get the paperwork started. For smaller funding need of less than $100,000, many financial institutions do not require business plans, or any detailed reports of how the financing will be used. For larger amounts of money, the amount of supporting documentation that is required by the lender will increase. The amount of documentation required and the amount of money that will require additional documentation will depend on the lender. While there are many similarities between banks, the specifics will vary from bank to bank.

If your business has not been around very long, or if there have been financial and credit problems in the past, you may need to seek out one of the many lenders that specialize in unsecured loans in order to find the small business funding that you require. There are financial companies that focus on lending to businesses that may have been turned down by traditional lenders. These forms of financing are usually structured a little differently than conventional business loans, and the rates of interest will be higher, but the requirements to qualify for the financing are much lower.

Most small business funding comes in two forms. The first form is a traditional loan, where the money is transferred to the businesses account in a lump sum. Once the money is transferred, interest begins accruing until the entire loan is repaid. Thi9s form of funding is typically for businesses that have a one time need, and they require the all of money at that time.

The second form of funding is a line of credit. This is great for small businesses that have ongoing need for smaller amounts of financing. With a line of credit an account is set up, similar to a checking account, with a certain amount of money available through that account. As money is needed, it can be withdrawn from that account. Interest is only charged on the amount that has been withdrawn. If more money is needed, the business simply withdraws more from the account.

Finding appropriate financing is an important aspect of many businesses. For some, the ability to find the right small business funding is the difference between success and failure.

About the Author

David Castro often writes articles about Small Business Funding and Small Business Loans for Merchant Resources International - To Learn more Visit Us at http://www.cashprior.com.

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Selecting the Right Small Business Phone System

Choosing a phone system is not usually the first thing on a new small business owner 's mind. Even after your office is established and operational, your small business' phone system will likely function so smoothly that it will fade into the background.

But what do you do when you need to install a new small phone system or replace an existing phone system? Do you know the choices available to you and what every option means? Small business phone systems can seem confusing, but knowing the basics can help you buy the phone system that 's just right for your business.

The first thing to remember is that there are four basic types of commercial phone systems to choose from. The first, Private Branch Exchange (also known as PBX) systems, are known to most of us as the huge and confusing cabinets with dedicated operators. Luckily, there are smaller-scale PBX systems for your small business. Since many office workers are familiar with PBX systems, which are becoming more affordable every year, this is often the best choice for small businesses.

Another very popular option for small to mid-size businesses is the key system. This type of phone system consists of a key system unit that controls all of the other phones in the business. The KSU controls the features and functions of each phone, such as voicemail, and ensures that one line is never in use by more than one user at a time.

The key system allows in-system phones to dial each other directly via extension and lets the operator of the KSU supervise the operation of the entire system to ensure that all users' needs are met. The key system is also very expandable with new software.

These two types of phone systems have become very similar as technology has progressed. Features that were once available only on PBX systems are now readily available on systems that are referred to as key systems. Phone systems that share features of PBX and key systems are often called hybrids and offer the most features with the most expandability.

For very small businesses of two to 10 employees, a KSU-less system may be the most appropriate choice. A KSU-less system features phones that each contain the KSU-type technology so that they can provide the functions and features that key systems provide, but without the central unit.

One of the largest benefits to the KSU-less system is that it is not permanently wired into the building like other types of phone systems. Since the technology is contained in the phones, there is no complicated equipment to move when your business moves to a new building.

A newer technology in the small business phone system realm is voice over internet protocol, or VoIP. VoIP phone systems send voice calls over a broadband connection rather than phone lines. VoIP technology can facilitate your small business phone needs for a much lower cost and higher quality than traditional phone systems.

The type of phone system that you choose for your small business depends on your needs and expectations. The easiest way to see if a small business phone system is appropriate for you is to try it out. Just picking up the phones and pressing buttons can give you a feel for how the system operates. Make sure that features are easy to access and understand.

Any time you purchase a new system for your small business phone needs, remember to think of how your business will grow in the future. Ask the installer to give you much more wiring than you need currently to avoid having to pay for pricey future rewiring.

Keep your staff in mind. If you have a large staff, a KSU-less system probably will not be adequate for your needs; you will need to invest in a PBX or hybrid. Luckily, the prices of these sophisticated phone systems are coming down every year. If you time your purchase to coincide with the end of the quarter (when sales reps are hungry for sales), you may be able to get a new small business phone system for much less than you expect. Having the right phone system for your small business can make a huge difference in the way that you and your staff interact with each other and with your customers.

About the Author

Copyright 2008. Chris Monato. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
For more information on finding the best small business phone system visit: http://smallbusinessphone.blogspot.com

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Why An Extensive Banking Strategy Is Important For Your Small Business

You may be a small time entrepreneur just starting or a business or an executive with years of trading experience, either way you need to recognise the importance of efficient business banking. Your choice of account is a fundamental element in your business banking strategy and something that could seriously affect the progress of your business, be it large or small. Here are few advisory tips to help the small business owner to make the right banking choices and give your business the best chance of success.

If you are starting out as a limited company you will need to open a business account. While this may seem a chore, it is surprising how having a specialist business banking strategy can aid the clarity of your finances. On the other hand if you are operating as a sole trader you small business will not have to have its own account, you will be able to combine your personal and business finances. Finding a banking solution that accommodates both the needs of your small business and your personal life can be difficult, often, even as a sole trader it can be beneficial to have a dual banking strategy.

Another element of your business banking strategy should be the inclusion of a small business team in your account package. The advice that can be offered by these professionals can be invaluable and can help your business achieve success. While this type of banking solution may cost a little extra if you are not up to date with the latest financial developments, the effects can be catastrophic.

Of major importance for your small business is the banking charges that may be applicable to your account. Some of these fees will be fixed on a monthly basis while others may be based upon a pro rata system for each individual transaction that may be carried out. If your business is likely to perform many transactions it is advisable to take a monthly fixed charge option as it will probably work out cheaper.

Finding out about which banking extras come with your banking agreement is also important. These extras may include credit cards, free statements or internet and phone banking, which can be a beneficial. Some of these extras will be free for an initial period, so be financially wise and take advantage of this period and take all your can, after all when starting in business, the more help you can get while your business is small will pay dividends in the long run.

After making a detailed comparison of the different banking solutions offered by banks it will be time to open an account. Depending upon what type of company you will be running there are various pieces of information and documentation you will need for the process. Some banks may even ask for a business plan before they allow you to open account, this is an insurance on their part to assess whether your business model and idea is viable.

If starting a limited company you will need a Certificate of Incorporation before your banking can begin. You will also need several forms of identification, for yourself, but also for any other signatories that may have access to the account. This list of signatories will also need to be produced so the bank knows exactly who will have access to the funds.

It is worth remembering that you are not tied to any bank or account for life, it is possible to change. If you do sufficient research however you should not have to change and your business should benefit from having an effective banking system behind it. By following this brief advice you should be able to find an account that fulfils your business' needs and adds to the chances of success.

About the Author

Financial expert Thomas Pretty looks into the importance of small business banking solutions to the success of your company.

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4 Small Business Myths Revealed and Squashed

Don't you just love the thought of being an entrepreneur? What could be more fun than being your own boss and kicking that 9 to 5 routine, working just about when you when to, taking a day off on a whim, spending quality time with your family and friends! Do you think? Well, the grass is always greener on the other side. And on this side, it definitely is; provided you cross over with your eyes open.

Let us go through some of the most common myths and learn why you are better off keeping your eyes open.

Myth # 1) Small businesses are widely supported by government funding and venture capitalists -
Sure, the state government has set aside funds for small businesses. But this funding is limited. And it is targeted at special types of businesses, a specific group of people and even to encourage businesses in specific regions or geographies! All these are special eligibility criteria and you are expected to meet them before you can apply for these grants. You may have a great business idea. But that in itself is not good enough to attract interest from Venture Capitalists. To back up a great business idea, you shall need to substantiate your proposal with a great business plan. Also, you shall be required to outline a plausible strategy to fuel the growth potential of your proposed venture.

Myth # 2) Small startups do not need business plans -
Any business needs a Business Plan to get started. Why is it important? A Business Plan helps you pen your ideas about the business and make it work on paper. It helps you uncover potential problem areas and address them before you get into the real work arena. It also helps you learn more about your business by forcing you to research on the subject matter.

Myth # 3) I will save a lot on expenses and taxes -
This is not entirely true. All business have their specific set of expenses. And you cannot get a rebate on all of them. While a few home based businesses can claim tax breaks, you cannot add your electricity bill or cable expenses to the list! You are only allowed to claim a legitimate part of reasonable business expenses and a small percentage of your home expenses backed with proof of use for business.

Myth # 4) I will have all the free time in the world!-
No can do! Sure, you will be able to take advantage of flexible work hours and take your dog to the vet! But being an entrepreneur is a full time job! It requires focus and dedication and maybe even extra hours of work, especially in the first few years as you try to get the business on its feet. And the returns may not always justify the effort you put in. Very few business owners will agree that they can take off for that game of tennis at any given time.

Small business myths are so wonderfully appealing, and so believable that we rarely stop to think twice. There are benefits to having your own small business, but be aware of the realities of owning your own business - talk to others who have owned their own small businesses for a while and research how to own and grow your own small business before starting it.

About the Author

Doug Brown uses his 30 plus years of business building experiences to educate people and businesses on how to dramatically increase their revenues. Free Report "17 Strategic Steps to Steps to Achieving a Six Figure Income or More" at http://www.whatisyourplan.com/.

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Be Organized And Your Small Business Will Thrive

Operating a small business might take over your life if you are not careful and organized.

Unlike within big companies where you may possibly take into service scores of men and women to do an assortment of tasks, running a small business entails the small business owner to do lots of the tasks themselves. Some of the everyday jobs would be things like doing your accounts, lodging trademarks, carrying out the ordering etc. Often as you start in small business, you can not get enough money to sign up other men and women to do these everyday jobs.

What I have in my opinion discovered is that if you do not keep a tightly-controlled diary and document your discussions and tasks that it will not take long before you will be swamped by all of the things you have got to do to keep the business running on a daily basis.

It is this phenomenon that very often leads small business owners to surrender and fail in the first twelve months. Let me advise you this - the warning signs that this is beginning is when you say to your other half on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon that you are going down to the place of business to finish a bit of office work for a few hours. Once you get into this habit, you will by no means ever stop doing it and the business will eat you up really speedily.

I strongly advise all small business owners keep a calendar. My preference is to use Microsoft Outlook. Not only does it include a task calendar that you can consult day-after-day when you schedule your work. But you can also keep track of your appointments to make certain you do not miss anything. If you do this, then you will find over time you may perhaps get through this phase of being disorganized and start to thrive.

In addition you will notice how long it is taking to do the different tasks that make up your business. This will help a lot when you eventually get someone else to do those tasks for you.

Additionally, consider setting up a Mastermind Group. I read a book a little while ago called Think and Grow Rich by a man called Napoleon Hill. He talks with reference to the thirteen secrets to success to gain massive financial wealth. One of the things that I gained both from this volume as well as being a small business chief was that I required a Mastermind Group.

The Mastermind Group is a range of professional people who can support me accomplish in my objectives for my business. Literally anybody can be part of your Mastermind Group and some of these may be individuals such as a lawyer, an accountant in addition to others among your peers who could be of assistance to you in starting your business.

In addition, it could also comprise personalities who are not inside your business world which will give you a different perspective on thing and bring some balance to the group.

The Mastermind Group is in fact those people you turn to for advice and direction. You do not automatically have to take their advice nonetheless a very good Mastermind Group will allow you to discuss what is materializing in your business and what to do about it.

About the Author

Go here for information related to starting a new small business in australia. To search through all the pages of the website, visit the Starting A Small Business page

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Saturday, May 17, 2008

Small Business Coaching: Are You Ready To Become A Success Story?

Small business coaching is hot. A few years ago the only coaches anyone talked about were sports coaches. But today, PriceWaterhouseCoopers estimates that there are 30,000 business and life coaches worldwide.

Thousands of small business owners and managers turn to coaches every day to improve their personal skills and business results. You can, too. But first you have to determine if you're ready for coaching. Then you have to select the right coach.

Are you Ready?

Rosa started her business out of her home. She made money, but not as much as she felt she should. She was frustrated that she couldn't find time for her family. That 's when a friend suggested that a small business coach would help.

That 's a typical situation. Most small businesses owners don't start out using a coach. They usually come to coaching when they've had some success and when they know they could have more. They usually come to coaching when they're ready to listen and when they need a little knowledge and a little nudge to do the right things.

The best coaching in the world won't help you if you're not ready to be helped. So before you go hunting for a good small business coach, answer the following questions.

Are you ready to listen to the things you need to hear? A good coach will ask you about things you haven't thought of and push you to think outside the box. That 's often scary.

A good coach may also tell you to change the way you do some things. That 's hard for many small business owners because it means admitting that you've made some bad decisions and choices.

Are you ready to take a hard look at your business? Even the best coach can't help you if your business can't deliver quality to enough people at the right price. Sometimes a business simply can't succeed because the market is too small or too hard to reach.

Are you ready to pay the price? Coaching does not come without a price. You will pay a price in both money and time. You may even realize that you need to invest in new things for your business.

Coaching is not a magic bean. You have to work at success every day. I tell my clients that success is based on persistency and consistency, not magic."

You're ready for coaching if you see coaching as an investment in yourself and your success. Your next challenge is to find the right coach for you.

Choosing the Coach for You

Great coaches, like great chefs and great football players, are rare. And, sometimes, even a great coach is not the right coach for you. Here are some ways to evaluate coaches.

Look for a coach who 's run a small business. Before I started coaching I built two successful small businesses. I've really "been there and done that" so I know what my clients are going through.

I also use coaches myself. The ones that work best for me have small business experience. Small businesses are different from big businesses and you need a coach who understands the special challenges.

Look for a coach who 's been doing it for a while. My job as a coach is to help you know what to do, but it 's also to help you do what you know. It takes time to learn to coach well.

Look for a coach who won't nickel and dime you to death. It seems to me that there are two kinds of coaches when it comes to billing. There are coaches who charge you by the minute, hour or session. And there are coaches who are always accessible or available for short conversations between sessions, if needed without piling on extra charges. I find the latter works better for my clients.

Look for a coach that you're comfortable with. Successful outcomes demand a productive relationship between you and your coach. It won't work if you feel talked down to or belittled or if you feel like your coach doesn't care about you. If you feel any of those things, look for a different coach.

Look for a coach who 's picky. The best coaches are selective about the kind of clients they work with. We expect a lot of our clients and we limit the number of clients we work with so we can concentrate on helping each one succeed.

After some soul searching and some research Rosa started working with a small business coach. It wasn't always easy, but together they found ways to help Rosa 's business grow and help her reap the benefits of success. They took her business and life to a whole new level.

It can happen for you, too. If you're ready, if you're willing to embrace change and if you're willing to pay the price, a small business coach can help you become an amazing success story.

About the Author

David Mason is President of Mason Performance Development Inc., and author of Marketing Your Small Business for Big Profits. Visit Your Big Profits and sign-up for The Performance Development News, a weekly ezine with free marketing tips.

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Getting Loans for Small Business

Businesses need cash to operate. Whether yours is a new or an existing business, you rely on a healthy cash flow to keep your business performing the way it should. Unfortunately, the cash is not always flowing the way it should. For those times you will need to know where you can find loans for small business.

The economy has a big impact on the financial health of any business. Sales might be booming, and the money is pouring into your business, then the economy turns, and that income can dry up very quickly. No income means a reduced cash flow. Over time, that reduced cash flow could drain any cash reserves the business may have built up. When that happens, it is necessary to find another source of temporary cash to get your business through.

For established businesses with a good credit history, obtaining a loan for small business is not typically that difficult. Chances are you already have established a relationship with a bank, and that will make it easier to get your loan. If you do not already have a relationship with a bank, it may take a little more effort to get your loan, but if your business is established, and your credit is good, most bankers will be willing to work with you.

If your business has not been in existence for very long, or if you have run into financial difficulties in the past, it may be a bit more difficult to get one of the loans for small business that are available. Rather than going through conventional channels, you may have to speak to a lender that specializes in unsecured loans.

These lenders will usually base the loan on existing credit card transactions. When you apply for the loan you will be required to show credit card transaction records for the previous three to six months. Once the credit is approved you will repay the loan by turning over a percentage of your credit card sales to the lender until the full amount of the loan is repaid.

There are two types of loans that are typically available to small businesses: lump sum loans, and line of credit loans. Lump sum loans are just what the name implies. When the loan is approved the total amount of the loan is transferred into your account in a lump sum. Interest begins accruing on the entire amount of the loan once the transfer occurs.

The second option that is available is to establish a line of credit. With this option an account is established, similar to a checking account. An agreed upon amount of money will be available to your business, and you can withdraw the money from the account as needed. This is a great option for businesses that will have ongoing need for cash, but they may not know exactly how much will be needed. They can withdraw as much or as little as they need, and the remaining balance will still be available to them when they need more money. A big advantage of this option is that your business only pays interest on the amount that is outstanding, rather than the entire amount available.

Being able to obtain loans for small business is sometimes the difference between success and failure for small businesses. Keeping the cash flowing means keeping the doors open.

About the Author

David Castro often writes articles about Loans for Small Business and Small Business Loanshttp://www.cashprior.com. for Merchant Resources International - To Learn more Visit Us

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Marketing Your Small Business

Small business marketing may be the most important part in owning and maintaining a successful small business. A good portion of the marketing effort is determining the needs of your target market and then explaining that you provide solutions to meet those needs. Contrary to popular belief, it is a lot more than posting a sign or handing out flyers. Though many of the philosophies and tactics may be similar, small business marketing is an entirely different discipline than marketing of large companies. Successful marketing is not just a tactic or strategy; it is an entire process and you are sure to fail if you are not enthusiastic about your small business.

Done properly, marketing can and will attract all the clients your small business can handle. But I would suggest you get to a place where you work only with clients who value what you have to offer. If you commit to following simple small business marketing systems, strategies and ideas you can significantly increase what you charge for your services. Unfortunately though, most small business promotions focus only on how great their products and services are. But you need to stay focused on what products and services your ideal clients want and need.

Heres another big no-no to avoid. Instead of marketing only when you need money or cash flow, commit to marketing your products and services all of the time. It is very important to consistently market your products and services because as I have been saying for years, success is based on persistency and consistency, not magic.

Planning is also a key ingredient to the success of any small business. Developing a small business marketing plan will be one of the most crucial elements to your success. By creating your marketing plan you will eliminate the panic and need for an instant solution to financial problems because you can avoid many of the ups and downs that result from the all to common stop and start marketing. Your plan does not have to be set in stone, it can evolve as you and your business grow. The important thing is your dedication to consistency with your marketing.

The lack of persistency and consistency will lead to an unused marketing plan. This in turn will lead to spits and starts in your cash flow. Successful entrepreneurs who have a small business marketing plan make more money in less time. When you start to think of who your ideal client is and what products and services they want or need and then combine that with your marketing tools and techniques, an effective marketing plan is not far behind.

As you are probably starting to see small business marketing is an entire process, a synergy of the individual tactics and strategies. That 's right, small business marketing is a system where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Another common misconception is that small business marketing is just common sense. Nothing could be further from the truth. An understanding of how small business marketing is conducted is essential for you if success is your goal. You do want results and success dont you?

Its all about determining the needs of your target market and then providing solutions to meet those needs. So many people believe that marketing their small business is all about running advertisements, but it isnt. If you are serious about your success in business, then make understanding marketing an on-going priority.

The ultimate result of small business marketing is to attract more new customers and persuade existing customers to purchase your products or services in higher quantities and more frequently. The successful can attribute their success to having a strategic plan and following it consistently. When you create a marketing plan you will be able to compete at a higher level. Your odds of winning the game significantly improve when you take the time to create a plan.

To your success!

About the Author

David Mason is President of Mason Performance Development Inc., and author of Marketing Your Small Business for Big Profits. Visit Your Big Profits and sign-up for The Performance Development News, a weekly ezine with free marketing tips.

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Small Business Start Up Costs

Small business start up costs can prove to be frustrating and stressful for a beginner business owner. Several entrepreneurs are intimidated by small business start up costs and choose to avoid even trying their knowledge in a small business for fear of not achieving success. Because starting a small business involves many expenses, they often think that having such a business will just lead them to failure. Fortunately, there are various ways to finance start up cost for a business; the ones that can help you some of the mounting business costs.

A business plan is an important catalyst of any successful business. In the absence of business plan, you can not easily get an access to business startup loans offered by banks and investors. Letting them know about your business plan can give them confidence. If you have professional business plan, you are providing a blueprint for successful business because you are making a change for your own business to be showcased to potential business startup funding providers. However, in doing this, you must strive to design a business plan that is really convincing and that pictures your abilities to manage such business reflected in your plan.

A business plan, for the purpose of acquiring a loan for business start up costs, has numbers of components. The first few pages showcases the Executive Summary and the Table of Contents. This is followed by the company descriptions- one of the most essential portion of business plans because this explains the short history, the company backbone, as well as the future plans, to the potential investors. The company description sections also mirrors the plan for business possible expansion. In other words, in this section is where the loan providers are most interested to know.

In the company description, you will need to steer clear of discussing that your business is a startup business. Startup businesses are categorized risky investments by most investors. Instead, convey what you have poured to the industry that you are presently in or plan on entering. You can also discuss the things you did that made others become successful. Another is, you shall discuss the growth of your business in the recent months or years and your forecast growth. You have to be sure that during your business plan presentation, you must be in full enthusiasm and passion for your new business venture and so you will be able to acquire a loan for your business start up costs.

Marketing analysis, in a well-written business plan, must be included. This explains your feasibility/ demographic study regarding your potential clients- this can help to convince your potential investors for your start up costs for a business . This portion of your business plan also tells your potential investors on how you are going to promote your business to clients in your target market. This also must show how intense your marketing research to ensure that your product would hit a great demand.
In order to acquire a loan for your small business start up costs , comprehensive financial plan must also be included in your business plan.

Numbers of new and small businesses struggle with the enormous quantity of small business start up costs incurred in order to materialize their business plan. Many entrepreneurs design a professional business plan to help them offer potential investors with their roadmap that shall poise them for success in their new venture.

About the Author

Stephen C Campbell (MBA, MSc) is an Entrepreneur, International Business Consultant and has published more articles about business on niche marketing and market segmentation at

http://www.winningintheniche.com/

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Rule Of Four: What You Need To Know About Small Business Financing Credit Cards

Money is not everything. There are travelers' checks, money orders, and credit cards. When you start your own business, there 's a way for you to obtain much-needed capital, too. This way is called small business financing credit card.

Small business financing credit card, also known as small business starter credit cards, is a great way to keep your personal and business finances separate.

Personal Credit Card Versus Small Business Financing Credit Card
In the past and even at present, lots of entrepreneurs rely on their personal credit to get their business up and running. The problem with this is that they carry the debt from their business into their personal credit cards. Ultimately, they end up hurting their personal credit scores.

This is where small business financing credit cards come in. They offer higher credit limit. Additionally, they keep business and personal expense separate, thereby making it painless to track tax deductions. More importantly, you may write off your small business financing credit card 's finance charges and annual fees.

Why Get a Small Business Financing Credit Card

1. Build Credit
A small business financing credit card is a good way to build a financial history. Your business is a start-up; it 's unknown. This makes it difficult for your business to obtain loans. A small business financing credit card will remedy this. It will provide banks with the spending footprints they need to reassure themselves you're a responsible borrower.

2. Avoid Intermingling
When it comes to managing your expense, there 's one thing you should always do. Segregate, segregate, segregate. Do not mix business and personal transactions. This might later on create tax and money management problems.

3. Prevent Shoebox Accounting
It is always a nightmare to track business expenditures. With a small business financing credit card, however, you can turn the nightmare into one you can easily snap out of. Your credit card company will provide you with a year-end statement where you can find your transactions summarized, itemized, and categorized. With such a report available, there 's no need to keep a shoebox stacked with receipts.

4. Special Rewards
The credit card industry is so competitive providers fall over themselves to lure borrowers. Accordingly, a reward and discount program for small business credit card users was developed. Every time you use your small business financing credit card, you qualify for discounts and rewards, ranging from office supplies and plane tickets to phone services.

How to Manage Your Small Business Financing Credit Card Effectively
Credit cards, whether personal or corporate, will always be open to potential abuse. Effectively manage your small business financing credit card by:

1. Limiting card hopping
Sure, you qualify for multiple cards, but this does not mean you should sign up. You shouldn't. This will only tempt you to overspend. It will hurt your credit rating, too.

2. Steering clear of cash advances
Never use this credit card feature unless you need to bail yourself out of jail. It comes with whooping credit card fees and interest costs.

3. Avoiding late payments
The more delinquent your payments are, the higher the fees and interest rates you would be saddled with. Moreover, late payments hurt your credit reputation.

4. Using grace
Many companies offer a 21-day grace period to clients before asking them to pay for purchases. Turn this to your advantage by drawing up a schedule of your purchases and payments.

Use your small business financing credit card prudently. Remember, credit cards should be a financial safety net, not a trap.

About the Author

Planning to get small business financing credit cards? Visit CreditCardMonitor.org now and learn more about low interest fixed rate credit cards and credit card application online approval.

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Monday, May 12, 2008

Myths About Starting Your Own Small Business

Before you jump into small business entrepreneurship, consider first the following myths which we will debunk.

1. Starting a Small Business is Easier Work

This isn't true. You'll probably work harder. A small business needs more work to survive. However, the potential to earn is more. The difference is, at work you would balk at overtime. With your small business, you may actually enjoy working overtime because you are caring for your own business.

2. MYTH: I'll be the boss.
You may be the boss of your company. But you will still have to please someone else: the client. So in truth, they are the boss. Make sure you keep them happy and well served.

3. MYTH: I Can Now Ratchet Up My Asking Price

We often think that we work too much and are paid too little. When starting a small business we may be tempted to think that we can now push for a price more befitting our skills. However, we should remember that we have competition who might be offering their services for a pretty low amount. We always have to be competitive and practical. And exorbitant pricing may not help our small business any much.

4. MYTH: I Don't Have to Deal with People I Don't Like Anymore!

Unfortunately, no. You might find that the clients you now have may be pushier than your boss. And as we said in number 1, your clients are your boss. The goal here is for you to have more and more clients. So from here does it follow that the more the clients, the more the bosses, the more the headaches?

5. MYTH: I Own My Time!

Yes, you do own your time. Unfortunately you will find yourself using more and more of this time to tend to your business. So ultimately, no, you won't gain much in the time department.

6. MYTH: I can't work any harder. I can't do all this.

Do you know that they most managers give more jobs to busy employees because they seem to know how to balance and allocate their time? The key to working more is to work smarter, not harder.

This will take a lot of organization, but being able to accomplish much in less time will prove to be its own reward.

7. MYTH: Freedom at Last!

Free from what? And free to do what. Yes, you will have more leeway to do things when you want to. But this does not mean that you will be free to do nothing. Or be free to do something else than tend to your business when you have to.

8. MYTH: I'm in Charge. There'll be No Mismanagement from Me.

You may think that your boss was foolish not to listen to your suggestions regarding work. But unless you are on the hot seat, you will not appreciate how hard management really is.

9. MYTH: If I'm good, I'll be a success immediately.
The unfortunate reality of life is that sometimes, talent and hard work are not rewarded. However, if one is patient with his or her small business, the chance that that business will turn out to be a success increases. So always be practical in your expectations of success. Don't count your chicks when the eggs haven't hatched yet.

10. MYTH: I Can Motivate Myself

No man is an island, remember? In any business, your first line of security is your friends and family members. They will help you assess yourself and should be ready with a kind word or two to motivate you to start your own business. But aside from them you should be driven yourself. Without this drive you might not find the fortitude needed to weather the trials that beset starting businesses.

About the Author

Daegan Smith is the leader of the fastest growing team of successful home business enterpernuers on the net. Find out how we're creating financial freedom all across the globe and how to get in on the action FREE =>http://www.comlev.com

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Your Guide-Small Business Startup Kit

A small business startup kit can be a helpful medium if you need help for starting to establish your own business. With all the stressful and intimidating events that go along with beginning a new business, this business idea list can help you manage some of your anxiousness related to building a successful business career. This also provides you an important checklist of information that is needed to your particular business. And, will also help you for your important decision on where, how to start as well as the questions to ask yourself before implementing your new business endeavor. So, there is a need for you to have a well-designed small business startup kit , so to help you step back and look at your business to be sure it has the potential to acquire success.

If you like to get a great set of information regarding your chosen business that you want to begin operating, then, look for small business startup kit. You can find such thing that deals with just about any small business venture you can visualize of. Not few of these kits have contracts, agreement, and legal forms to help you to be able to fallow government and policies that have bounds to your chosen business. You can also, of course accumulate relevant and most accurate information about on how to handle business in your area.

Aside from that, you can find on several websites and companies that offer a start up business kit that is designed for the business that you need to start. For example, if you want assistance on starting a small business for cleaning houses, you can search information related to this in the internet that specifically developed for your needs. Really, there are several websites that gives essential ideas about starting your own and this includes how to market your products and/or services. Also, knowledge on how to train newly-hired employees, effective, dynamic and competitive management, and also offer you hint on how to handle your business brings it in the right tracks over others' business rapid-growth in this arena.

This kit will also give help for you get the permits and licenses you need in order to operate a business in your area. Commonly, legal contracts and forms are integrated in your small business startup kit so that you are able to operate your business legally once you set-up the proper paperwork. This also includes information regarding errors others have made and advices coming from people who have experienced the same business that you planned for operating. You can utilize their stories, testimonials, as a spring of inspiration and as a medium to avoid similar problems they had that may come along the way. There is also sections of this kit that is intended for American Tax Law so you can be guided by this over several implementing rules and regulation abounding the type of business you want to get in.

Another thing is, this small business kit is also packed with essential information regarding contracts and copyrights that you may need for your business.

If you want to have small business solutions, you can turn to this small business start up kit as an inexpensive alternative guide for your business.

You must always remember that starting your own business can be both confusing and frustrating. So, you are in need to be guided by guidelines that have scope for your chosen venture. Though, you can find several resources to help you in your new venture, always remember to consider this small business start up kit for it is an ideal product, and you will find a essential information to help you succeed. It will even offer you with low cost business ideas to help you stick within the bounds of your business budget. With this kit, you can be well on your track to having a successful and prosperous business.

Businessmen usually get overwhelmed by many things that they have to do to be able to operate a business of success. With a small business startup guides, you can get much of the information you need as well as some important materials for acquiring success in your business venture. You can also find ways to stay within your budget, which is in the lowest cost business ideas and techniques to help you save money on business expenses. A small business startup kit is a powerful tool for helping your business dream turn to reality.

About the Author

Stephen C Campbell (MBA, MSc) is an international internet marketer and as published more information on business, niche marketing and market segmentation at

http://www.winningintheniche.com/

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Small Business Opportunties In Franchising

Franchising is a great opportunity to take a tried business plan that has proven successful and run a business of your own on that model. Of course, there are rules that must be followed and fees that must be paid, but in the long run buying a franchise that has already established itself in the market can be a very lucrative business. However, buying a franchise can be very expensive, which limits the individuals who are actually able to afford buying a franchise in the first place. But, there are some small business opportunities in franchising that do not require huge investments. This opens the window of opportunity for many other individuals to get in on a franchise without a huge investment.

The following small business opportunities in franchising are just a sampling of what is available. Check them out and maybe you will find what you are looking for. Also keep in mind there are many other small business opportunities in franchising out there that might suit you better than the examples below. If so, start looking and you will find plenty more at FranchiseGator.com!

Taxback Franchise

This small business opportunity is all about tax recovery. Taxback offers seven different ways to make money by providing a free service, which is tempting for many. The startup costs are low from $8,995 - $12,495 and no specific amount of liquidity is required. Training and support are available with this opportunity.

At Work Personnel Services Franchise

The At Work Personnel Services franchise focuses on providing staffing and other necessary resources to businesses. No barriers are set by the franchiser which gives the franchisee much more control over the business. Capital investment is $59,500- $105,000 with liquidity being $50,000. Training and support are offered while financing is not.

Contours Express Fitness Franchise

The healthcare market is booming so any franchise relating to health has a great chance to be successful. A Contours Express franchise is just one business opportunity that takes advantage of the increased interest in health and benefits from it. The capital investment is from $55,720 - $95,420 and financing, support, and training are all available.

There are so many small business opportunities in franchising that anyone can find one that fits their situation with just a little research. When looking for a small business franchising opportunity it is important to take into account your skills and interests in combination with the capital investment you are willing to make, your liquidity, whether or not you will need financing and the amount of control you will be able to have over the business. Once you understand your capabilities and personal desires for running a franchise then you will be able to find one that suits you and your situation much easier. Dont delay trying to find the best small business franchise opportunity for you because you just might miss the perfect opportunity. Evaluate your personal situation, the market you are interested in, and the small business franchise opportunity that ties it all together. With just a little research you will find the best opportunity for you.

About the Author

Find franchises, franchise opportunities and information for entrepreneurs at Franchise Gator.

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Tackle Small Business Costs

Many first-time business owners are completely overwhelmed or unprepared by the amount of small business costs associated with operating a business. Small business costs often lead to the failure of many businesses, especially during the first year, or they even prevent them from getting started in the first place. Through a wide array of government and private programs, however, many small business owners have helpful options to help them finance their mounting small business costs.

A business plan is a required component of any successful business. Without a business plan, you are much less likely to obtain business startup loans from banks and investors. With a professional business plan, you have a documented, blueprint for success that you can show people who might potentially provide business startup funding for your business. To instill confidence in others, your business plan must sound convincing, realistic and demonstrate your abilities to start and operate a successful business venture.

A business plan for the sole purpose of receiving a small business startup loan must contain several components. The first few pages include the Executive Summary and the Table of Contents. After this is the company description. This is one of the most important sections of a business plan. Your company description will give potential investors a short history of your small business along with the future you are planning for it. It describes plans you might have to expand your business. For purposes of getting small business startup loans, this is one of the sections that loan providers and investors are most interested in.

In the company description, you will want to avoid mentioning that your business is a startup business. Startup businesses are considered very risky investments by most investors. As an alternative, outline details of what you have contributed to the industry that you are currently in or plan on entering. Without sounding arrogant, mention some details or things that you have changed or something you have done differently than others in your market that has proved to be successful. Also, discuss how your business has grown in recent months or years and don't be shy about your predicted growth. Your excitement and passion regarding your new business needs to be seen in the writing of your business plan to help increase your chances of getting a business startup loan.

One of the last parts of a well-written business plan, but certainly not the least important, is your marketing plan analysis. This is an explanation of your demographics using facts and figures and a study done about your new, potential customers and clients. This section also explains your advertising plans, especially your target market and how you intend to reach them. This section must show that you have done extensive research, appropriate with your market to ensure that your product or service has a large demand. In order to obtain small business startup loans, you will also need to include a sound financial plan, including pro-forma financial statements for your new business.

Many new and small businesses overlook the enormous amount of small business costs that will be incurred in order to operate. Many entrepreneurs create a professional business plan to help them provide potential investors with their roadmap for success in their new venture. Many banks and investors require a well-written business plan before they will even consider loaning the entrepreneur any business startup funding. With the help of loans and other business startup funding, small business owners can continue striving for success in their small business.

About the Author

For more information on small business ideas visit our Work At Home Blog

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Getting A Loan For Your Business

If you are looking to get started in the small business world, chances are you will need some outside start up capital. Few, if any, small business owners got their start up money out of their own pocket. Fortunately, there are a plethora of available avenues for you to secure some funds to get your small business off the ground. Of course, to get these loans you will have to show a business plan indicating you know what you are doing and have a good chance of turning a profit within a recognizable time frame.

Neither banks nor the small business association nor outside investors are looking to simply give their money away. They will want to see a verifiable return on their investment. Of course, no business is a sure thing but you will want to make it seem like yours is. If you have a smart business plan, some collateral to put up and a business degree, getting a loan should be possible. Here are some of the available outlets for procuring that all important capital.

First of all, if you are looking to buy into a franchise, you will want to look in a different area than you would if you were starting your business from scratch. There are franchise financing plans and these are often times provided by the franchise company itself. For instance, if you want to open up a McDonalds, you will want to research the company to see if they offer plans for paying off your franchise loan.

These plans are often cheaper, better and easier to procure than loans from an outside source. If the franchise company you are buying into has no such program, see if your local lending institutions offer special loan programs for those looking to start a
franchise. If franchising is not your thing, you will want to look at the available loans to start up small businesses. One of the first places you will want to look is the small business association or SBA.

This government program is specifically set up to help young entrepreneurs such as yourself. They offer several different categories of loan programs and you will want to look at each of them and see what meets your requirements. These programs do require a certain amount of collateral, though sometimes the small business itself can be counted toward this. The small business association does not actually provide the money itself but will rather recommend you to good lending institutions through which you can secure
financing.

Another good place to start for a small business loan is your local bank, meaning the one you do business with. Banks are more apt to offer loans to qualified customers with whom they already have an account in good standing. They will not have to do a lot of credit checking, as they already have most of your financial information at their fingertips. Often, the financing and interest rates through your own bank will be better than you can find at other institutions.

Finally, avail yourself of venture capitalists and angel investors. These people or foundations are in the business of investing. More than any of the other options, however they will be keenly interested in how your business can make them money. If you have a good business plan, seek out these investors for some capital to start your company.

About the Author

Obinna Heche. Los Angeles - Californi

Delivering the best home based business ideas and

opportunities so you can work at home successfully..
http://www.homeincomeportal.com/obhmy365/

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Tips For Small Business Costs

Many first-time business owners are completely overwhelmed or unprepared by the amount of small business costs associated with operating a business. Small business costs often lead to the failure of many businesses, especially during the first year, or they even prevent them from getting started in the first place. Through a wide array of government and private programs, however, many small business owners have helpful options to help them finance their mounting small business costs.

A business plan is a necessity for obtaining business startup loans and funding for your business. Without one, most banks and investors will not even consider providing you with business startup loans or other funding for your new business. But a business plan provides more than just the opportunity to receive funding. Properly done it is also a blueprint for you to map out your future success in a written plan that you can stick to.

A business plan for the sole purpose of receiving a small business startup loan must contain several components. The first few pages include the Executive Summary and the Table of Contents. After this is the company description. This is one of the most important sections of a business plan. Your company description will give potential investors a short history of your small business along with the future you are planning for it. It describes plans you might have to expand your business. For purposes of getting small business startup loans, this is one of the sections that loan providers and investors are most interested in.

In the company description, you will want to avoid mentioning that your business is a startup business. Startup businesses are considered very risky investments by most investors. As an alternative, outline details of what you have contributed to the industry that you are currently in or plan on entering. Without sounding arrogant, mention some details or things that you have changed or something you have done differently than others in your market that has proved to be successful. Also, discuss how your business has grown in recent months or years and don't be shy about your predicted growth. Your excitement and passion regarding your new business needs to be seen in the writing of your business plan to help increase your chances of getting a business startup loan.

One of the last parts of a well-written business plan, but certainly not the least important, is your marketing plan analysis. This is an explanation of your demographics using facts and figures and a study done about your new, potential customers and clients. This section also explains your advertising plans, especially your target market and how you intend to reach them. This section must show that you have done extensive research, appropriate with your market to ensure that your product or service has a large demand. In order to obtain small business startup loans, you will also need to include a sound financial plan, including pro-forma financial statements for your new business.

Small business costs can be a large concern for entrepreneurs and first-time business owners. Fortunately, small business owners have access to business startup loans as well as other forms of business startup funding to help them overcome their financial stress. A business plan is an ideal way to show investors that you are serious about your new venture and that you know how to make it a success. With a some extra financial help, most small businesses can pull through the tough times and remain a viable business.

About the Author

For more information on small business ideas visit our Work At Home Blog



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Friday, May 09, 2008

Small Business Credit Cards Problems

n todays economy, small businesses play an important role. These days, it is easier than it ever has been to start a new small business. There are all kinds of new businesses popping up all over the United States, from department stores to gas stations. With new businesses on the rise, the owners should be looking into small business credit cards - for numerous reasons.

The best reason to get a small business credit card is for separating your personal finances from any business related finances. Once you have a small business credit card, you can start making all of your purchases via Internet, phone, or in person. Business credit cards are accepted virtually everywhere, which is great for those who need equipment or supplies in a hurry.

If you own a small business, youve probably experimented with using your personal cash for company purposes. This can get ugly in a hurry, which is why you should invest in a credit card for your small business. You can make purchases without having to worry about cash, then pay it back later. You wont need to keep track of everything either - as you statement will be mailed to you at the end of the month, letting you know exactly how much you spent.

A small business credit card is also a great way to establish some credibility with your business as well. When you pay with your credit card, it looks a lot more professional than using cash to make your purchases.

It will gain the respect of financial companies, and help your business build some credit as well. After you have had a credit card in good standing for a few months, youll be able to apply for a small business loan and get the best rates - along with the higher amounts.

Even though your business may not have a 6 figure income or budget, small business credit cards can still help your business grow and prosper. Credit cards are always great to have, simply for the fact that you never know when you need money.

Your office equipment may crash and need replacing, or another emergency may come up. If you dont have a credit card for your business, the financing alone could shatter your daily operations.

Small business credit cards will also give you plenty of rewards as well. Most cards will give you cash aback and certain rewards on just about anything you purchase. From gas to equipment, you can get rewards simply for using your credit card. Guaranteed US Government Grant for USA Citizens at http://www.trustedreviews.info/money/usm/index.html

You can increase your profit margin as well, which is always a great thing. If you have other workers who are authorized to use your credit card, youll get more rewards - and much faster as well. This is also easier on your business, as your workers will be able to get what they need, when they need it.

All in all, small business credit cards are always great to have around. They will provide your business with rewards and convenience, eliminating the need to use cash with each purchase you make. These cards will also protect the future of your business, and allow it to grow. Get up to $200,000 to "move" your existing business. US Government Grants for USA Citizens. Claim your FREE $79 Gov Grant book!

If you own a small business, you shouldnt hesitate to look into these credit cards. Once you have found the best credit card for your company, you shouldnt hesitate to apply. Credit cards are always great to have around - even if your business is just getting started. Before you know it, your small business credit cards will more than pay for themselves.

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Get up to $200,000 to "move" your existing business. US Government Grants for USA Citizens. Claim your FREE $79 Gov Grant book!

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