Small Business Center

    SPECIAL COVERAGE

    Small Business Q & A

    • Q&A
      Q:

      Are there stimulus plans aimed at small biz?

      A:

      There are some new guarantees and fee reductions on SBA loans, designed to help small businesses get access to credit.

      October 20, 2009 at 11:10 PM EST

    • Q&A
      Q:

      How can I prepare for a possible H1N1 Outbreak?

      A:

      Make a written plan, according to Homeland Security. For tips, a how-to guide is available online at the SBA's Web site.

      October 20, 2009 at 11:10 PM EST

    • Q&A
      Q:

      What should I avoid asking in job interviews?

      A:

      Don't ask personal questions such as age, race, religion or marital status. Also, don't ask about things like disabilities.

      October 20, 2009 at 11:10 PM EST

    • Q&A
      Q:

      What research should I do before starting a business?

      A:

      Look into whether there's a market for the business, whether the market is saturated and whether the idea is profitable.

      October 20, 2009 at 11:10 PM EST

    • Q&A
      Q:

      How can I find out when tax filings are due to the IRS?

      A:

      The IRS has a small business tax calendar you can check online, which goes month by month.

      October 20, 2009 at 11:10 PM EST

    • Q&A
      Q:

      How can I create a succession plan for my business?

      A:

      Talk to an attorney and other experts, and gradually teach others how to run the business's operations.

      October 20, 2009 at 11:10 PM EST

    • Q&A
      Q:

      Are there any programs for small businesses in poorer areas?

      A:

      The SBA's HUBZone Empowerment Contracting Program gives contracting preference to some small businesses in "underutilized" areas.

      October 20, 2009 at 11:10 PM EST

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    Video

    TIPS AND HOW-TOS

    Small Business Discussions

    • Q Do you think you need to find a niche in the market to start a business?

      A I think if you have a niche that is great, but I had to find my niche. Opening up a carbon-copy cupcake business is not what I wanted to do. I went out and literally catered to the customer and found out what they really wanted and that became my niche. Now I am in the baking business with a menu that caters to my clients and also in the wedding and custom cake making business I never thought I’d get into.

      -Tawny Ong, Founder of Desserts by Tawny Ong

    No Niche? No Problem!

    October 14, 2009

    October 14, 2009Wed, 14 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT11:10 PM EST

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