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August 2012 Archive
The SBA is working hard to make sure small business owners and entrepreneurs have the access to capital they need to start and grow their businesses. This resulted in a record lending year in 2011, where we supported $30 billion in loans to over 60,000 small businesses. And while we’ve made great progress, we know there is more work to be done. One area we are focused on is opening the doors of entrepreneurship to more communities and demographics. To make this possible, we’re focused on underrepresented communities and young...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Deputy Administrator on 08/31/2012 - 12:35
The SBA is working hard to make sure small business owners and entrepreneurs have the access to capital they need to start and grow their businesses. This resulted in a record lending year in 2011, where we supported $30 billion in loans to over 60,000 small businesses. And while we’ve made great progress, we know there is more work to be done. One area we are focused on is opening the doors of entrepreneurship to more communities and demographics. To make this possible, we’re focused on underrepresented communities and young...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Deputy Administrator on 08/31/2012 - 12:35
The SBA is working hard to make sure small business owners and entrepreneurs have the access to capital they need to start and grow their businesses. This resulted in a record lending year in 2011, where we supported $30 billion in loans to over 60,000 small businesses. And while we’ve made great progress, we know there is more work to be done. One area we are focused on is opening the doors of entrepreneurship to more communities and demographics. To make this possible, we’re focused on underrepresented communities and young...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Deputy Administrator on 08/31/2012 - 12:35
The SBA is working hard to make sure small business owners and entrepreneurs have the access to capital they need to start and grow their businesses. This resulted in a record lending year in 2011, where we supported $30 billion in loans to over 60,000 small businesses. And while we’ve made great progress, we know there is more work to be done. One area we are focused on is opening the doors of entrepreneurship to more communities and demographics. To make this possible, we’re focused on underrepresented communities and young...
by Carol Chastang, Community Moderator on 08/30/2012 - 15:39
If you run a small business, you understand the benefits of “business continuity” and the need to get a plan together to protect your company from being shut down by a disaster. As a business owner, you also depend on the well-being of your employees, clients, customers and neighbors to stay in business. So it makes good business sense to do what you can to help them prepare for any kind of disaster. The same basic preparedness tips that work for businesses – storing important records offsite, having...
by Carol Chastang, Community Moderator on 08/30/2012 - 15:39
If you run a small business, you understand the benefits of “business continuity” and the need to get a plan together to protect your company from being shut down by a disaster. As a business owner, you also depend on the well-being of your employees, clients, customers and neighbors to stay in business. So it makes good business sense to do what you can to help them prepare for any kind of disaster. The same basic preparedness tips that work for businesses – storing important records offsite, having...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/30/2012 - 07:02
Do you know where your company is headed? How do you know when it’s time to grow? How can you manage that growth so it doesn’t run away with you? In this five-minute video – Strategies for Growth – SBA, in partnership with Dell, talked to Carey Wilson of the Maryland Small Business and Technology Development Center. He offers the following five valuable tips for preparing your small business for growth. 1. When is it time to grow your business? You can only grow when business indicators show that you are ready for...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/30/2012 - 07:02
Do you know where your company is headed? How do you know when it’s time to grow? How can you manage that growth so it doesn’t run away with you? In this five-minute video – Strategies for Growth – SBA, in partnership with Dell, talked to Carey Wilson of the Maryland Small Business and Technology Development Center. He offers the following five valuable tips for preparing your small business for growth. 1. When is it time to grow your business? You can only grow when business indicators show that you are ready for...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/30/2012 - 07:02
Do you know where your company is headed? How do you know when it’s time to grow? How can you manage that growth so it doesn’t run away with you? In this five-minute video – Strategies for Growth – SBA, in partnership with Dell, talked to Carey Wilson of the Maryland Small Business and Technology Development Center. He offers the following five valuable tips for preparing your small business for growth. 1. When is it time to grow your business? You can only grow when business indicators show that you are ready for...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/30/2012 - 07:02
Do you know where your company is headed? How do you know when it’s time to grow? How can you manage that growth so it doesn’t run away with you? In this five-minute video – Strategies for Growth – SBA, in partnership with Dell, talked to Carey Wilson of the Maryland Small Business and Technology Development Center. He offers the following five valuable tips for preparing your small business for growth. 1. When is it time to grow your business? You can only grow when business indicators show that you are ready for...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/30/2012 - 07:02
Do you know where your company is headed? How do you know when it’s time to grow? How can you manage that growth so it doesn’t run away with you? In this five-minute video – Strategies for Growth – SBA, in partnership with Dell, talked to Carey Wilson of the Maryland Small Business and Technology Development Center. He offers the following five valuable tips for preparing your small business for growth. 1. When is it time to grow your business? You can only grow when business indicators show that you are ready for...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/29/2012 - 06:49
Do you sell products online or over the phone? Did you know the law requires you to honor any claims you make about your shipping policies and proactively notify customers about delays? Enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Mail or Telephone Order Merchandise Rule (also known as the “30-Day Rule” by direct marketers) was prompted by the massive increase in online shopping over the past decade and spells out the ground rules for making promises about shipments, notifying consumers about unexpected delays, and refunding...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/29/2012 - 06:49
Do you sell products online or over the phone? Did you know the law requires you to honor any claims you make about your shipping policies and proactively notify customers about delays? Enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Mail or Telephone Order Merchandise Rule (also known as the “30-Day Rule” by direct marketers) was prompted by the massive increase in online shopping over the past decade and spells out the ground rules for making promises about shipments, notifying consumers about unexpected delays, and refunding...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/29/2012 - 06:49
Do you sell products online or over the phone? Did you know the law requires you to honor any claims you make about your shipping policies and proactively notify customers about delays? Enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Mail or Telephone Order Merchandise Rule (also known as the “30-Day Rule” by direct marketers) was prompted by the massive increase in online shopping over the past decade and spells out the ground rules for making promises about shipments, notifying consumers about unexpected delays, and refunding...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/29/2012 - 06:49
Do you sell products online or over the phone? Did you know the law requires you to honor any claims you make about your shipping policies and proactively notify customers about delays? Enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Mail or Telephone Order Merchandise Rule (also known as the “30-Day Rule” by direct marketers) was prompted by the massive increase in online shopping over the past decade and spells out the ground rules for making promises about shipments, notifying consumers about unexpected delays, and refunding...
by AshleyC, Community Moderator on 08/27/2012 - 16:05
When a friend or family member asks what you do to help small businesses, what do you say? I try to give them the three Cs explaining that the SBA provides assistance to small businesses through Counseling, Capital and Contracts. Most people get it. What’s your favorite thing about what the SBA does for small businesses? My favorite thing is seeing how our programs affect small business owners. It never gets old when you walk into a business that received SBA assistance. It’s a wow factor when I see a thriving...
by AshleyC, Community Moderator on 08/27/2012 - 16:05
When a friend or family member asks what you do to help small businesses, what do you say? I try to give them the three Cs explaining that the SBA provides assistance to small businesses through Counseling, Capital and Contracts. Most people get it. What’s your favorite thing about what the SBA does for small businesses? My favorite thing is seeing how our programs affect small business owners. It never gets old when you walk into a business that received SBA assistance. It’s a wow factor when I see a thriving...
by ngoriel, SBA Administrator on 08/27/2012 - 11:31
I have the great privilege to meet with many amazing small business owners across the country. I get to hear their stories – stories about why they started a business, how their business improves their community, how business ownership has enriched their life, and often how SBA was an important resource to make it happen. These stories inspire me. That’s why we put together Small Business Owners Speak, a new online feature highlighting the voices of successful small business owners. This interactive map plots short videos...
by ngoriel, SBA Administrator on 08/27/2012 - 11:31
I have the great privilege to meet with many amazing small business owners across the country. I get to hear their stories – stories about why they started a business, how their business improves their community, how business ownership has enriched their life, and often how SBA was an important resource to make it happen. These stories inspire me. That’s why we put together Small Business Owners Speak, a new online feature highlighting the voices of successful small business owners. This interactive map plots short videos...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/27/2012 - 07:07
Thinking of buying a franchise? Do you understand the franchise business model and have you determined it’s a good fit for you? Perhaps you’ve also explored potential franchises and think you’ve found a match. But how are you going to finance your venture? What can you afford? How much financing should you seek? Should you even be doing this? To help you answer these questions, here are tips of the trade from franchising pro and fellow SBA.gov guest blogger, Joel Libava, a.k.a. The Franchise King®. Should you Be Doing...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/27/2012 - 07:07
Thinking of buying a franchise? Do you understand the franchise business model and have you determined it’s a good fit for you? Perhaps you’ve also explored potential franchises and think you’ve found a match. But how are you going to finance your venture? What can you afford? How much financing should you seek? Should you even be doing this? To help you answer these questions, here are tips of the trade from franchising pro and fellow SBA.gov guest blogger, Joel Libava, a.k.a. The Franchise King®. Should you Be Doing...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/27/2012 - 07:07
Thinking of buying a franchise? Do you understand the franchise business model and have you determined it’s a good fit for you? Perhaps you’ve also explored potential franchises and think you’ve found a match. But how are you going to finance your venture? What can you afford? How much financing should you seek? Should you even be doing this? To help you answer these questions, here are tips of the trade from franchising pro and fellow SBA.gov guest blogger, Joel Libava, a.k.a. The Franchise King®. Should you Be Doing...
by ngoriel, SBA Official on 08/23/2012 - 14:07
Today, SBA welcomed Adam Becker, Clay Johnson and Jed Wood as part of the Presidential Innovation Fellows program which pairs innovators from the private sector, non-profits, or academia with innovators in government to collaborate on game-changing solutions. SBA’s Presidential Innovation Fellows will specifically work on the RFP-EZ program, which will create a platform that makes it easier for innovative small businesses to sell to the federal government. This program also helps enable agencies to quickly source low-cost,...
by ngoriel, SBA Official on 08/23/2012 - 14:07
Today, SBA welcomed Adam Becker, Clay Johnson and Jed Wood as part of the Presidential Innovation Fellows program which pairs innovators from the private sector, non-profits, or academia with innovators in government to collaborate on game-changing solutions. SBA’s Presidential Innovation Fellows will specifically work on the RFP-EZ program, which will create a platform that makes it easier for innovative small businesses to sell to the federal government. This program also helps enable agencies to quickly source low-cost,...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/28/2012 - 07:13
Thinking of exporting your products or services? Want to expand your existing exporting business? The U.S. government can help. The SBA, for example, is making it a priority to help small business owners develop or expand their exporting activities through initiatives such as its Export Loan Programs and free online informational videos. What else does Uncle Sam offer? Well, did you know the U.S. government can help target and facilitate meetings with potential international partners and buyers? Or that it provides U.S....
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/28/2012 - 07:13
Thinking of exporting your products or services? Want to expand your existing exporting business? The U.S. government can help. The SBA, for example, is making it a priority to help small business owners develop or expand their exporting activities through initiatives such as its Export Loan Programs and free online informational videos. What else does Uncle Sam offer? Well, did you know the U.S. government can help target and facilitate meetings with potential international partners and buyers? Or that it provides U.S....
by kmurray, Guest Blogger on 08/22/2012 - 09:10
Online buzz about social media for business owners seems to be moving from “Should I” to “How do I?” I’ve been working on this a lot lately as part of my work on planning, and I’ve developed this process for a specific social media plan for small business: Start with strategy Define how your social media serves your business. Usually that’s in the marketing area of the business related to branding and awareness at the top of the marketing funnel, but it can also be focused on other business functions...
by kmurray, Guest Blogger on 08/22/2012 - 09:10
Online buzz about social media for business owners seems to be moving from “Should I” to “How do I?” I’ve been working on this a lot lately as part of my work on planning, and I’ve developed this process for a specific social media plan for small business: Start with strategy Define how your social media serves your business. Usually that’s in the marketing area of the business related to branding and awareness at the top of the marketing funnel, but it can also be focused on other business functions...
by kmurray, Guest Blogger on 08/22/2012 - 09:10
Online buzz about social media for business owners seems to be moving from “Should I” to “How do I?” I’ve been working on this a lot lately as part of my work on planning, and I’ve developed this process for a specific social media plan for small business: Start with strategy Define how your social media serves your business. Usually that’s in the marketing area of the business related to branding and awareness at the top of the marketing funnel, but it can also be focused on other business functions...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/22/2012 - 07:19
Ever wondered if you can legally re-use or reproduce copy or content created by someone else? Whether you’re writing a blog, creating copy for your website, or using an image in your marketing materials – here are some tips to help understand what the law allows: The Lowdown on Copyright Intellectual property law is an interesting area. For example, did you know that copyright is granted the moment a piece of work is written, recorded or created? Copyright, unlike trademarks or patents, does not typically need to be formally...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/22/2012 - 07:19
Ever wondered if you can legally re-use or reproduce copy or content created by someone else? Whether you’re writing a blog, creating copy for your website, or using an image in your marketing materials – here are some tips to help understand what the law allows: The Lowdown on Copyright Intellectual property law is an interesting area. For example, did you know that copyright is granted the moment a piece of work is written, recorded or created? Copyright, unlike trademarks or patents, does not typically need to be formally...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/22/2012 - 07:19
Ever wondered if you can legally re-use or reproduce copy or content created by someone else? Whether you’re writing a blog, creating copy for your website, or using an image in your marketing materials – here are some tips to help understand what the law allows: The Lowdown on Copyright Intellectual property law is an interesting area. For example, did you know that copyright is granted the moment a piece of work is written, recorded or created? Copyright, unlike trademarks or patents, does not typically need to be formally...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/22/2012 - 07:19
Ever wondered if you can legally re-use or reproduce copy or content created by someone else? Whether you’re writing a blog, creating copy for your website, or using an image in your marketing materials – here are some tips to help understand what the law allows: The Lowdown on Copyright Intellectual property law is an interesting area. For example, did you know that copyright is granted the moment a piece of work is written, recorded or created? Copyright, unlike trademarks or patents, does not typically need to be formally...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/25/2012 - 12:23
Credit cards are a common online payment option for small businesses, but what about other services like PayPal, Bill Me Later and Google Wallet? These now ubiquitous tools make it easier than ever for anyone – not just e-tailers – to buy and sell goods online and via mobile devices. However, as with all business tools, they have their pros and cons. Here’s what you need to know. What Are Online Payment Services? Online payment services allow businesses to receive payment from any customer with an existing PayPal, Bill Me...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/25/2012 - 12:23
Credit cards are a common online payment option for small businesses, but what about other services like PayPal, Bill Me Later and Google Wallet? These now ubiquitous tools make it easier than ever for anyone – not just e-tailers – to buy and sell goods online and via mobile devices. However, as with all business tools, they have their pros and cons. Here’s what you need to know. What Are Online Payment Services? Online payment services allow businesses to receive payment from any customer with an existing PayPal, Bill Me...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/25/2012 - 12:23
Credit cards are a common online payment option for small businesses, but what about other services like PayPal, Bill Me Later and Google Wallet? These now ubiquitous tools make it easier than ever for anyone – not just e-tailers – to buy and sell goods online and via mobile devices. However, as with all business tools, they have their pros and cons. Here’s what you need to know. What Are Online Payment Services? Online payment services allow businesses to receive payment from any customer with an existing PayPal, Bill Me...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/25/2012 - 12:23
Credit cards are a common online payment option for small businesses, but what about other services like PayPal, Bill Me Later and Google Wallet? These now ubiquitous tools make it easier than ever for anyone – not just e-tailers – to buy and sell goods online and via mobile devices. However, as with all business tools, they have their pros and cons. Here’s what you need to know. What Are Online Payment Services? Online payment services allow businesses to receive payment from any customer with an existing PayPal, Bill Me...
by ngoriel, SBA Deputy Administrator on 08/17/2012 - 13:28
The health and success of the construction industry is critical to our nation’s economy. SBA knows that we must do all we can to make sure this sector grows, compete for contracting opportunities and create jobs. That is why SBA is proud to announce our new “Quick App” for surety bonds. This new application process combines two applications into one to make it easier and faster for small businesses and contractors to compete for contracts. The new application allows the SBA to evaluate risk by asking the contractor to...
by ngoriel, SBA Deputy Administrator on 08/17/2012 - 13:28
The health and success of the construction industry is critical to our nation’s economy. SBA knows that we must do all we can to make sure this sector grows, compete for contracting opportunities and create jobs. That is why SBA is proud to announce our new “Quick App” for surety bonds. This new application process combines two applications into one to make it easier and faster for small businesses and contractors to compete for contracts. The new application allows the SBA to evaluate risk by asking the contractor to...
by ngoriel, SBA Deputy Administrator on 08/17/2012 - 13:28
The health and success of the construction industry is critical to our nation’s economy. SBA knows that we must do all we can to make sure this sector grows, compete for contracting opportunities and create jobs. That is why SBA is proud to announce our new “Quick App” for surety bonds. This new application process combines two applications into one to make it easier and faster for small businesses and contractors to compete for contracts. The new application allows the SBA to evaluate risk by asking the contractor to...
by BusinessCredit, Guest Blogger on 08/16/2012 - 14:20
Once you have completed all the steps necessary for your business to be lender compliant, you can begin establishing credit. You may have jumped ahead of yourself and already applied for one or two business credit cards using your personal credit. Not to worry-the purpose of this article is to share with you the best way to build credit for your company so you can stop relying on your personal credit to secure the financing for your company. During the early stages of the business credit building process, you probably heard about applying for...
by BusinessCredit, Guest Blogger on 08/16/2012 - 14:20
Once you have completed all the steps necessary for your business to be lender compliant, you can begin establishing credit. You may have jumped ahead of yourself and already applied for one or two business credit cards using your personal credit. Not to worry-the purpose of this article is to share with you the best way to build credit for your company so you can stop relying on your personal credit to secure the financing for your company. During the early stages of the business credit building process, you probably heard about applying for...
by BusinessCredit, Guest Blogger on 08/16/2012 - 14:20
Once you have completed all the steps necessary for your business to be lender compliant, you can begin establishing credit. You may have jumped ahead of yourself and already applied for one or two business credit cards using your personal credit. Not to worry-the purpose of this article is to share with you the best way to build credit for your company so you can stop relying on your personal credit to secure the financing for your company. During the early stages of the business credit building process, you probably heard about applying for...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/16/2012 - 07:20
If you have a business blog, then you are probably aware of the challenges of coming up with topic ideas, finding time to write, and – let’s face it – keeping that blog alive. This explains why blogs on the subject of blogging are ranked as the most popular articles here on the SBA.gov Community. Here are just a few: Thinking of Starting a Blog? Tips to Help You Start, Maintain & Grow a Small Business Blog! Never Run Out of Blog Topic Ideas: Here are 36 8 Tips for Keeping your Business Blog Current, Relevant and...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/16/2012 - 07:20
If you have a business blog, then you are probably aware of the challenges of coming up with topic ideas, finding time to write, and – let’s face it – keeping that blog alive. This explains why blogs on the subject of blogging are ranked as the most popular articles here on the SBA.gov Community. Here are just a few: Thinking of Starting a Blog? Tips to Help You Start, Maintain & Grow a Small Business Blog! Never Run Out of Blog Topic Ideas: Here are 36 8 Tips for Keeping your Business Blog Current, Relevant and...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/15/2012 - 17:51
Do you use or are you thinking of using email to connect with your prospects and customers? If so, then the payoffs can be fruitful. For every $1 spent on email marketing in 2011, the estimated return on investment was an astonishing $44.25 (source: Pingdom). But did you know that every email you send to your customers, whether it’s your monthly e-newsletter or a one-to-one email sent to promote your products or services, must comply with the law? Here’s what you need to know: The CAN-SPAM Act – What It Means to Your...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/15/2012 - 17:51
Do you use or are you thinking of using email to connect with your prospects and customers? If so, then the payoffs can be fruitful. For every $1 spent on email marketing in 2011, the estimated return on investment was an astonishing $44.25 (source: Pingdom). But did you know that every email you send to your customers, whether it’s your monthly e-newsletter or a one-to-one email sent to promote your products or services, must comply with the law? Here’s what you need to know: The CAN-SPAM Act – What It Means to Your...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/15/2012 - 17:51
Do you use or are you thinking of using email to connect with your prospects and customers? If so, then the payoffs can be fruitful. For every $1 spent on email marketing in 2011, the estimated return on investment was an astonishing $44.25 (source: Pingdom). But did you know that every email you send to your customers, whether it’s your monthly e-newsletter or a one-to-one email sent to promote your products or services, must comply with the law? Here’s what you need to know: The CAN-SPAM Act – What It Means to Your...
by Rieva, Guest Blogger on 08/14/2012 - 22:57
Is August a slow season for your small business? For many of us, business slows down as the days heat up. Fortunately, that makes the rest of this month the ideal time to use your downtime productively by reassessing your marketing strategy. Determine what’s working and what isn’t, and revamp your approach for the rest of the year. Here are some areas to consider: Has your target market changed? Maybe your customers are getting older, moving out of your area or spending less on what you sell. Is there a new target market you...
by Rieva, Guest Blogger on 08/14/2012 - 22:57
Is August a slow season for your small business? For many of us, business slows down as the days heat up. Fortunately, that makes the rest of this month the ideal time to use your downtime productively by reassessing your marketing strategy. Determine what’s working and what isn’t, and revamp your approach for the rest of the year. Here are some areas to consider: Has your target market changed? Maybe your customers are getting older, moving out of your area or spending less on what you sell. Is there a new target market you...
by Rieva, Guest Blogger on 08/14/2012 - 22:57
Is August a slow season for your small business? For many of us, business slows down as the days heat up. Fortunately, that makes the rest of this month the ideal time to use your downtime productively by reassessing your marketing strategy. Determine what’s working and what isn’t, and revamp your approach for the rest of the year. Here are some areas to consider: Has your target market changed? Maybe your customers are getting older, moving out of your area or spending less on what you sell. Is there a new target market you...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/13/2012 - 07:42
Looking to grow your business? Not sure you’ll qualify for a traditional business bank loan? Many new and established businesses may not qualify for credit in the form of traditional loans. That’s why the SBA has long operated a program of government-backed (or guaranteed) loans that make it possible for many small businesses to get the financing they need to grow their business without using working capital. What is a Government-Backed Business Loan? First, let’s dispel one myth – the government does not (generally)...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/13/2012 - 07:42
Looking to grow your business? Not sure you’ll qualify for a traditional business bank loan? Many new and established businesses may not qualify for credit in the form of traditional loans. That’s why the SBA has long operated a program of government-backed (or guaranteed) loans that make it possible for many small businesses to get the financing they need to grow their business without using working capital. What is a Government-Backed Business Loan? First, let’s dispel one myth – the government does not (generally)...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/11/2012 - 16:35
Selling to the federal government can seem daunting for many small business owners. However, the market is lucrative – approximately $100 billion in contracts are awarded annually to small businesses – and once you have your foot in the door, it can be a profitable, long-term revenue source. SBA has numerous resources and programs to help small businesses get established in this space, including the Government Contracting Guide and the Government Contracting Classroom. If you’re new to this market, you can also check out...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/11/2012 - 16:35
Selling to the federal government can seem daunting for many small business owners. However, the market is lucrative – approximately $100 billion in contracts are awarded annually to small businesses – and once you have your foot in the door, it can be a profitable, long-term revenue source. SBA has numerous resources and programs to help small businesses get established in this space, including the Government Contracting Guide and the Government Contracting Classroom. If you’re new to this market, you can also check out...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/11/2012 - 16:35
Selling to the federal government can seem daunting for many small business owners. However, the market is lucrative – approximately $100 billion in contracts are awarded annually to small businesses – and once you have your foot in the door, it can be a profitable, long-term revenue source. SBA has numerous resources and programs to help small businesses get established in this space, including the Government Contracting Guide and the Government Contracting Classroom. If you’re new to this market, you can also check out...
by BarbaraWeltman, Guest Blogger on 08/08/2012 - 10:25
The quotation I keep on my desk from Benjamin Franklin says, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” Savvy business owners know that learning is a lifetime affair. Fortunately, there are many federal income tax breaks to help defray the cost of your ongoing education. Lifetime learning credit If you continue to pursue formal education beyond the undergraduate level, you may be eligible to claim a tax credit for tuition, fees, and certain other qualified expenses. Each dollar of the tax credit reduces your tax bill by...
by BarbaraWeltman, Guest Blogger on 08/08/2012 - 10:25
The quotation I keep on my desk from Benjamin Franklin says, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” Savvy business owners know that learning is a lifetime affair. Fortunately, there are many federal income tax breaks to help defray the cost of your ongoing education. Lifetime learning credit If you continue to pursue formal education beyond the undergraduate level, you may be eligible to claim a tax credit for tuition, fees, and certain other qualified expenses. Each dollar of the tax credit reduces your tax bill by...
by BarbaraWeltman, Guest Blogger on 08/08/2012 - 10:25
The quotation I keep on my desk from Benjamin Franklin says, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” Savvy business owners know that learning is a lifetime affair. Fortunately, there are many federal income tax breaks to help defray the cost of your ongoing education. Lifetime learning credit If you continue to pursue formal education beyond the undergraduate level, you may be eligible to claim a tax credit for tuition, fees, and certain other qualified expenses. Each dollar of the tax credit reduces your tax bill by...
by BarbaraWeltman, Guest Blogger on 08/08/2012 - 10:25
The quotation I keep on my desk from Benjamin Franklin says, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” Savvy business owners know that learning is a lifetime affair. Fortunately, there are many federal income tax breaks to help defray the cost of your ongoing education. Lifetime learning credit If you continue to pursue formal education beyond the undergraduate level, you may be eligible to claim a tax credit for tuition, fees, and certain other qualified expenses. Each dollar of the tax credit reduces your tax bill by...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/08/2012 - 14:55
Do you have a plan for an accident or injury that occurs in your workplace? While the U.S. workplace has become a much safer place over the past century, accidents do happen. The latest data from the Department of Labor shows that nearly 3.1 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported in the private sector in 2010. This is the equivalent of 3.5 cases per 100 workers. Even more disturbing, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that 4,690 workers were killed on the job in 2010. "Every day in...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/08/2012 - 14:55
Do you have a plan for an accident or injury that occurs in your workplace? While the U.S. workplace has become a much safer place over the past century, accidents do happen. The latest data from the Department of Labor shows that nearly 3.1 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported in the private sector in 2010. This is the equivalent of 3.5 cases per 100 workers. Even more disturbing, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that 4,690 workers were killed on the job in 2010. "Every day in...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/08/2012 - 14:55
Do you have a plan for an accident or injury that occurs in your workplace? While the U.S. workplace has become a much safer place over the past century, accidents do happen. The latest data from the Department of Labor shows that nearly 3.1 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported in the private sector in 2010. This is the equivalent of 3.5 cases per 100 workers. Even more disturbing, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that 4,690 workers were killed on the job in 2010. "Every day in...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Administrator on 08/07/2012 - 16:49
Today, I attended a meeting of the White House Rural Council, which focused on our coordinated response to historic drought conditions that are affecting communities across Rural America. Our goal at the SBA and across the Administration is making sure that these hard hit communities have the tools and the resources they need to navigate and recover from these severe drought conditions. To date, the SBA has issued 71 agency drought declarations in 32 states covering more than 1,630 counties. These declarations allow small businesses,...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Administrator on 08/07/2012 - 16:49
Today, I attended a meeting of the White House Rural Council, which focused on our coordinated response to historic drought conditions that are affecting communities across Rural America. Our goal at the SBA and across the Administration is making sure that these hard hit communities have the tools and the resources they need to navigate and recover from these severe drought conditions. To date, the SBA has issued 71 agency drought declarations in 32 states covering more than 1,630 counties. These declarations allow small businesses,...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Administrator on 08/07/2012 - 16:49
Today, I attended a meeting of the White House Rural Council, which focused on our coordinated response to historic drought conditions that are affecting communities across Rural America. Our goal at the SBA and across the Administration is making sure that these hard hit communities have the tools and the resources they need to navigate and recover from these severe drought conditions. To date, the SBA has issued 71 agency drought declarations in 32 states covering more than 1,630 counties. These declarations allow small businesses,...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/06/2012 - 07:39
If you’re seeking financing for your business, you may have noticed promising signals in small business lending. Banks overall are reporting the biggest increase in lending to small businesses in four years. Month over month, the numbers are improving. Reuters reports that in May 2012, small business lending reached its highest level this year, up 18 percent over the previous year. (For more data read: Business Lending Showing New Signs of Strength). But who’s lending? If you’re shopping for a business loan, here are some...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/06/2012 - 07:39
If you’re seeking financing for your business, you may have noticed promising signals in small business lending. Banks overall are reporting the biggest increase in lending to small businesses in four years. Month over month, the numbers are improving. Reuters reports that in May 2012, small business lending reached its highest level this year, up 18 percent over the previous year. (For more data read: Business Lending Showing New Signs of Strength). But who’s lending? If you’re shopping for a business loan, here are some...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/06/2012 - 07:39
If you’re seeking financing for your business, you may have noticed promising signals in small business lending. Banks overall are reporting the biggest increase in lending to small businesses in four years. Month over month, the numbers are improving. Reuters reports that in May 2012, small business lending reached its highest level this year, up 18 percent over the previous year. (For more data read: Business Lending Showing New Signs of Strength). But who’s lending? If you’re shopping for a business loan, here are some...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/01/2012 - 19:06
One of the more perplexing questions small business owners ask is, “Why did I lose that deal?” or even more worrying, “Why do I keep losing deals?” Whether you sell to other businesses or directly to consumers, you’re not going to win them all. But there are always going to be times when a sale that looks like a sure thing goes cold – for no apparent reason. If these times worry you and you’re looking for a better win rate, here are five things you can do about it. 1. Be First and Be Prepared to...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/01/2012 - 19:06
One of the more perplexing questions small business owners ask is, “Why did I lose that deal?” or even more worrying, “Why do I keep losing deals?” Whether you sell to other businesses or directly to consumers, you’re not going to win them all. But there are always going to be times when a sale that looks like a sure thing goes cold – for no apparent reason. If these times worry you and you’re looking for a better win rate, here are five things you can do about it. 1. Be First and Be Prepared to...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/01/2012 - 19:06
One of the more perplexing questions small business owners ask is, “Why did I lose that deal?” or even more worrying, “Why do I keep losing deals?” Whether you sell to other businesses or directly to consumers, you’re not going to win them all. But there are always going to be times when a sale that looks like a sure thing goes cold – for no apparent reason. If these times worry you and you’re looking for a better win rate, here are five things you can do about it. 1. Be First and Be Prepared to...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 08/01/2012 - 09:55
Remember when Congress voted to reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) programs and the President signed the bill into law back in December, 2011? Implementing laws however, and doing it right, often takes just a little more time. The programs are important to small businesses, each year providing more than $2 billion of R&D funding to innovative small business across a broad range of technologies. After a long series of temporary reauthorizations, this reauthorization...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 08/01/2012 - 09:55
Remember when Congress voted to reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) programs and the President signed the bill into law back in December, 2011? Implementing laws however, and doing it right, often takes just a little more time. The programs are important to small businesses, each year providing more than $2 billion of R&D funding to innovative small business across a broad range of technologies. After a long series of temporary reauthorizations, this reauthorization...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 08/01/2012 - 09:55
Remember when Congress voted to reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) programs and the President signed the bill into law back in December, 2011? Implementing laws however, and doing it right, often takes just a little more time. The programs are important to small businesses, each year providing more than $2 billion of R&D funding to innovative small business across a broad range of technologies. After a long series of temporary reauthorizations, this reauthorization...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/01/2012 - 07:34
Own a small business? Perhaps you’ve heard about small business certification, but do you actually need to certify your business as small? For most small businesses, the answer is no. But if you want to take advantage of business opportunities such as selling to the government (a.k.a. “government contracting”), then you have to obtain some form of certification. Why? The federal government sets aside a variety of contracts for competition among small businesses, women-owned small businesses, service-disabled veteran-owned...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/01/2012 - 07:34
Own a small business? Perhaps you’ve heard about small business certification, but do you actually need to certify your business as small? For most small businesses, the answer is no. But if you want to take advantage of business opportunities such as selling to the government (a.k.a. “government contracting”), then you have to obtain some form of certification. Why? The federal government sets aside a variety of contracts for competition among small businesses, women-owned small businesses, service-disabled veteran-owned...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/01/2012 - 07:34
Own a small business? Perhaps you’ve heard about small business certification, but do you actually need to certify your business as small? For most small businesses, the answer is no. But if you want to take advantage of business opportunities such as selling to the government (a.k.a. “government contracting”), then you have to obtain some form of certification. Why? The federal government sets aside a variety of contracts for competition among small businesses, women-owned small businesses, service-disabled veteran-owned...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 08/01/2012 - 07:34
Own a small business? Perhaps you’ve heard about small business certification, but do you actually need to certify your business as small? For most small businesses, the answer is no. But if you want to take advantage of business opportunities such as selling to the government (a.k.a. “government contracting”), then you have to obtain some form of certification. Why? The federal government sets aside a variety of contracts for competition among small businesses, women-owned small businesses, service-disabled veteran-owned...
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by Stephen Morris, SBA Deputy Administrator on 08/31/2012 - 12:35