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May 2012 Archive
Are you looking for financial and business management tips and advice to help get your business off the ground? If so, there is a new tool to add to your small business tool belt. Money Smart for Small Business is a brand new training for new and aspiring business owners that introduces you to the day-to-day operations, organization and planning of a business from a financial standpoint. Money Smart for Small Business, created with you – the entrepreneur – in mind, is an instructor-led financial education curriculum to help you...
by nicoj, Community Moderator on 05/31/2012 - 17:13
Are you looking for financial and business management tips and advice to help get your business off the ground? If so, there is a new tool to add to your small business tool belt. Money Smart for Small Business is a brand new training for new and aspiring business owners that introduces you to the day-to-day operations, organization and planning of a business from a financial standpoint. Money Smart for Small Business, created with you – the entrepreneur – in mind, is an instructor-led financial education curriculum to help you...
by nicoj, Community Moderator on 05/31/2012 - 17:13
Are you looking for financial and business management tips and advice to help get your business off the ground? If so, there is a new tool to add to your small business tool belt. Money Smart for Small Business is a brand new training for new and aspiring business owners that introduces you to the day-to-day operations, organization and planning of a business from a financial standpoint. Money Smart for Small Business, created with you – the entrepreneur – in mind, is an instructor-led financial education curriculum to help you...
by nicoj, Community Moderator on 05/31/2012 - 17:13
Are you looking for financial and business management tips and advice to help get your business off the ground? If so, there is a new tool to add to your small business tool belt. Money Smart for Small Business is a brand new training for new and aspiring business owners that introduces you to the day-to-day operations, organization and planning of a business from a financial standpoint. Money Smart for Small Business, created with you – the entrepreneur – in mind, is an instructor-led financial education curriculum to help you...
by nicoj, Community Moderator on 05/31/2012 - 17:13
Are you looking for financial and business management tips and advice to help get your business off the ground? If so, there is a new tool to add to your small business tool belt. Money Smart for Small Business is a brand new training for new and aspiring business owners that introduces you to the day-to-day operations, organization and planning of a business from a financial standpoint. Money Smart for Small Business, created with you – the entrepreneur – in mind, is an instructor-led financial education curriculum to help you...
by Tim Berry, Guest Blogger on 05/31/2012 - 10:21
What started as college kids on Facebook has grown up. At first it was updates and gossip and who’s a couple and who’s not. Then came Twitter and now Google+ and the reminder that LinkedIn, which started years earlier, was there too. Somebody named it social media. And now almost every business in the world is either participating, thinking about participating, or explaining to itself why not. And it’s time to relate that back to your basic business planning. So the question is actually three questions: 1. How does your...
by Tim Berry, Guest Blogger on 05/31/2012 - 10:21
What started as college kids on Facebook has grown up. At first it was updates and gossip and who’s a couple and who’s not. Then came Twitter and now Google+ and the reminder that LinkedIn, which started years earlier, was there too. Somebody named it social media. And now almost every business in the world is either participating, thinking about participating, or explaining to itself why not. And it’s time to relate that back to your basic business planning. So the question is actually three questions: 1. How does your...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 05/31/2012 - 06:47
Do you have a great e-newsletter program? Looking to build your list of email subscribers while you offer more valuable content to your Facebook fans? Facebook and other social media are great tools for building connections and community for your business and its customers. But Facebook isn’t always the best outlet for communicating your most important updates. Newsfeeds are busy places, and it can be hard to get the attention of fans as easily as a newsletter or email update can. But how can you convert your fans to email subscribers...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 05/31/2012 - 06:47
Do you have a great e-newsletter program? Looking to build your list of email subscribers while you offer more valuable content to your Facebook fans? Facebook and other social media are great tools for building connections and community for your business and its customers. But Facebook isn’t always the best outlet for communicating your most important updates. Newsfeeds are busy places, and it can be hard to get the attention of fans as easily as a newsletter or email update can. But how can you convert your fans to email subscribers...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 05/30/2012 - 06:38
Being the Chief Everything Officer is okay for some, but if you’ve got plans for growth or simply need an extra pair of hands, what are the best staffing options for your business? Taking on full-time employees can be a risk. What if your growth strategy doesn’t go as planned and you’re left with payroll and other employee expenses to cover? Should you hire independent contractors or outsource key functions? Here are some staffing options that you might want to consider, as well as some insights on the tax and legal...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 05/30/2012 - 06:38
Being the Chief Everything Officer is okay for some, but if you’ve got plans for growth or simply need an extra pair of hands, what are the best staffing options for your business? Taking on full-time employees can be a risk. What if your growth strategy doesn’t go as planned and you’re left with payroll and other employee expenses to cover? Should you hire independent contractors or outsource key functions? Here are some staffing options that you might want to consider, as well as some insights on the tax and legal...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 05/30/2012 - 06:38
Being the Chief Everything Officer is okay for some, but if you’ve got plans for growth or simply need an extra pair of hands, what are the best staffing options for your business? Taking on full-time employees can be a risk. What if your growth strategy doesn’t go as planned and you’re left with payroll and other employee expenses to cover? Should you hire independent contractors or outsource key functions? Here are some staffing options that you might want to consider, as well as some insights on the tax and legal...
by Stephen Morris, Community Moderator on 05/29/2012 - 11:31
When a friend or family member asks what you do to help small businesses, what do you say? I tell that them that SBA is the small and friendly federal agency that is tasked with this big mission: to help businesses start, grow and prosper. SBA does this through delivery of capital, contracting, and counseling assistance programs. If their eyes begin to gloss over, I then simply mention a well-known, local small business that received SBA assistance, and the light seems to suddenly go on for them! What’s your favorite thing...
by Stephen Morris, Community Moderator on 05/29/2012 - 11:31
When a friend or family member asks what you do to help small businesses, what do you say? I tell that them that SBA is the small and friendly federal agency that is tasked with this big mission: to help businesses start, grow and prosper. SBA does this through delivery of capital, contracting, and counseling assistance programs. If their eyes begin to gloss over, I then simply mention a well-known, local small business that received SBA assistance, and the light seems to suddenly go on for them! What’s your favorite thing...
by Stephen Morris, Community Moderator on 05/29/2012 - 11:40
Looking for capital to start or grow your business? Sometimes, even with a solid idea and business plan, finding third party financing can be a challenge for many small business owners. So where are startups and growing businesses finding the funds they need? According to a Kauffman Firm Survey, one-third of young firms do not use capital injections. Instead, they rely on owner investment or nonbank sources of funds, with the most frequently used source of startup dollars being owners’ and relatives’ savings (source). But...
by Stephen Morris, Community Moderator on 05/29/2012 - 11:40
Looking for capital to start or grow your business? Sometimes, even with a solid idea and business plan, finding third party financing can be a challenge for many small business owners. So where are startups and growing businesses finding the funds they need? According to a Kauffman Firm Survey, one-third of young firms do not use capital injections. Instead, they rely on owner investment or nonbank sources of funds, with the most frequently used source of startup dollars being owners’ and relatives’ savings (source). But...
by Stephen Morris, Community Moderator on 05/29/2012 - 11:40
Looking for capital to start or grow your business? Sometimes, even with a solid idea and business plan, finding third party financing can be a challenge for many small business owners. So where are startups and growing businesses finding the funds they need? According to a Kauffman Firm Survey, one-third of young firms do not use capital injections. Instead, they rely on owner investment or nonbank sources of funds, with the most frequently used source of startup dollars being owners’ and relatives’ savings (source). But...
by BusinessCredit, Guest Blogger on 05/26/2012 - 10:49
If you are in the military, a veteran, or military spouse and either own or are thinking about starting a business, consider joining a credit union for military entrepreneurs to service your company’s banking needs. Military credit unions offer tremendous benefits for small business owners and because they are member-owned, they always act in your best interest. The good news is this: once you are a member, you are always a member. You can leave the military, change employers, move, retire, and get married— and never have to leave...
by BusinessCredit, Guest Blogger on 05/26/2012 - 10:49
If you are in the military, a veteran, or military spouse and either own or are thinking about starting a business, consider joining a credit union for military entrepreneurs to service your company’s banking needs. Military credit unions offer tremendous benefits for small business owners and because they are member-owned, they always act in your best interest. The good news is this: once you are a member, you are always a member. You can leave the military, change employers, move, retire, and get married— and never have to leave...
by BusinessCredit, Guest Blogger on 05/26/2012 - 10:49
If you are in the military, a veteran, or military spouse and either own or are thinking about starting a business, consider joining a credit union for military entrepreneurs to service your company’s banking needs. Military credit unions offer tremendous benefits for small business owners and because they are member-owned, they always act in your best interest. The good news is this: once you are a member, you are always a member. You can leave the military, change employers, move, retire, and get married— and never have to leave...
by BusinessCredit, Guest Blogger on 05/26/2012 - 10:49
If you are in the military, a veteran, or military spouse and either own or are thinking about starting a business, consider joining a credit union for military entrepreneurs to service your company’s banking needs. Military credit unions offer tremendous benefits for small business owners and because they are member-owned, they always act in your best interest. The good news is this: once you are a member, you are always a member. You can leave the military, change employers, move, retire, and get married— and never have to leave...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 05/25/2012 - 14:07
Rhett Jeppson is the Associate Administrator for Veterans Business Development On Memorial Day, we pause to remember the brave men and women of our Armed Services who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country in war and conflict. What better way to honor their memory, than to support the many thousands who are serving in conflict, as well all of those who have returned home? At the U.S. Small Business Administration, this means helping to create an environment where our returning men and women can achieve the American dream....
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 05/25/2012 - 14:07
Rhett Jeppson is the Associate Administrator for Veterans Business Development On Memorial Day, we pause to remember the brave men and women of our Armed Services who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country in war and conflict. What better way to honor their memory, than to support the many thousands who are serving in conflict, as well all of those who have returned home? At the U.S. Small Business Administration, this means helping to create an environment where our returning men and women can achieve the American dream....
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 05/25/2012 - 14:07
Rhett Jeppson is the Associate Administrator for Veterans Business Development On Memorial Day, we pause to remember the brave men and women of our Armed Services who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country in war and conflict. What better way to honor their memory, than to support the many thousands who are serving in conflict, as well all of those who have returned home? At the U.S. Small Business Administration, this means helping to create an environment where our returning men and women can achieve the American dream....
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 05/25/2012 - 14:07
Rhett Jeppson is the Associate Administrator for Veterans Business Development On Memorial Day, we pause to remember the brave men and women of our Armed Services who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country in war and conflict. What better way to honor their memory, than to support the many thousands who are serving in conflict, as well all of those who have returned home? At the U.S. Small Business Administration, this means helping to create an environment where our returning men and women can achieve the American dream....
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 05/25/2012 - 14:07
Rhett Jeppson is the Associate Administrator for Veterans Business Development On Memorial Day, we pause to remember the brave men and women of our Armed Services who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country in war and conflict. What better way to honor their memory, than to support the many thousands who are serving in conflict, as well all of those who have returned home? At the U.S. Small Business Administration, this means helping to create an environment where our returning men and women can achieve the American dream....
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 05/25/2012 - 14:07
Rhett Jeppson is the Associate Administrator for Veterans Business Development On Memorial Day, we pause to remember the brave men and women of our Armed Services who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country in war and conflict. What better way to honor their memory, than to support the many thousands who are serving in conflict, as well all of those who have returned home? At the U.S. Small Business Administration, this means helping to create an environment where our returning men and women can achieve the American dream....
by Stephen Morris, Community Moderator on 05/24/2012 - 14:33
Editor's note: This blog article, by US Chief Technology Officer Todd Park, originally appeared on WhiteHouse.gov. The RFP-EZ project is sponsored by SBA and BusinessUSA. Today, we are very excited to be launching the new Presidential Innovation Fellows program. This new initiative will bring top innovators from outside government for focused “tours of duty” with our best federal innovators on game-changing projects. Combining the know-how of citizen change agents and government change agents in small, agile...
by Stephen Morris, Community Moderator on 05/24/2012 - 14:33
Editor's note: This blog article, by US Chief Technology Officer Todd Park, originally appeared on WhiteHouse.gov. The RFP-EZ project is sponsored by SBA and BusinessUSA. Today, we are very excited to be launching the new Presidential Innovation Fellows program. This new initiative will bring top innovators from outside government for focused “tours of duty” with our best federal innovators on game-changing projects. Combining the know-how of citizen change agents and government change agents in small, agile...
by Stephen Morris, Community Moderator on 05/24/2012 - 14:33
Editor's note: This blog article, by US Chief Technology Officer Todd Park, originally appeared on WhiteHouse.gov. The RFP-EZ project is sponsored by SBA and BusinessUSA. Today, we are very excited to be launching the new Presidential Innovation Fellows program. This new initiative will bring top innovators from outside government for focused “tours of duty” with our best federal innovators on game-changing projects. Combining the know-how of citizen change agents and government change agents in small, agile...
by Rieva, Guest Blogger on 05/24/2012 - 10:25
Does your small business sell a “green” product or service—one that benefits (or at least doesn’t hurt) the environment? Then you could benefit from Americans’ desire to go green when shopping. According to the 2012 Cone Green Gap Trend Tracker, 69 percent of American consumers always or sometimes take the environment into consideration when making choices about what products or services to buy. But not so fast. Before you launch a green marketing campaign, there are some key things you need to know to avoid major...
by Rieva, Guest Blogger on 05/24/2012 - 10:25
Does your small business sell a “green” product or service—one that benefits (or at least doesn’t hurt) the environment? Then you could benefit from Americans’ desire to go green when shopping. According to the 2012 Cone Green Gap Trend Tracker, 69 percent of American consumers always or sometimes take the environment into consideration when making choices about what products or services to buy. But not so fast. Before you launch a green marketing campaign, there are some key things you need to know to avoid major...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Administrator on 05/23/2012 - 20:46
At the U.S. Small Business Administration, we have the great privilege to work with many amazing small business owners. Every day I see how small businesses are creating an economy built to last and living the American Dream. I wanted to share these great stories with everyone – so we asked small business owners to share their stories in a short video that demonstrates how their business benefited from the SBA and makes a difference in their local community. The response to SBA's first video contest was...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Administrator on 05/23/2012 - 20:46
At the U.S. Small Business Administration, we have the great privilege to work with many amazing small business owners. Every day I see how small businesses are creating an economy built to last and living the American Dream. I wanted to share these great stories with everyone – so we asked small business owners to share their stories in a short video that demonstrates how their business benefited from the SBA and makes a difference in their local community. The response to SBA's first video contest was...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Administrator on 05/23/2012 - 20:46
At the U.S. Small Business Administration, we have the great privilege to work with many amazing small business owners. Every day I see how small businesses are creating an economy built to last and living the American Dream. I wanted to share these great stories with everyone – so we asked small business owners to share their stories in a short video that demonstrates how their business benefited from the SBA and makes a difference in their local community. The response to SBA's first video contest was...
by BarbaraWeltman, Guest Blogger on 05/23/2012 - 08:05
The entity choice for starting or operating a business can have a number of implications. It can affect funding, taxes, and more. Here are five compelling reasons why you may want to run your business as a C corporation. 1. Use crowdfunding to raise equity capital The Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act of 2012, which became law last month, allows the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to revise its rules to enable businesses to raise equity capital through crowdfunding. (Currently, crowdfunding is limited to seeking contributions...
by BarbaraWeltman, Guest Blogger on 05/23/2012 - 08:05
The entity choice for starting or operating a business can have a number of implications. It can affect funding, taxes, and more. Here are five compelling reasons why you may want to run your business as a C corporation. 1. Use crowdfunding to raise equity capital The Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act of 2012, which became law last month, allows the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to revise its rules to enable businesses to raise equity capital through crowdfunding. (Currently, crowdfunding is limited to seeking contributions...
by BarbaraWeltman, Guest Blogger on 05/23/2012 - 08:05
The entity choice for starting or operating a business can have a number of implications. It can affect funding, taxes, and more. Here are five compelling reasons why you may want to run your business as a C corporation. 1. Use crowdfunding to raise equity capital The Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act of 2012, which became law last month, allows the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to revise its rules to enable businesses to raise equity capital through crowdfunding. (Currently, crowdfunding is limited to seeking contributions...
by qstitt, Community Moderator on 10/23/2012 - 10:52
This week we’re blogging from National Small Business Week, a public-private partnership event to honor and empower America’s small business community. We just wrapped up the Phoenix Award banquet, honoring the selfless disaster recovery efforts of four individuals. Al Mignacci, a retired engineer, took the community under his wing after tornadoes hit the Stony Brook mobile home development in Raleigh, North Carolina. He volunteered his time and professional skills to rebuild mobile homes, coordinate other...
by qstitt, Community Moderator on 10/23/2012 - 10:52
This week we’re blogging from National Small Business Week, a public-private partnership event to honor and empower America’s small business community. We just wrapped up the Phoenix Award banquet, honoring the selfless disaster recovery efforts of four individuals. Al Mignacci, a retired engineer, took the community under his wing after tornadoes hit the Stony Brook mobile home development in Raleigh, North Carolina. He volunteered his time and professional skills to rebuild mobile homes, coordinate other...
by nicoj, Community Moderator on 05/22/2012 - 10:13
This week we’re live-blogging from National Small Business Week, a public-private partnership event to honor and empower America’s small business community. We just finished a morning session honoring federal contractors and subcontractors. In addition to remarks from Administrator Karen Mills, we heard from Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood and Secretary of Education Arne Duncan about their commitment to supporting small business procurement to achieve their agency goals. SBA recognized winners for a variety of procurement...
by nicoj, Community Moderator on 05/22/2012 - 10:13
This week we’re live-blogging from National Small Business Week, a public-private partnership event to honor and empower America’s small business community. We just finished a morning session honoring federal contractors and subcontractors. In addition to remarks from Administrator Karen Mills, we heard from Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood and Secretary of Education Arne Duncan about their commitment to supporting small business procurement to achieve their agency goals. SBA recognized winners for a variety of procurement...
by Stephen Morris, Community Moderator on 05/21/2012 - 14:52
This week we’re live-blogging from National Small Business Week, a public-private partnership event to honor and empower America’s small business community. We just announced this year’s National Small Business Person of the Year - Victoria Tifft, President and CEO of Clinical Research Management in Hinckley, Ohio. Congratulations on your award. What inspired you to start your business? I had an idea that I could provide a service where there was a need. No one else was doing it. It seems like a lot of entrepreneurs...
by Stephen Morris, Community Moderator on 05/21/2012 - 14:52
This week we’re live-blogging from National Small Business Week, a public-private partnership event to honor and empower America’s small business community. We just announced this year’s National Small Business Person of the Year - Victoria Tifft, President and CEO of Clinical Research Management in Hinckley, Ohio. Congratulations on your award. What inspired you to start your business? I had an idea that I could provide a service where there was a need. No one else was doing it. It seems like a lot of entrepreneurs...
by nicoj, Community Moderator on 05/21/2012 - 10:05
This week we’re live-blogging from National Small Business Week, a public-private partnership event to honor and empower America’s small business community. Today’s events kicked off with a breakfast honoring SBA’s resource partners and lenders, who provide education, training and capital to entrepreneurs and business owners in their communities. The event featured remarks from SBA Associate Administrator of Entrepreneurial Development Michael Chodos, SBA Administrator Karen Mills, and NASA Administrator...
by nicoj, Community Moderator on 05/21/2012 - 10:05
This week we’re live-blogging from National Small Business Week, a public-private partnership event to honor and empower America’s small business community. Today’s events kicked off with a breakfast honoring SBA’s resource partners and lenders, who provide education, training and capital to entrepreneurs and business owners in their communities. The event featured remarks from SBA Associate Administrator of Entrepreneurial Development Michael Chodos, SBA Administrator Karen Mills, and NASA Administrator...
by nicoj, Community Moderator on 05/21/2012 - 10:05
This week we’re live-blogging from National Small Business Week, a public-private partnership event to honor and empower America’s small business community. Today’s events kicked off with a breakfast honoring SBA’s resource partners and lenders, who provide education, training and capital to entrepreneurs and business owners in their communities. The event featured remarks from SBA Associate Administrator of Entrepreneurial Development Michael Chodos, SBA Administrator Karen Mills, and NASA Administrator...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Administrator on 05/19/2012 - 23:54
It’s that time of year again! Today, SBA joins the entire Obama Administration in wishing a very happy National Small Business Week to the more than 28 million American small businesses, their employees and the people they serve! National Small Business Week is a public-private partnership to honor small businesses from communities across America. Small businesses all over the country continue to thrive, driving the national recovery and creating an American economy built to last. Building on that momentum, President Obama and I...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Administrator on 05/19/2012 - 23:54
It’s that time of year again! Today, SBA joins the entire Obama Administration in wishing a very happy National Small Business Week to the more than 28 million American small businesses, their employees and the people they serve! National Small Business Week is a public-private partnership to honor small businesses from communities across America. Small businesses all over the country continue to thrive, driving the national recovery and creating an American economy built to last. Building on that momentum, President Obama and I...
by smallbiztrends, Guest Blogger on 05/17/2012 - 16:00
If you thought of Slideshare.net as just a place to load a few old presentations in the hopes someone may stumble upon them there, you’re missing out on some of the benefits of participating in SlideShare as a social network. Here are four reasons to add SlideShare to your social media outreach, especially if you are a consultant, business service provider such as a marketing firm or accounting firm, or any other small business that engages in content marketing: 1. Repurpose Your Content If you produce content as part of...
by smallbiztrends, Guest Blogger on 05/17/2012 - 16:00
If you thought of Slideshare.net as just a place to load a few old presentations in the hopes someone may stumble upon them there, you’re missing out on some of the benefits of participating in SlideShare as a social network. Here are four reasons to add SlideShare to your social media outreach, especially if you are a consultant, business service provider such as a marketing firm or accounting firm, or any other small business that engages in content marketing: 1. Repurpose Your Content If you produce content as part of...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/17/2012 - 10:12
Next week is National Small Business Week and for the 49th year, entrepreneurs, SBA and other members of the small business community will gather in Washington, D.C., for the highlight of the week – the National Small Business Week Conference. Aside from the awards and numerous networking opportunities presented by the event (running from May 20-22 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel), the conference also includes a schedule of educational seminars and forums offering a variety of learning opportunities across many topics for...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/17/2012 - 10:12
Next week is National Small Business Week and for the 49th year, entrepreneurs, SBA and other members of the small business community will gather in Washington, D.C., for the highlight of the week – the National Small Business Week Conference. Aside from the awards and numerous networking opportunities presented by the event (running from May 20-22 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel), the conference also includes a schedule of educational seminars and forums offering a variety of learning opportunities across many topics for...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/17/2012 - 10:12
Next week is National Small Business Week and for the 49th year, entrepreneurs, SBA and other members of the small business community will gather in Washington, D.C., for the highlight of the week – the National Small Business Week Conference. Aside from the awards and numerous networking opportunities presented by the event (running from May 20-22 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel), the conference also includes a schedule of educational seminars and forums offering a variety of learning opportunities across many topics for...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/17/2012 - 10:12
Next week is National Small Business Week and for the 49th year, entrepreneurs, SBA and other members of the small business community will gather in Washington, D.C., for the highlight of the week – the National Small Business Week Conference. Aside from the awards and numerous networking opportunities presented by the event (running from May 20-22 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel), the conference also includes a schedule of educational seminars and forums offering a variety of learning opportunities across many topics for...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/17/2012 - 10:12
Next week is National Small Business Week and for the 49th year, entrepreneurs, SBA and other members of the small business community will gather in Washington, D.C., for the highlight of the week – the National Small Business Week Conference. Aside from the awards and numerous networking opportunities presented by the event (running from May 20-22 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel), the conference also includes a schedule of educational seminars and forums offering a variety of learning opportunities across many topics for...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/17/2012 - 10:12
Next week is National Small Business Week and for the 49th year, entrepreneurs, SBA and other members of the small business community will gather in Washington, D.C., for the highlight of the week – the National Small Business Week Conference. Aside from the awards and numerous networking opportunities presented by the event (running from May 20-22 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel), the conference also includes a schedule of educational seminars and forums offering a variety of learning opportunities across many topics for...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 05/16/2012 - 09:30
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Programs have funded great companies like Qualcomm, Genzyme, and iRobot in their earliest days. These federal programs are what help our entrepreneurs grow, succeed and create jobs, and the Obama Administration has made its success a priority. The good news is, the program was reauthorized for six years by Congress and signed into law by President Obama at the end of 2011. Since then, the Small Business Administration has been...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 05/16/2012 - 09:30
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Programs have funded great companies like Qualcomm, Genzyme, and iRobot in their earliest days. These federal programs are what help our entrepreneurs grow, succeed and create jobs, and the Obama Administration has made its success a priority. The good news is, the program was reauthorized for six years by Congress and signed into law by President Obama at the end of 2011. Since then, the Small Business Administration has been...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 05/16/2012 - 09:30
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Programs have funded great companies like Qualcomm, Genzyme, and iRobot in their earliest days. These federal programs are what help our entrepreneurs grow, succeed and create jobs, and the Obama Administration has made its success a priority. The good news is, the program was reauthorized for six years by Congress and signed into law by President Obama at the end of 2011. Since then, the Small Business Administration has been...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/16/2012 - 06:57
Are you a veteran or service-disabled veteran? Interested in launching your own business? According to the latest SBA data, of the 27.1 million non-farm businesses in the U.S., 2.4 million are owned by veterans. Moreover, statistics show that the success rate of these veteran-owned businesses is higher than other startups – perhaps a reflection of the discipline, skills, and leadership experience acquired in military service. There are a number of resources and programs from a variety of government and non-profit associations that are...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/16/2012 - 06:57
Are you a veteran or service-disabled veteran? Interested in launching your own business? According to the latest SBA data, of the 27.1 million non-farm businesses in the U.S., 2.4 million are owned by veterans. Moreover, statistics show that the success rate of these veteran-owned businesses is higher than other startups – perhaps a reflection of the discipline, skills, and leadership experience acquired in military service. There are a number of resources and programs from a variety of government and non-profit associations that are...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/16/2012 - 06:57
Are you a veteran or service-disabled veteran? Interested in launching your own business? According to the latest SBA data, of the 27.1 million non-farm businesses in the U.S., 2.4 million are owned by veterans. Moreover, statistics show that the success rate of these veteran-owned businesses is higher than other startups – perhaps a reflection of the discipline, skills, and leadership experience acquired in military service. There are a number of resources and programs from a variety of government and non-profit associations that are...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/16/2012 - 06:57
Are you a veteran or service-disabled veteran? Interested in launching your own business? According to the latest SBA data, of the 27.1 million non-farm businesses in the U.S., 2.4 million are owned by veterans. Moreover, statistics show that the success rate of these veteran-owned businesses is higher than other startups – perhaps a reflection of the discipline, skills, and leadership experience acquired in military service. There are a number of resources and programs from a variety of government and non-profit associations that are...
by NinaSSmith, SBA Administrator on 05/30/2012 - 08:44
Exporting goods to South America just got easier for America’s small businesses. Today, the U.S. – Colombia Trade Agreement goes into effect, opening yet another fast-growing market to goods made in America. This exciting agreement marks a significant development in the Obama Administration’s efforts to expand access to American goods in emerging markets around the world. Colombia is home to the third largest economy in South America and this agreement builds on the significant potential for U.S. small businesses to...
by NinaSSmith, SBA Administrator on 05/30/2012 - 08:44
Exporting goods to South America just got easier for America’s small businesses. Today, the U.S. – Colombia Trade Agreement goes into effect, opening yet another fast-growing market to goods made in America. This exciting agreement marks a significant development in the Obama Administration’s efforts to expand access to American goods in emerging markets around the world. Colombia is home to the third largest economy in South America and this agreement builds on the significant potential for U.S. small businesses to...
by NinaSSmith, SBA Administrator on 05/30/2012 - 08:44
Exporting goods to South America just got easier for America’s small businesses. Today, the U.S. – Colombia Trade Agreement goes into effect, opening yet another fast-growing market to goods made in America. This exciting agreement marks a significant development in the Obama Administration’s efforts to expand access to American goods in emerging markets around the world. Colombia is home to the third largest economy in South America and this agreement builds on the significant potential for U.S. small businesses to...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Deputy Administrator on 05/15/2012 - 12:59
On Thursday, May 17, 2012, SBA and the White House Business Council are heading to Detroit, Michigan for the Urban Economic Forum- connecting entrepreneurs and small business owners with business tools and resources. Thursday’s forum will cover topics like SBA guaranteed loans, government contracting programs and business counseling services. The Detroit Urban Economic Forum is the seventh in a multi-city series with upcoming forums in Chicago, IL and Columbus, OH. Speakers for this forum include- Administration: Cecilia...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Deputy Administrator on 05/15/2012 - 12:59
On Thursday, May 17, 2012, SBA and the White House Business Council are heading to Detroit, Michigan for the Urban Economic Forum- connecting entrepreneurs and small business owners with business tools and resources. Thursday’s forum will cover topics like SBA guaranteed loans, government contracting programs and business counseling services. The Detroit Urban Economic Forum is the seventh in a multi-city series with upcoming forums in Chicago, IL and Columbus, OH. Speakers for this forum include- Administration: Cecilia...
by kmurray, Guest Blogger on 01/03/2013 - 15:48
If you’re a US military veteran interested in becoming the owner of a franchise, there are thousands of opportunities for you to explore. It’s easy to become a bit overwhelmed with all of the choices. But, it’s not like you have to try to figure everything out on your own. There are a variety of business resources that put all of their focus on you. Let’s look at some of them. Business Education If you’d like to learn the ins and outs of business, before you embark on your search for a franchise opportunity that...
by kmurray, Guest Blogger on 01/03/2013 - 15:48
If you’re a US military veteran interested in becoming the owner of a franchise, there are thousands of opportunities for you to explore. It’s easy to become a bit overwhelmed with all of the choices. But, it’s not like you have to try to figure everything out on your own. There are a variety of business resources that put all of their focus on you. Let’s look at some of them. Business Education If you’d like to learn the ins and outs of business, before you embark on your search for a franchise opportunity that...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/18/2012 - 15:35
Is the marketplace squeezing your margins? Do your customers have less disposable income to spend? Are market forces making it harder for you to stay profitable? Making money is a perennial challenge for small business owners, and simply increasing your prices or selling more products or services – often at compromised margins – isn’t always the answer. So, what sustainable strategies can you use to maintain and grow your margins? There’s no one-size-fits-all silver bullet, but here are some suggestions that might pay...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/18/2012 - 15:35
Is the marketplace squeezing your margins? Do your customers have less disposable income to spend? Are market forces making it harder for you to stay profitable? Making money is a perennial challenge for small business owners, and simply increasing your prices or selling more products or services – often at compromised margins – isn’t always the answer. So, what sustainable strategies can you use to maintain and grow your margins? There’s no one-size-fits-all silver bullet, but here are some suggestions that might pay...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/18/2012 - 15:35
Is the marketplace squeezing your margins? Do your customers have less disposable income to spend? Are market forces making it harder for you to stay profitable? Making money is a perennial challenge for small business owners, and simply increasing your prices or selling more products or services – often at compromised margins – isn’t always the answer. So, what sustainable strategies can you use to maintain and grow your margins? There’s no one-size-fits-all silver bullet, but here are some suggestions that might pay...
by kmurray, Community Moderator on 05/18/2012 - 15:35
Is the marketplace squeezing your margins? Do your customers have less disposable income to spend? Are market forces making it harder for you to stay profitable? Making money is a perennial challenge for small business owners, and simply increasing your prices or selling more products or services – often at compromised margins – isn’t always the answer. So, what sustainable strategies can you use to maintain and grow your margins? There’s no one-size-fits-all silver bullet, but here are some suggestions that might pay...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 06/15/2012 - 12:17
While growth in the travel and tourism business is still in recovery mode, the early warm temperatures across most of the U.S. coupled with an uptick in positivity over the future of the economy could make 2012 a good year for the U.S. tourist industry and the small businesses that support it. Today, Commerce Secretary John Bryson and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced the Administration’s National Tourism and Travel Strategy [PDF] – delivering on President Obama’s call in January for a national strategy to promote...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 06/15/2012 - 12:17
While growth in the travel and tourism business is still in recovery mode, the early warm temperatures across most of the U.S. coupled with an uptick in positivity over the future of the economy could make 2012 a good year for the U.S. tourist industry and the small businesses that support it. Today, Commerce Secretary John Bryson and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced the Administration’s National Tourism and Travel Strategy [PDF] – delivering on President Obama’s call in January for a national strategy to promote...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 06/15/2012 - 12:17
While growth in the travel and tourism business is still in recovery mode, the early warm temperatures across most of the U.S. coupled with an uptick in positivity over the future of the economy could make 2012 a good year for the U.S. tourist industry and the small businesses that support it. Today, Commerce Secretary John Bryson and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced the Administration’s National Tourism and Travel Strategy [PDF] – delivering on President Obama’s call in January for a national strategy to promote...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 06/15/2012 - 12:17
While growth in the travel and tourism business is still in recovery mode, the early warm temperatures across most of the U.S. coupled with an uptick in positivity over the future of the economy could make 2012 a good year for the U.S. tourist industry and the small businesses that support it. Today, Commerce Secretary John Bryson and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced the Administration’s National Tourism and Travel Strategy [PDF] – delivering on President Obama’s call in January for a national strategy to promote...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 05/09/2012 - 06:35
Looking to hire an intern this summer? More and more businesses are planning on it. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), employers plan on hiring 8.5 percent more college students in 2012 for summer internships than they did last year. Internship programs are a smart recruitment strategy for small businesses, allowing you to nurture and feed your full-time hiring efforts. A separate study by NACE found that nearly 90 percent of students who took part in internships said they would accept an offer of a full-...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 05/09/2012 - 06:35
Looking to hire an intern this summer? More and more businesses are planning on it. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), employers plan on hiring 8.5 percent more college students in 2012 for summer internships than they did last year. Internship programs are a smart recruitment strategy for small businesses, allowing you to nurture and feed your full-time hiring efforts. A separate study by NACE found that nearly 90 percent of students who took part in internships said they would accept an offer of a full-...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 05/09/2012 - 06:35
Looking to hire an intern this summer? More and more businesses are planning on it. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), employers plan on hiring 8.5 percent more college students in 2012 for summer internships than they did last year. Internship programs are a smart recruitment strategy for small businesses, allowing you to nurture and feed your full-time hiring efforts. A separate study by NACE found that nearly 90 percent of students who took part in internships said they would accept an offer of a full-...
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 05/07/2012 - 06:52
Alongside home ownership, early retirement is a long-held American dream. But in recent years, planning for retirement itself, let alone an early one, isn’t getting any easier. In 1991, half of all American workers planned to retire before they reached the age of 65. Today, that number has plunged to just 23 percent. And that’s not the only alarming statistic. A study conducted by Boston College’s Center for Retirement Research reported that American workers are $6.6 trillion short of what they need to retire comfortably....
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 05/07/2012 - 06:52
Alongside home ownership, early retirement is a long-held American dream. But in recent years, planning for retirement itself, let alone an early one, isn’t getting any easier. In 1991, half of all American workers planned to retire before they reached the age of 65. Today, that number has plunged to just 23 percent. And that’s not the only alarming statistic. A study conducted by Boston College’s Center for Retirement Research reported that American workers are $6.6 trillion short of what they need to retire comfortably....
by Caron_Beesley, Community Moderator on 05/07/2012 - 06:52
Alongside home ownership, early retirement is a long-held American dream. But in recent years, planning for retirement itself, let alone an early one, isn’t getting any easier. In 1991, half of all American workers planned to retire before they reached the age of 65. Today, that number has plunged to just 23 percent. And that’s not the only alarming statistic. A study conducted by Boston College’s Center for Retirement Research reported that American workers are $6.6 trillion short of what they need to retire comfortably....
Kansas City Urban Economic Forum: Learn about Resources to Help you Start & Grow Your Small Business
by ngoriel, SBA Deputy Administrator on 05/03/2012 - 18:50
This Tuesday, SBA and the White House Business Council will host the Urban Economic Forum in Kansas City, MO designed to connect urban entrepreneurs and business owners to local and national business resources and networks they need to start, grow and create jobs. The Kansas City Urban Economic Forum is the sixth of a multi-city series with upcoming forums in Chicago, Illinois, Columbus, Ohio, and Detroit, Michigan. Speakers for this forum include: · Marie Johns, Deputy...
Kansas City Urban Economic Forum: Learn about Resources to Help you Start & Grow Your Small Business
by ngoriel, SBA Deputy Administrator on 05/03/2012 - 18:50
This Tuesday, SBA and the White House Business Council will host the Urban Economic Forum in Kansas City, MO designed to connect urban entrepreneurs and business owners to local and national business resources and networks they need to start, grow and create jobs. The Kansas City Urban Economic Forum is the sixth of a multi-city series with upcoming forums in Chicago, Illinois, Columbus, Ohio, and Detroit, Michigan. Speakers for this forum include: · Marie Johns, Deputy...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 05/03/2012 - 15:28
On Tuesday, I had the honor of joining my colleagues at the Federal Reserve Board in Washington, D.C., for “Growing Economies in Indian Country: A National Summit,” a one-day event co-hosted by the Federal Reserve Board of Governors and the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. The Summit was the culmination of a 2011 interagency workshop initiative – “Growing Economies in Indian Country” – to produce a dialogue among tribal leaders, policymakers, financial industry professionals, universities and...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 05/03/2012 - 15:28
On Tuesday, I had the honor of joining my colleagues at the Federal Reserve Board in Washington, D.C., for “Growing Economies in Indian Country: A National Summit,” a one-day event co-hosted by the Federal Reserve Board of Governors and the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. The Summit was the culmination of a 2011 interagency workshop initiative – “Growing Economies in Indian Country” – to produce a dialogue among tribal leaders, policymakers, financial industry professionals, universities and...
by Stephen Morris, SBA Official on 05/03/2012 - 15:28
On Tuesday, I had the honor of joining my colleagues at the Federal Reserve Board in Washington, D.C., for “Growing Economies in Indian Country: A National Summit,” a one-day event co-hosted by the Federal Reserve Board of Governors and the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. The Summit was the culmination of a 2011 interagency workshop initiative – “Growing Economies in Indian Country” – to produce a dialogue among tribal leaders, policymakers, financial industry professionals, universities and...
by plester, Community Moderator on 01/09/2013 - 09:19
Social media, e-mail marketing, and search engine optimization are all important aspects of any businesses’ online marketing strategy. But what about more traditional marketing activities such as direct mail, trade shows, advertising and events? It may surprise you that many “old school” tactics still have an important role to play in any small business marketing plan and can have a big impact on perception and purchasing decisions. Here’s why they matter and what you can do to dust them off and bring them up to date....
by plester, Community Moderator on 01/09/2013 - 09:19
Social media, e-mail marketing, and search engine optimization are all important aspects of any businesses’ online marketing strategy. But what about more traditional marketing activities such as direct mail, trade shows, advertising and events? It may surprise you that many “old school” tactics still have an important role to play in any small business marketing plan and can have a big impact on perception and purchasing decisions. Here’s why they matter and what you can do to dust them off and bring them up to date....
by nicoj, Community Moderator on 05/02/2012 - 11:07
Can You Go to National Small Business Week and Get a Federal Contract? It Could Happen! If you were to ask a small business owner to identify a top priority on his or her wish list, undoubtedly they would say “to get more business!” Are you a small business owner looking for more business? Are you a small business owner looking to partner with larger businesses or federal agencies on federal contract opportunities? If your answer is “yes”, then you don’t want to miss the Business Matchmaking...
by nicoj, Community Moderator on 05/02/2012 - 11:07
Can You Go to National Small Business Week and Get a Federal Contract? It Could Happen! If you were to ask a small business owner to identify a top priority on his or her wish list, undoubtedly they would say “to get more business!” Are you a small business owner looking for more business? Are you a small business owner looking to partner with larger businesses or federal agencies on federal contract opportunities? If your answer is “yes”, then you don’t want to miss the Business Matchmaking...
by nicoj, Community Moderator on 05/02/2012 - 11:07
Can You Go to National Small Business Week and Get a Federal Contract? It Could Happen! If you were to ask a small business owner to identify a top priority on his or her wish list, undoubtedly they would say “to get more business!” Are you a small business owner looking for more business? Are you a small business owner looking to partner with larger businesses or federal agencies on federal contract opportunities? If your answer is “yes”, then you don’t want to miss the Business Matchmaking...
by mheffner, Community Moderator on 05/21/2012 - 17:46
Starting a business? Confused about the planning, legal and regulatory steps you should follow? Did you know that home-based businesses are required to hold permits to operate legally in most states? What about incorporation? Many new businesses assume they need to incorporate or become an LLC from the get-go – but the truth is, more than 70 percent of small businesses are owned by un-incorporated sole proprietors (although even this group is required to register their businesses). So, variables aside, there are still some fundamental...
by mheffner, Community Moderator on 05/21/2012 - 17:46
Starting a business? Confused about the planning, legal and regulatory steps you should follow? Did you know that home-based businesses are required to hold permits to operate legally in most states? What about incorporation? Many new businesses assume they need to incorporate or become an LLC from the get-go – but the truth is, more than 70 percent of small businesses are owned by un-incorporated sole proprietors (although even this group is required to register their businesses). So, variables aside, there are still some fundamental...
by mheffner, Community Moderator on 05/21/2012 - 17:46
Starting a business? Confused about the planning, legal and regulatory steps you should follow? Did you know that home-based businesses are required to hold permits to operate legally in most states? What about incorporation? Many new businesses assume they need to incorporate or become an LLC from the get-go – but the truth is, more than 70 percent of small businesses are owned by un-incorporated sole proprietors (although even this group is required to register their businesses). So, variables aside, there are still some fundamental...
by mheffner, Community Moderator on 05/21/2012 - 17:46
Starting a business? Confused about the planning, legal and regulatory steps you should follow? Did you know that home-based businesses are required to hold permits to operate legally in most states? What about incorporation? Many new businesses assume they need to incorporate or become an LLC from the get-go – but the truth is, more than 70 percent of small businesses are owned by un-incorporated sole proprietors (although even this group is required to register their businesses). So, variables aside, there are still some fundamental...
by mheffner, Community Moderator on 05/21/2012 - 17:46
Starting a business? Confused about the planning, legal and regulatory steps you should follow? Did you know that home-based businesses are required to hold permits to operate legally in most states? What about incorporation? Many new businesses assume they need to incorporate or become an LLC from the get-go – but the truth is, more than 70 percent of small businesses are owned by un-incorporated sole proprietors (although even this group is required to register their businesses). So, variables aside, there are still some fundamental...
by mheffner, Community Moderator on 05/21/2012 - 17:46
Starting a business? Confused about the planning, legal and regulatory steps you should follow? Did you know that home-based businesses are required to hold permits to operate legally in most states? What about incorporation? Many new businesses assume they need to incorporate or become an LLC from the get-go – but the truth is, more than 70 percent of small businesses are owned by un-incorporated sole proprietors (although even this group is required to register their businesses). So, variables aside, there are still some fundamental...
by mheffner, Community Moderator on 05/21/2012 - 17:46
Starting a business? Confused about the planning, legal and regulatory steps you should follow? Did you know that home-based businesses are required to hold permits to operate legally in most states? What about incorporation? Many new businesses assume they need to incorporate or become an LLC from the get-go – but the truth is, more than 70 percent of small businesses are owned by un-incorporated sole proprietors (although even this group is required to register their businesses). So, variables aside, there are still some fundamental...
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by nicoj, Community Moderator on 05/31/2012 - 17:13