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When times are hard and money is tight, I hear this often. The belt-tightening process seems to automatically result in ditching the creative. It’s ironic, because when anyone starts a new business, it surely springs from a creative inspiration. So, why is it that the very thing that inspired the whole thing is seen as expendable? Read More

Gadget patents can change the world, as everyone from Alexander Graham Bell to Steve Jobs has proved. Some of our favorite gadget-related patents, however, are for technologies and products that haven't changed much of anything--at least not yet. Here are ten intriguing examples, including ones from both famously inventive companies and lone geniuses. Read More

Renewable energy businesses have taken a unique approach to employee benefits consistent with their product. These companies are paying for employees' time away from work while volunteering for earth-friendly causes, granting free energy audits, handing out free compact flourecent bulbs and even giving them hybrid company cars. It's an inspiration to think outside the box when it comes to employe Read More

With an unexpected Republican U.S. Senate upset in Massachusetts, how will a probable revamping of the proposed health care reform bill affect small business. This column by Kent Hoover at Portfolio.com suggests a possible "Plan B" exists which would likely help small businesses and their employees afford better health care if Congress has the willingness to consider it. Read More

From About.com Small Business Canada, here is a comprehensive resource page with links to critical information, some more specific to Canada, but much of it worth considering no matter where you are thinking of buying a franchise. Topics include a self-examination to determine whether or not franchising is the proper fit for your business ambitions, a look at the advantages and disadvantages and Read More

Last week Erik Qualmann posted a list of All Star Social Media players in his ClickZ column. Being included in such a list with the likes of Chris Brogan and Read More

Apart from drafting a plan and resolutions to grow your business, you should realize that as an entrepreneur or business owner, you should be improving yourself continuously on different aspects of business. 21 small business owners and entrepreneurs have agreed to share how they plan to improve themselves in 2010 so that they can become a better leader and manager for their business. Read More

A key part of marketing is what you actually offer for sale to your customers. Taking a car as an example you always find a base model and you can get optional extras to suit your needs, budget and desires. Is there an opportunity for your business to actually charge for the optional extras that may be currently giving away for free them and grow your sales?


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Getting listed, and then rising to the top when people look online locally, is one way to create a significant strategic marketing advantage. Below are fives areas that you should address to increase your chances of winning in the local search game. (Do it now, before your competitors do) Read More

Before you spend one dime on a new venture, make a break-even analysis to determine whether your small business is likely to make money. Check out this article at Nolo.com to learn more about how a break-even analysis could save you money, time and effort when starting a new business. No one can be certain whether your company will make money or not, but with a break-even analysis you will get a Read More