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Start a Business

You want to start a business — but where do you actually begin? Right here, of course. Find business ideas, step-by-step how-to guides and explainers on everything from conceptualizing your new enterprise to getting all the pieces in place for opening day.

Latest: Advice, Tips and Resources

Article
Turn Your Genealogy Hobby Into a Side Business
By Chad Brooks | February 19, 2025

Have you ever considered starting a genealogy business? This guide will walk you through the steps of starting a home-based genealogy business.

Article
12 Things You Must Do Before Starting a Business
By Adam Uzialko | February 07, 2025

Find out what you must do before starting a business, from writing a business plan to getting the proper insurance.

Article
20 Businesses You Can Start on the Cheap
By Donna Fuscaldo | February 06, 2025

You don't need a ton of cash to launch a business. Opportunities abound to become a business owner with less than $500. See business ideas and pro tips.

Article
How to Get a License for Your Construction Company
By Sean Peek | January 21, 2025

Most states in the U.S. require contractors to have a license to work legally. Here’s how to successfully license your construction company.

Article
What Is a Pharmaceutical Wholesaler?
By Danielle Fallon-O’Leary | January 17, 2025

Pharmaceutical wholesalers purchase medications directly from manufacturers and then sell the medications to pharmacies.

Article
How Much Does It Cost to Start an Online Business?
By Zac Johnson | January 15, 2025

While expenses to begin an online business vary, here are some common costs you can expect to see with your new venture.

Article
How to Choose and Open a Business Checking Account
By Meredith Wood | January 13, 2025

Creating a new company banking account is important so you want to do your research. Here are three steps to opening your business checking account.

Article
How to Start a Clothing Store
By Shari Weiss | January 06, 2025

Our guide breaks down everything you need to know about starting an in-person or online clothing store, with expert advice from retailers.

Article
Starting an Advertising Agency
By Sean Peek | December 18, 2024

If you have a background in marketing and communications, an advertising agency could be a smart startup option. Here's what you need to know.

Article
The 8 Cheapest Franchises to Buy in 2025
By Sean Peek | December 16, 2024

Franchises are a good way to own and run a business without having to determine what to sell or how to market it. Learn about low-cost opportunities.

Article
The Road Map to Starting a Membership Site From Scratch
By Mark Thompson | December 04, 2024

A subscription site is easy to start and can offer big rewards. Follow these steps to build a loyal member base.

Article
4 Reasons Why Texas Is a Hot State for Starting a Business
By Sean Peek | November 20, 2024

The heat and the sun aren't the only reasons Texas is a hot state. Check out why Texas is a fantastic state to start a business.

Article
The Dropbox Effect: How to Utilize the Lean Startup Methodology
By Sean Peek | November 07, 2024

The lean startup technique is a three-step approach designed to help companies improve their decision-making in order to reach a broader market.

Article
Goodbye 9-to-5: How to Become a Full-Time Airbnb Entrepreneur
By Mark Fairlie | October 30, 2024

Find out exactly how thousands of Americans are replacing their traditional jobs and becoming full-time Airbnb hosts – so you can do it too. You'll take control of your life, earn more than you do...

Article
The 7 Biggest Challenges of Starting a Business (and How to Overcome Them)
By Jennifer Dublino | October 25, 2024

Starting a business is a difficult endeavor. Learn the biggest challenges that come with entrepreneurship and how to overcome them and find success.

Article
7 Ways to Build a Successful Construction Business
By Jennifer Dublino | October 22, 2024

Reputation is crucial to a construction business because the stakes are high. Learn how to build a successful construction company with the right tools.

marijuana leaves
Article
How to Successfully Launch a Legal Cannabis Business
By Mark Fairlie | October 07, 2024

Cannabis is a big business. Here is a startup guide for how you can enter this industry legally.

Article
The Art of Words: How to Write the Perfect Mission Statement
By Sean Peek | August 27, 2024

Your mission statement should show your company's vision and describe how customers see your business. Here's how to create a mission statement that distinguishes you from competitors.

Article
How to Start a Business With $0 (Or Pretty Close)
By Tom Drake | August 23, 2024

It is possible to go into business with limited startup capital. Here is how to become a successful entrepreneur, even without huge assets.

Business owner working on a laptop
Article
Starting a Business From Home: The Ultimate Checklist
By Julie Thompson | August 22, 2024

Starting a business requires an organized approach to administrative, legal and practical tasks. Follow this checklist to start a business from home.

Article
Funding Woes, Be Gone: 10 Ways to Minimize Your Startup Costs
By Jennifer Dublino | July 29, 2024

Minimize your costs by following these tips.

Article
Want to Invest in Digital Real Estate? How to Get Started
By Sean Peek | July 25, 2024

Everyone's familiar with real estate investment. It's as easy as buying a house or land to rent or sell for profit. Digital real estate works the same way.

Article
Welcome to the Big Leagues: At What Point Are You No Longer a Startup?
By Sean Peek | June 11, 2024

How do you know your business has passed the startup stage? Find out the key signs here.

Article
Welcome to America: What Nonresidents Need to Consider When Forming a Company in the US
By Sean Peek | May 15, 2024

Non-U.S. residents can form a business in the United States, but there are a few things they need to consider. Learn what with this guide.

tropical island
Article
3 Famous Restaurants and Bars That Weren’t Supposed to Be
By Ali Saleh | April 19, 2024

An unexpected origin story adds character.

Entrepreneur using a phone
Article
How to Stay Motivated to Start a Business
By Simone Johnson | April 10, 2024

What makes a good entrepreneur? Characteristics such as flexibility, control and motivation all help. Here is how to stay inspired when starting your business.

Article
3 Tips for Building an Investor-Ready Franchise Business
By Howard Goldstein | February 14, 2024

Being a franchisee has its perks over starting a brand-new business, but you still need capital. Here are three ways to appeal to investors.

People standing in line outside of a Cannabis Store
Article
More Lows Than Highs: Let’s Get Blunt About Starting a Cannabis Brand
By Daniel Thomas | January 03, 2024

Learn more about some key steps you must take in order to start a successful cannabis brand.

Article
7 Things to Consider Before Starting a Restaurant
By Max Freedman | December 19, 2023

Before you launch your restaurant business, learn about important considerations, such as location, marketing and software.

Article
Everything to Know About Business Checking Account Fees
By Donna Fuscaldo | November 01, 2023

Here's a look at the business checking account fees you could face and how to avoid them.