Wednesday March 23, 2011
smSmallBiz.com - SmartMoney's Small Business Site
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From WSJ.com/Small-Business
U.S. Falls Short in Awarding Small-Business Contracts
By Emily Maltby
A record number of federal dollars went to small businesses in 2009, but some agencies still missed targets.
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From Entrepreneur.com
Credit Unions to the Rescue?
By Gwen Moran
Find out how this old-school alternative to traditional banks could be the answer to your credit-crunch blues.
capital
From WSJ.com/Small-Business
'Super Angels' Fly In to Aid Start-Ups
By Pui-Wing Tam And Spencer E. Ante
A growing breed of start-up investors dubbed ''super angels'' is rapidly raising new money—and ratcheting up competition with established venture capitalists.
Should You Tap Your 401(k) to Start Your Business?
Thousands of Americans are using retirement savings to start new businesses. Is the gamble worth it?
Investors Look to Fund Capital-Light Businesses
Low startup costs and cheap customer acquisition make web-based startups an attractive investment.
The Voices of Venture Capital
4 leading venture capitalists offer their takes on the ups and downs of VC investment, what captures their attention and the best ways to seek out VC money.
Microloans Helps Some Small Businesses Survive
More cash-strapped entrepreneurs are seeking microloans, short-term loans of up to $35,000.
J.P. Morgan Offers Small Businesses Rate Cuts If They Hire
Chase will lower the interest rate charged on a small-business line of credit by 0.5% for every new hire they make.
Fundraising From Friends and Family
With bank lending still in the dumpster, entrepreneurs are turning to a capital source they know well...very well.
Cash for Chocolate? Creative Ways to Raise Funds
Instead of going to a bank or tapping your family and friends, consider these alternative financing options.
VCs Stretched on Many Boards
Entrepreneurs looking for sage advice from their investors say they're encountering a problem: Some venture capitalists are juggling too many companies.
The Credit Crunch That Won’t Go Away
Forget the improving economy. Entrepreneurs still find it hard to get loans. Here's why we're in this mess—and how we may get out of it.
The Art (and Journey) of Raising Funds
Start-up entrepreneurs often think they've struck gold when landing a first investor. But often, the fund-raising process has only just begun.
How to Successfully Land VC Funding
Here’s why a great business idea is only the beginning.
The End of Small Business Credit-Card Reform?
A new study offers little hope for small business credit-card reform.
IDAs Offer Small Boost To Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Individual development accounts, which can help low-income individuals save money to start a business, have grown in popularity.
Finding Funds In Public Coffers
Business-development firms are making loans when many banks won't.
Obama Pushes Small-Business Plan
Obama urged Congress to pass legislation that would create a $30 billion fund to incite banks to extend credit to small businesses.
China Currency Impacts Entrepreneurs
Small firms that depend on China for manufacturing, cheaper raw materials and inexpensive labor are bracing for China's potential currency revaluation.
New Credit Initiative to Boost Lending
The U.S. Treasury Department is unveiling a policy that could spur $20 billion in loans to small businesses.
How to Find Your First Investors
Even experienced entrepreneurs have difficulty raising money from venture capitalists. Find out who's far more likely to fund your start-up and why.
Bailout Missed Main Street
Government funding to U.S. banks has done little to ease the credit crunch for small businesses -- and the situation doesn't seem to be improving.
Relief for Small Businesses That Accept Plastic?
The Senate has voted to cap card fees, but banks could start charging for other services.
Three Best Ways to Court a Community Bank
Fed up with big-bank practices, many small businesses are ''going local.'' Here's how to build a relationship with your community lender.
Finance Your Franchise With Retirement Funds
If you're having trouble getting franchise financing from the traditional sources, consider this alternative.
Citi Plans Fund for Lower-Income Areas
Citigroup will launch a national $200 million fund for small-business lending in low- and moderate-income communities.
Entrepreneurs Succeed With Specialty Lenders
Business owners who use specialty lenders have an edge: The loan officer knows the revenue potential, financing and cash-flow needs of that industry.
In a Cash Emergency, Are You Prepared?
Planning -- not panicking -- is key to crafting a long-term business strategy.
Real-Estate Bust Hurts Lending for Little Guys
Since the mortgage meltdown, business owners can no longer reliably count on homes or commercial properties to secure financing.
Loan Seekers Left in the Lurch
The government's repeated short-term renewals of a popular small-business lending program is causing some business owners to fall through the cracks.
Small Businesses Get CARD Access
Some credit-card issuers are extending CARD benefits to small businesses. Is that good or bad for owners?
Start-Ups Chase Cash as Funds Trickle Back
Starting a new business is easier than it was a year ago, but wealthy investors, venture-capital firms and banks are still trickling out money very selectively.
The Debate Over Direct Lending Heats Up
Attracting loans remains a huge source of frustration for small firms, but the administration doesn’t think issuing direct loans is the answer. Here’s why.
Commercial Real Estate Bust? Not for Everyone
Stay on the right side of the ledger; leave your equity alone.
Where to Get a Small-Business Loan
Despite a harsh lending climate, small-business owners have options when it comes to digging up cash.
What a Financial Overhaul Means for Small Businesses
New financial reforms are aimed at regulating big businesses. However, small companies could also get squeezed.
Bank Failures Threaten Small-Business Lending
Could the steady pace of bank failures keep many small businesses from gaining access to new credit?
Bank Chief Accused of TARP Fraud
The former president of New York's small Park Avenue Bank was arrested on fraud charges, one of the first such cases involving a TARP recipient.
Loan Squeeze Thwarts Small-Business Revival
The travails of two Michigan companies illustrate the tough choices their community bank must make.
A Silver Lining for Small-Business Financing?
Experts say money may be coming back to the market but not at pre-downturn levels.
Venture-Capital Firms Struggle
The tech bubble burst left much of the venture-capital industry intact, but is now going through a brutal culling.
Choose Your Credit Card Wisely
Here’s a primer for selecting the right credit card for your business needs.
TALF, Kickstarter for Small-Business Loans, Departs
An early effort to resuscitate credit markets expires this month. A look back at how TALF impacted small-business loans.
What The CARD Act Means for Businesses
Business credit cards weren’t included in the CARD Act, but the new law may still impact businesses.
Stimulus Funding for SBA Loans Runs Out--Again
The popular stimulus provisions reduced fees and offered a 90% guarantee to banks, which catalyzed SBA loan activity.
Vendors Can Help Financing
Strong relationships are vital in landing financing. That's why some businesses have found luck with a group they already know well—their vendors.
Entrepreneurs Weigh Credit-Card Options
Business owners who rely on their company's card won't see any benefits from this month's federal credit-card reform.
Regulators Urge Small Business Loans
The Federal Reserve, FDIC and other state and federal regulators respond to criticism that their post-crisis supervision cut off credit.
The Promise and Peril of Plastic
Credit cards may be the only source of financing these days for many start-ups. But they may not be the firmest foundation.
Obama’s Math: More Exports Equals More Jobs
Less than 1% of the country’s 30 million companies export, so will the president’s new policy have an impact?
Obama to Detail Small Business Plan
President Obama will roll out a proposed $30 billion small-business lending program, the next in a series of efforts to jump-start hiring.
Loan Surge Unlikely From Obama's Plan
Obama's plan to divert $30 billion of federal bailout funds into new small-business loans is unlikely to break the lending logjam.
Banks' Loan Losses Slowing, But Growth is Elusive
Bankers say there isn't appetite for loans. But borrowers, including small-business owners, say banks just aren't lending
Limit Your Credit Risk in a Bad Economy
Use these tips to improve your credit policy and protect yourself, your business and your money.
Local Start-Ups Snag Venture Dollars
Venture-capital investment into young, growing companies across the U.S. dropped last year. But Bay Area start-ups still came out as big 2009 winners.
Another Chance for Small Business Loans?
Earlier this week, President Obama urged bank CEOs to reconsider loans they had rejected for small businesses. A look at who is following through.
4 Alternative Funding Sources
If you can't get a SBA loan, seek alternatives. Here are four funding sources worth considering.
Small Business Cards Now Carry Sizeable Risk
One issuer reports card activity to owners’ individual credit reports.
DOE Becomes Venture Capital Force
The Department of Energy's lending program for ''clean tech'' businesses makes government, in effect, the nation's biggest venture capitalist.
For SBA Loans, Stimulus Well Runs Dry
Two popular stimulus provisions that drew hundreds of banks back to the small-business lending arena ran out of funding Monday.
Cleaning Up Your Company's Bad Credit Profile
The credit crunch sullied many business owners’ credit scores. Here’s how to clean up your company’s credit.
The 70% Discount on Goldman’s $500M Gift
Seen by many as an apology, the actual cost could be far less.
Geithner Calls on US Banks to Boost Lending
At summit, the treasury secretary says limits on credit availability for small businesses may slow the nation's recovery.
How to Score Goldman’s Small Biz Loot
The firm is pledging $500 million. Here’s what it takes to tap the program.
Make an Online Capital Connection
Sometimes finding the right investor is all about chemistry.
Move From Tenant to Owner
Despite the bleak outlook for commercial real estate, purchasing equity now can deliver future profits. Here’s why some businesses stopped paying rent.
VCs Change Their Tune
Many say the traditional venture capital model is dead. Here’s how some VC firms are breaking with tradition.
Is it Time to Refinance?
As interest rates continue to hover at record low levels, it may be a good time for small business owners to consider refinancing.
What a Bankrupt CIT Means for Credit Crunch
Sizing up how the lender’s woes will affect small businesses’ access to loans.
Three Best Ways to Build Business Credit
It's important for a growing business to establish its own credit history. Here’s how.
Icahn Offers Lifeline to CIT
Carl Icahn offered to underwrite a $6 billion loan to small business financier CIT Group.
Does Small Business Have Enough Friends in D.C.?
Job tax credits for hiring new workers is just one new initiative being weighed by the White House. But is it enough?
Entrepreneurs Get Creative for Funding
With venture capital scarce, small-business owners find alternative financing.
CIT Chief to Step Down
Jeffrey Peek plans to resign as CIT's chairman and chief executive at the end of this year as the beleaguered commercial lender tries to stay out of bankruptcy.
High Inflation Making Business Risky
Credit may be easier to get these days, but be careful about getting too far into debt. Inflation can pack a wallop.
Big Returns Come in Micro-sized Packages
A microloan from a community-based lender can provide the cash you need
Echoes on 16th Floor: Venture Capital Exits
The office building once home to Dallas's venture-capital firms has gone quiet, evidence that the industry is consolidating in Silicon Valley and Boston.
Sour Year for SBA Loans Ends With Uptick
The SBA ended its 2009 fiscal year on Wed. marking the close of a tumultuous year of initiatives to keep banks' doors open.
Burnt Rubber: Tire Firms Decry New Tariff
President Obama installed a 35% tariff on Chinese tires, but many small-business owners say they're paying the price.
A Real Credit Thaw or Just a Test?
Chase has four new cards devoted to small businesses. Does this count as a credit thaw?
Quick Tips: 6 Ways to Land Venture Funding Today
As the competition for funding heats up, the likelihood of winning over VCs is declining. Here's how to get their attention.
Chase Offers Small-Business Cards
After giving small-business owners the cold shoulder, some banks are starting to warm up to them again by launching new charge card programs.
SBA to Ease Limits on Loans for Buyouts
The SBA,after enduring a backlash, plans Oct. 1 to modify a restriction it had placed on loans used to finance acquisitions of small companies.
Status Report: Small-Business Lending
Small-business loans are up, but palpable challenges lie ahead.
Entrepreneurs Fight the Consumer Credit Crunch
Tight credit markets continue to undermine the role of credit cards as an early funder of small business ventures.
The Trouble With ARC Loans
The Small Business Administration launched a much-anticipated program that many businesses say has too much red tape.
Banks to Small Biz: ''Borrowers Welcome''
Headlines say ''credit crunch,'' but businesses can still get loans.
Halting Recovery Divides U.S. in Two
At one extreme are big companies with an enviable access to credit; at the other are small, struggling firms that can't borrow.
Quick Tips: 6 Ways to Speed Up SBA Loan Approval
A government loan program could run out of money as soon as November. How to accelerate your company’s approval.
Small Businesses Chase Big Stimulus Money
Hit by the recession, small businesses are eager to win Uncle Sam as a new customer. Five months after the recovery bill's passage, opportunities abound.
Credit Worries Limit Small Retailers' Stock
During this critical back-to-school season, tight credit has some businesses hard-pressed to stock their full range of merchandise.
CIT Pulls Morgan Stanley in Two Directions
Morgan Stanley faces a conflict as it expands retail services to small businesses while advising CIT in its restructuring.
Find Funding in Your Backyard
Local, state and regional funds aim to keep local economies going strong.
Learn to Impress Lenders
Proper preparation is key when you're angling for money to fund your business.
What Higher Wages Mean for Small Businesses
Here's how the new federal minimum wage, which goes into effect today, will affect small businesses.
5 Alternative Sources of Funding
Even if CIT can stave off filing for bankruptcy, business owners should have a back-up. Here are five small business funding alternatives.
A Shaken CIT Breeds New Possibilities
As CIT grapples with deep losses and attempts to regroup, other lenders are eager to pick up the slack.
Hedge Funds: The Other Small Business Lender
Who needs CIT? Hedge funds can make loans to small firms.
7 Steps to Capturing Stimulus Funds
For small businesses, capturing stimulus dollars is no easy task. Here’s a realistic guide to winning those funds.
Quick Tips: 6 Ways to Turn Investors' Heads
As the downturn continues, getting investors to fund your new business idea takes even more preparation.
Void Left by CIT to Be Filled in Time
Trouble at CIT Group could create immediate disruptions for small businesses in the U.S. However, in time, other lenders will likely step forward.
White House Eyes Small Business Aid
The Obama administration is discussing ways to expand assistance to small businesses.
Nonprofits Get a Boost From Uncle Sam
As nonprofits have seen their funds dwindle in the downturn, the president’s recent move to free up $50 million in venture funds could keep them afloat.
5 Lifelines for Your Startup
These organizations can help you find direction and funding.
Many Investors Still Eyeing Start-Ups
Although many venture capitalists and angel investors have stalled their plans for investments, today’s start-ups have a few new funding options.
Small Banks Not Shying From TARP
While Wall Street firms flee TARP and all the strings attached, a steady stream of small banks is still lining up for government money.
SBA Tweaks Rules Of 504 Loan Program
Small businesses can refinance debt under new rules, but only if they plan to expand or buy equipment.
Innovative Ways to Reel in Cash
Cash flow is the biggest problem for many businesses across the country. Here are a few ways to boost your company’s liquidity.
SBA Offers Aid to Cash-Strapped
The emergency loan program launched by the SBA is designed to give established businesses some breathing room on debt. Borrowers, however, may find it difficult to find a bank that is participating.
A Definitive Guide to Government Grants
Everything you need to know in order to get a government grant.
Venture Capitalists Head for the Door
Not since the dot-com bust has the venture-capital industry experienced as much turnover as it is now.
New Small-Business Loans: Financial Help for a Few Lucky Shops
New government-backed loans offer attractive terms, but will only help a fraction of businesses stay afloat.
5 Unique Ways Entrepreneurs Are Raising Money
Forget the credit crunch, these businesses have found unconventional ways to keep their companies afloat.
Three Reasons to Stick to Your Business Credit Card
The CARD Act doesn’t apply to business credit cards -- ironically making them a better choice for most business owners.
Financing a Business Acquisition in a Recession
Even though businesses can be purchased at bargain-basement prices these days, finding financing can be a struggle.
Advanta Leaves Credit-Card Niche
A credit-card company focused solely on small businesses is walking away from its one million customers following passage of the credit card reform bill.
Small Firms Wait for Credit Thaw
Big companies are rushing to issue stocks and bonds to raise capital. But credit is still scarce for thousands of mostly smaller companies that rely on bank lending.
Start-Up Boards Spar over Cash Plans
Many start-ups are finding themselves locked in boardroom dramas as they navigate the tricky tightrope between how much to cut and how much to grow.
Banks Face Hits on Real Estate
Stress-test results are likely to highlight woes from commercial real-estate loans that are piling up at large and small banks alike.
Small-Business Credit Sees Thaw
Many small-business lenders are seeing signs of a thaw in the secondary market for loans backed by the Small Business Administration.
Interpublic Expands Start-Up Incubator
Interpublic Group experiments with an incubator program designed to help young companies develop viable business models.
U.S. Aid Sought for Equity-Backed Firms
VCs and angel investors are pushing for access to programs traditionally reserved for noninvestor-backed businesses.
The Next Big Thing: Where VCs Are Investing
While venture capital has dried up for many industries, some are starting to raise attention – and cash.
How to Raise $1 Million in a Year
A Nevada registered offering program gives entrepreneurs a chance to raise up to $1 million.
Credit Woes Hit Entrepreneurs
Small-business owners are facing a credit-card crunch, hurting the personal finances of some.
Microlenders Widen Their Client Base
With many banks continuing to put a hold on lending, more small-business owners and would-be entrepreneurs are turning to microlenders.
Crowd Funding: Customers as Investors
There's a new business model in which the customers play an unaccustomed role — as investors.
Know How Your VC Gets Paid
The bear market brings several implications for startups looking for funding.
APR Hikes Ambush Biz Owners
Card issuers have changed the rules for small businesses. Do you know how to protect your rate, and take action if necessary?
5 Unconventional Ways to Fund Your Franchise
As traditional funding sources dry up, franchisees have to get creative. Fortunately, reliable strategies aren't being kept secret.
Proposal Aims to Aid Smaller Companies
The small-business community gave a lukewarm reception to the U.S. government's new plans to unlock tight credit.
Cash Dries Up for Biotech Drug Firms
Big pharma companies have spent billions to buy other drug giants lately, leaving behind small biotech firms that can no longer find investors.
Treasury Looks to Aid Small Businesses
The Obama administration is looking to steer new assistance to the nation's small business community.
A New Source for Funding
Unable to get loans at banks, more small businesses are turning to credit unions, most of which didn't get in on the subprime-loan market.
Beware the Triangle of Entrepreneurial Finance
Your business' finances impact your personal finances. Read more to discover how to manage them together.
Credit-Card Issuers Squeezing Small Businesses
From rate hikes to account closures, business owners are being stunned by statements.
Banks Eye Entrepreneurs
Loans, even some of those elusive TARP funds, are available. Just think regional banks and smaller.
Problems Spring Up in Small-Business Loans
The crumbling condition of small business loans is threatening to hamstring the recovery of the U.S. economy.
Venture Capital Forced to Do Triage
The financial crisis is causing venture capital firms to stop backing less-promising start-ups.
Gonna Be A Tough Year
Survive '09 by reducing expenses and watching cash flow.
Raising Money to Grow in Current Climate
Before buying another business, assess your company’s ability to survive a potentially prolonged downturn.
Sizing Up Salaries Inside Franchisers
A new survey is believed to be a first-ever glimpse into the pay of those on the other side of a franchise contract -- the franchisers.
A Small Bank Juggles Its Roles
Community bankers across the country are making daily decisions that affect how the U.S. will make it through this recession and credit crunch.
Stronger Dollar Cools Sales Overseas
A resurgent dollar has rendered U.S.-made goods more expensive abroad amid a spending slowdown.
Slump Batters Small Business
For many small businesses, the dramatic pullback in consumer spending is only the latest blow threatening to push some strapped businesses out of existence.
SBA Loan Cap Hits Minority Owners
Changes to the Small Business Administration loan program are hitting women and minority small-business owners particularly hard.
Can Silicon Valley Avoid a Wall Street-Like Meltdown?
As venture capital funds flounder, the focus among tech firms changes from growth to survival.
Venture Capital Hits a Crunch
Cash-strapped investors are starting to renege on their commitments to venture-capital funds, dealing a blow to an industry that has been the bedrock of Silicon Valley.
Self-Employed Are Frozen Out of Mortgages
The government's efforts to jump-start lending are bypassing the self-employed.
Venture Capitalists Get Creative
As venture-capital funds face a cash crunch driven by the financial downturn, they are taking extreme measures to ensure they can fund their investments.
From Servicemen to Businessmen
For these veterans, the SBA’s Patriot Express loans are a great way to get their ventures off the ground.
Smaller Firms Consider Buying Growth
Chief executives of smaller companies say they will buy their way to growth as the recession continues, but capital constraints have halted several agreed-upon deals already.
A Franchise Lifeline
Franchisers are helping franchisees ride out the credit crunch by providing financing, waivers or assistance in obtaining loans.
Starting Up: Will AmEx Spread the Wealth?
Now that AmEx is a bank, will small-biz owners be able to land more loans?
Successful Cash Flow Management
As the credit crunch persists, properly managing your business’ cash flow is vital. Here are some tips for saving money and managing cash flow.
3 Sources of Franchise Financing
Thinking of starting up a franchise? Before you do, here’s how to make sense of the current economy and its impact on franchise funding.
Small Firms Get Local Loans
Small business owners in need of funds are turning to private local lenders, who may be more familiar with a region's business climate.
Understanding Asset-Based Financing
Asset-based financing can help cash-strapped companies meet their short-term funding needs. But before you proceed, here are a few things to consider.
SBA-Backed Loans Dry Up
A substantial decline in SBA-backed lending is fueling criticism that the federal government isn't doing enough to help businesses in dire need of cash.
Late Payers Hurt Small Businesses
Small businesses face an increased risk that customers will delay paying their bills or default altogether because of the economic turmoil.
Starting Up: Finding Investors in Tough Times
How entrepreneurs can attract attention — and funding — from backers.
Silicon Valley Defers Startup Dreams
Venture capitalists are cutting back their investments, forcing startups to scale back expansion projects, take voluntary pay cuts, delay hiring and slash expenses.
Station Owners Welcome Cheaper Gas
Small gas-station owners say that lower gasoline prices are helping to boost profitability by lowering their costs.
Entrepreneurs Feel Squeeze as Venture Capital Gets Scarce
Venture capitalists are reining in spending amid the financial downturn.
Playing Favorites
Striking that perfect balance between sales, profits and cash flow isn’t always the right thing to do when you want to create more funding opportunities.
Starting Up: Improve Your Chances of Landing a Loan
Attaining a business loan is tough these days. Here are four ways to improve your odds.
Owners: Franchisers Passing on More Costs
Some franchisees say they are being forced to pay for a variety of expenses for the first time — making difficult economic times even tougher.
Five Tips for Avoiding Undercapitalization of Your Business
Here are some tips on avoiding running out of money.
Looking for Cost Cuts in New Places
When little waste exists, small companies often have to get creative. Here's a look at four companies that have cut their overhead expenses without sacrificing necessities.
How to Apply for an SBA Loan
When are you eligible for an SBA loan and what documents will you need to supply?
Money Saving Ideas for Entrepreneurs
You don't have to be rich to start your own business—just wise with your money.
Pedal-Powered Delivery Methods Save Big Bucks
Bicycles offer a healthy, hassle-free alternative for entrepreneurs to deliver their products.
Factoring as Alternative Financing
As business owners struggle to get bank loans, factoring as a source of alternative financing raises new questions. Here are some answers.
Banks' Woes Spread to Their Suppliers
The banking-industry crisis is already hurting small and midsize businesses that were built to provide products and services to a booming financial sector.
Starting Up: Biz Owners See Red Over Bailout
Will the government's financial rescue package help or hurt small-business owners?
Entrepreneurs Scramble for Financing
Small businesses turn to angel investors, suppliers and personal credit cards as access to commercial bank loans becomes more restricted
Keeping the Line of Credit Alive
Banks are slashing business credit lines. Here's how to prevent it from happening to you.
How to Cope With the Credit Crunch
The financial crisis is making it difficult for small businesses to secure credit. A look at alternatives for getting extra cash to run a business in this economy.
Small Banks Hobbled by Fannie, Freddie
Some small banks have a big problem: They invested – in some cases, heavily – in the preferred stock of Fannie and Freddie, which are expected to be worthless.
Credit Crunch Squeezes Franchisees
Lenders are tightening credit to restaurant franchisees in a shift that could make it harder for owners to remodel existing locations and buy new restaurants.
Lots of People Could Use a Cash Infusion
Former NBC news anchor Tom Brokaw takes a look at small businesses across America that could use a helping hand from the U.S. Treasury.
3 Honest Ways to Raise Startup Money
Inflating your business’ profit potential can leave you with deflated results.
Starting Up: For Entrepreneurs, Opportunity Still Knocks
Even in today's environment, some small businesses can thrive. Here's how.
Five Small Business Grant Resources
A lack of funding can crimp small business aspirations, but, there are grant programs available through government agencies and private organizations.
Small Firms Dig for Funding
As many big banks pull back on commercial lending, small companies are turning to a new, and often pricier, set of alternatives.
Financing a Small Firm Getting Harder
After Monday's market meltdown, smaller firms may see even fewer sources for financing.
Setting Up an Accounts Receivable Process
Tracking receivables is an essential part of managing your company's cash flow.
Credit Crunch, Costs Tip More To Bankruptcy
The high cost of fuel and difficulty accessing credit continue to batter both businesses and individuals.
Where Candidates Stand With Small Businesses
Winning the support of small business owners will be a daunting task for Barack Obama and John McCain.
A Photobucket Bonanza, for Insiders
When the photo-sharing Web site was acquired last year, executives at New York-based venture-capital firm Insight Venture Partners made a small fortune.
Control Your Cash Flow
Here are 5 ways to reduce your vulnerability during the credit crunch.
Business Credit Cards Simplify Record Keeping
Here are 5 ways to save time and money in your business.
How HotOrNot Bootstrapped Its Way to Profit, Sale
A resourceful attitude is what is necessary for an entrepreneur to survive and succeed.
Businesses Find Cheap Capital in SBA Mortgages
A little-known SBA loan called the 504 can help you buy commercial space.
Starting Up: Entrepreneurs Turn to Moonlighting
Cash-strapped entrepreneurs take on second jobs to make ends meet.
Four Sources of Alternative Funds
Can't get a bank loan? Cash-strapped entrepreneurs can tap into these sources instead.
What's My Company Worth?
The art and science behind early-stage company valuation.
Venture-Capital IPOs Grind to Standstill
Q2 of this year is to be the first in more than 30 years without a venture-capital-backed initial public offering in the U.S.
Venture Investors Find Comfort in Health Care
After years languishing in the shadows of Internet start-ups, deals involving health-care and medical companies are coming back.
Optimism Knows No Slowdown
Small business owners say they're too busy thriving on Main Street to worry about the gloom and doom on Wall Street.
NetSpend Funds Aid Start-Ups
A $100 million fund is being launched to invest in start-ups providing financial services to people without bank accounts or credit cards
Starting Up: Funding Your Social Venture
It's tough for any business to find funding. But social ventures can tap unique sources.
Pick the Right Credit Card for Your Business
Credit cards offer tremendous value for small business. The challenge is picking the right one.
Is a Peer-to-Peer Loan Right for You?
Business owners seeking cash from peer-to-peer lenders need to consider the risks first.
A Gamble That Went Bust
An Arkansas bank's collapse resulting from real-estate losses is ominous for small and midsize lenders.
Private Eye to the VCs Does 'Human Due Diligence'
Venture capitalists are looking at entrepreneurs from more angles than they used to. Meet their private eye.
Credit Crunch Benefiting Some Start-Ups
The credit crunch is providing an unexpected uptick in business opportunities for some portfolio companies.
Latest Groans: Small-Business Loans
The turbulent economy is exposing yet another type of credit where bankers let their guard down: small-business loans.
How to Qualify for Franchise Loans Even with Bad Credit
Having bad credit makes it harder to qualify for a franchise loan, but it's not impossible.
Small Biz Economy Woes
Why this downturn is hitting small business harder than past economic jolts.
Briggs Helps Clients Cut Event Costs
When clients are hesitant to spend as lavishly as in the past, it's an opportune time for a small company to leverage its small size and personal attention.
Venture Capitalists Shut Wallets
Facing an uncertain economic environment, venture capitalists showed restraint with their wallets in the first quarter.
Small-Business Optimism Plunges
Small-business owners' confidence in the economy is plummeting, prompting cutbacks in hiring and expansion plans, a new survey shows.
Starting Up: Business-Plan Contests
Universities are raising the stakes to make their programs stand out.
Business Loans Get Personal
As credit tightens, entrepreneurs are seeking alternative funding methods through social lending.
Auction-Rate Freeze Hurts Start-Ups
Silicon Valley start-ups are suffering as many are holding the same illiquid auction-rate securities that are hurting large public companies.
Where Either a Borrower or a Lender Can Be
Small-business owners turn to online networks for funds as banks tighten credit.
Startup Financing During the Credit Crunch
Creativity goes a long way when it comes to financing your startup during tough economic times.
Start-Ups Begin Hitting the Brakes
As Silicon Valley stares down the barrel of a possible recession, start-up companies and their investors are beginning to tighten their belts.
When Your Small Business Is Your Nest Egg
Entrepreneurs who bank on selling the business to fund retirement need to recession-proof their plan.
Q&A;: Franchise Funding in Credit Crunch
A loan broker offers tips on how to increase the odds of securing a loan.
Getting Out of a Franchise
When it comes to breaking a franchise contract, the law usually swings in favor of the franchisor.
Starting Up: How Much Money Do I Need?
It's critical to figure out start-up costs before you open your doors. Here's how.
Should I Use a Local or National Bank for My Business?
Only one will be advantageous to your business — which one that is will depend on your own specific needs.
Starting Up: University Incubators
Want to start a business from your dorm room? Some colleges offer a guiding hand.
Quick Tips: How to Recession-Proof Your Business
In troubled economic times, small businesses can take steps to protect themselves.
Speaking From Experience
Women navigating the VC process reveal their errors and offer advice for procuring investment dollars.
Selling a Professional Practice
Strategies for pricing a professional practice and advertising it.
Sites Link Firms With Investors
As the venture world has recovered from the tech bubble bust, a number of web sites offer the ability to connect entrepreneurs with investors.
Venture Capital's New Green Machine
Clean tech is favored; investments reach their highest levels since 2001.
What Is Vendor Leasing?
Vendor leasing helps build vendor-customer relationships while improving vendor sales volume. Read on to learn more.
A Look Ahead
If you made it through 2007, you'll make it through 2008 — or so say economic forecasters asked to describe the near-term environment for entrepreneurs.
VC's New Math: Does Less = More?
How one successful venture capitalist seeks to change old habits by investing small on start-ups.
The Family Plan
Here are some tips to avoid conflict and heartache when tapping friends and family for business capital.
Dare to Venture
Need a cash infusion? Try Venture merchant bank financing to get your business back on track.
Business-Plan Contests in Real World
Business-plan competitions can help would-be entrepreneurs raise cash while honing their business strategy.
Entrepreneur Schilling's 'Unfair Advantage'
Celebrity beat experience when two start-ups competed for the spotlight at a recent Silicon Valley conference.
10 Critical Cash Flow Rules
Protect your business from a common cause of failure by following these cash management tips.
Online Lending Gets Easier and Safer
The U.K.'s Zopa is starting operations in the U.S. where it will be a player in the person-to-person online lending market.
Selling Your Business Online
Of course you can sell your product on the internet. But you can sell your business there, too.
Starting Up: Budgeting for Small-Biz Travel
Need to put in face time with out-of-town clients? Here's how to pay for it.
Angel Groups Spread Their Wings Beyond Tech
Angel groups are now funding later stages of growth and competing with venture capitalists on deals of $1 million or more.
Starting Up: How to Avoid the Credit Crunch
Thanks to the subprime mess, it's harder for business owners to get credit. Here are alternatives.
Verizon Rate Ruling May Hit Small Businesses
Small business customers could face an increase of 20% to 30% in the rates they pay for phone and Internet service.
Financing Your Business with Home Equity
Before turning to your home equity to fund your business, consider the potential drawbacks.
Helping Startups Win Investors
A Los Angeles firm acts as a matchmaker and a coach for entrepreneurs looking for venture funding.
Starting Up: Entrepreneurs Try Virtual Focus Groups
Want to test your idea before you spend your life savings pursuing it? Here's how.
Family Business: To Sell or Not to Sell?
It is a question that can tear families apart. But, if done right, it doesn't have to.
Mistakes to Avoid as a New Franchisee
Learning from those who've gone before you can be a great money-saving tactic.
Guardian Angels
A growing number of well-to-do investors get their kicks funding and coaching local startup companies.
Collecting Bills? Put Your People Skills to Work
Collecting overdue bills while maintaining good relationships with customers often requires keen people skills.
Automated Billing Saves Ticket Broker Time, Money
Here's how an electronic bill-collection system helped one small business keep up with sales.
Three Approaches to Reining in Customer Debts
Here's a look at the steps three small companies took to turn around their lackluster collections.
Avoiding Cash Crunches
For start-ups, it’s all too easy to get strapped for cash these days. Here’s how to make sure the cash keeps flowing.
The Six Best Places to Find Funding for Small Businesses
We show you six avenues to get the capital you need to start and fund your small business.
Help! My Business Is Failing
Sales for my business have been slow and we can't pay our bills. What are our options?
Debt-Turnaround Firms Are Focusing on Small-Business Owners
More corporate restructuring firms are focusing on the small-business market.
Picking the Right Small Business Credit Card
Small-business owners get lots of credit offers. Here's what to look for in a card.
What to Do With a Pile of Money
I have $100,000 in my small-business savings account. Could I do something better with it?
Is Venture Capital Right for You?
Entrepreneurs clamor for it, but it can involve major sacrifices. We'll help you decide.
Do's and Don'ts for Wooing Angel Investors
Here is advice on what a small-business owner should - and shouldn't - do when searching for angel funding.
Banks Turn Attention to African-American Entrepreneurs
Black-owned businesses are booming, with more services being offered to help them succeed.
Making the Most of Online Matchmaking for Small Firms
Wil Schroter talks about what works and what doesn't for business owners using a matchmaking service.
Balancing Act
Excess inventory can eat up your cash, so ditch the superfluous stock and use better management practices to keep your business booming.
Funding Capital-Intensive Companies
Reducing your company's pre-money valuation can make it more attractive to potential investors. Here's how to do it.
Deadly Legal Mistakes
When raising early-stage investment capital, avoid these errors that could lead to the death of your company.
- Fiat Making Comeback to the U.S.
Friday, March 18, 2011 - Golden Paws That Could
Friday, March 18, 2011 - Small Businesses Looking to Change the World Through Social Media
Friday, March 18, 2011 - Tips on How to Grow Your Business, Even in Slippers
Friday, March 18, 2011 - Making a Bad 'Location, Location, Location' Work
Thursday, March 17, 2011 - More Business News @ FoxBusiness.com
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