Short Take: Why Half of Small Businesses Fail Within 5 Years

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 20% of small businesses fail within their first year, and about half of small businesses fail within 5 years. This sobering reality check reminds us that entrepreneurship, while rewarding, comes with significant risks. Understanding these failure patterns can help aspiring business owners beat the odds. The … Read more

Short Take: The Problem with Mixing Business and Personal Credit Cards

With 61% of business owners using personal credit cards for business expenses, the practice of mixing business and personal credit cards has become surprisingly common. Yet this seemingly harmless habit can trigger serious consequences that many entrepreneurs discover too late. From tax nightmares to legal vulnerabilities, the risks far outweigh any perceived convenience. The Tax … Read more

Small Business Cash Flow: Keep Your Business Thriving

More than half of small businesses cite uneven cash flows as a major challenge, according to the Federal Reserve’s 2024 Small Business Credit Survey. This statistic reveals a harsh reality: even profitable businesses can fail when they can’t manage their cash flow effectively. Small business cash flow management isn’t just about keeping track of money—it … Read more

How to Create a Franchise Model from an Existing Business

The franchise industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with the global market surpassing $890 billion in 2024 and projected to grow nearly 10% annually in the coming years, according to Forbes. This remarkable expansion reflects franchising’s proven track record as one of the most successful business models available today. If you own a profitable business with … Read more

15 Questions to Ask When Buying a Small Business

According to BizBuySell’s Insight Data, which tracks U.S. business-for-sale transactions, 9,093 small businesses were sold in 2023, representing $6.5 billion in total deal value. With 33.3 million small businesses operating nationwide and many owners approaching retirement age, the market for business acquisitions continues to grow. However, buying a small business represents one of the most … Read more

Business Startup Costs: Complete List of Expenses

Starting a business requires more than just a great idea—it demands careful financial planning. Business startup costs can make or break your entrepreneurial dreams before they even begin. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, most microbusinesses cost around $3,000 to start, while most home-based franchises cost $2,000 to $5,000. More substantial ventures can require … Read more

EIN vs ITIN vs SSN: Your Complete Business Guide

Starting a business comes with countless decisions, but few are as fundamental as understanding the difference between these acronyms. These tax identification numbers serve distinct purposes in the business world, yet many entrepreneurs find themselves confused about which one they need and when. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 5 million new Employer Identification … Read more

7 Business Expansion Models: Choosing the Right Growth Strategy

In today’s competitive business landscape, expansion is not just desirable—it’s essential for long-term sustainability. Business expansion takes many forms, whether leveraging existing customer loyalty to extend influence into their networks or branching into entirely new business models. Companies across industries must carefully consider which business expansion models align with their resources, objectives, and risk tolerance. … Read more

Guide to Small Business Tax Deductions

As a small business owner, I’ve learned that every dollar saved on taxes is another dollar that can be reinvested to grow my company. Small business tax deductions represent one of the most powerful tools in your financial arsenal, yet they remain underutilized by many entrepreneurs. According to a study conducted by the TIGTA, the … Read more

Business Valuation Methods: Essential Guide for First-Time Buyers

If you’re considering purchasing a business, understanding business valuation methods is non-negotiable. According to recent data from BizBuySell, nearly 40% of first-time business buyers overpay simply because they don’t understand proper valuation techniques. Whether you’re eyeing a small local shop or a larger enterprise, knowing how to accurately determine what a business is truly worth … Read more

How to Write a Business Plan: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Writing a business plan is one of the most important steps in establishing a successful business. According to the Journal of Management Studies, companies with written business plans grow faster than those without them. Whether you’re seeking funding or simply mapping out your business journey, knowing how to write a business plan provides clarity, direction, … Read more

Choosing the Best Business Structure: LLC vs Corporation vs Sole Proprietorship

Starting a new business involves many critical decisions, and selecting the best business structure for your startup ranks among the most important. Whether you’re launching a tech venture, opening a retail store, or starting a consulting practice, your choice of business structure will impact everything from taxes to personal liability. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll … Read more

How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Small Business? A Complete Guide

Small business ownership represents a path to financial independence, but understanding the cost to buy a small business can be complex. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned entrepreneur, knowing what to expect financially is essential for making an informed investment decision. According to a study by BizBuySell, the median sale price for a … Read more

The Ultimate Guide to Building Business Credit

In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, building business credit is a critical step towards financial stability and growth. According to a 2023 survey by the National Small Business Association, 27% of small businesses reported that lack of available capital had a significant impact on their ability to grow or expand operations. This statistic underscores the … Read more