Still Wondering Whether or Not You REALLY Need a Biz Plan?

As posted on the Wall Street Journal’s “Independent Street” blog for entrepreneurs on 2/9/09…
“We’ve featured the great debate over whether having a formal business plan boosts an entrepreneur’s odds of success. But a new study finds that entrepreneurs who engage in business planning early on are more likely to at least get a business off the ground.”
Read more:  http://blogs.wsj.com/independentstreet/2009/02/09/advance-planning-pays-off-for-start-ups/?mod=rss_WSJBlog?mod=smallbusiness
 

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Small Biz Loan in This Economy

In the February/March 2009 issue of MyBUSINESS, a bi-monthly publication from the NFIB, an article entitled “What Lenders Want” was featured. In addition to a) approaching the right bank, b) being prepared to answer tough questions, and c) identifying two sources to repay the loan, the following entry caught my eye. Entrepreneurs, pay close attention [...]

A Bank FOR Entrepreneurs Created BY Entrepreneurs

Who knew? Last January, Savoy Bank (www.banksavoy.com) opened it’s doors in mid-town Manhattan with a mission to be a full-service bank to local small businesses. At a time when several banks are shutting down every week, I’m wondering how Savoy Bank will weather the storm - and I hope they do indeed succeed. I commend them [...]

Business Plans Are No Longer “Optional”

You’ve heard it before. You’ve resisted. But you’re certain you don’t need to invest the time and money in developing a business plan.
News flash! If you are planning to launch a business and secure any type of funding, this is no longer an optional exercise given increased restrictions, requirements, and economic uncertainty. Whether you choose [...]

Using Pull Marketing to Build Your Clientele

I recently read an article published by the American Marketing Association on the importance and value of “pull marketing.” Now that so much our of marketing is done via the Internet, I thought I’d share a few tidbits to help you build a loyal customer base.
Instead of using “push” marketing techniques that are losing their [...]