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.

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Latest: Advice, Tips and Resources

Article

9 Steps for Building a Successful Construction Business

By Sean Peek | September 25, 2026

Forge a solid reputation and secure a loyal client base with this guide.

Article

How to Open a Cannabis Dispensary Legally: Complete 2026 Guide

By Mark Fairlie | September 18, 2026

Legal cannabis is one of the fastest-growing industries in the U.S. Learn how to get involved in the industry and navigate its complexities.

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You Can Start a Business With as Little as $0: A Complete 2026 Guide

By Tom Drake | September 17, 2026

Learn about what businesses you can start with limited to no startup capital.

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How to Start a Clothing Store

By Shari Weiss | September 15, 2026

Follow these steps and our expert-backed advice to start your physical or online clothing store.

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How to Choose and Open a Business Checking Account

By Meredith Wood | September 14, 2026

The business checking account you choose matters. Here's what to look for and how to get started.

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Funding Woes, Be Gone: 10 Ways to Minimize Your Startup Costs

By Jennifer Dublino | September 09, 2026

Save money when you're starting your business and set yourself up for success.

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10 Things You Must Do Before Starting a Business

By Adam Uzialko | September 09, 2026

Launching a new venture is an exciting milestone, but thorough preparation is key to survival. Below are 10 essential steps to take before opening your doors, along with common pitfalls to avoid.

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The New Business Owner’s Starter Checklist: LLC, Domain and Everything in Between

By Chad Brooks | August 11, 2026

There’s a lot to do when starting a business, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This checklist will help you stay on top of the most important tasks.

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5 Mistakes First-Time LLC Owners Make — and How to Avoid Them

By Chad Brooks | August 11, 2026

These mistakes are common among first-time LLC owners. Make sure you avoid them with the help of this guide.

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What Is a Registered Agent and Why Does It Matter?

By Chad Brooks | August 11, 2026

Your registered agent determines whether you find out you are being sued and whose address the public sees.

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The Small Business Owner’s Guide to Keeping Your Home Address Off Public Record

By Chad Brooks | August 11, 2026

Registering your business could mean exposing your home address to the public. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to avoid doing so.

Article

Cheapest Business Ideas to Start From Home (Under $1,000)

By Donna Fuscaldo | August 06, 2026

You don't need much cash to get a business up and running. Opportunities abound for aspiring entrepreneurs to become business owners with less than $1,000. Here's a look at 20 of them.

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Turn Your Genealogy Hobby Into a Side Business

By Chad Brooks | August 05, 2026

Learn how to turn your passion for genealogy into a legitimate home-based business.

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Starting a Business From Home: The Ultimate Checklist

By Julie Thompson | July 16, 2026

Stay on the right track to set up your home business for success.

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Welcome to America: What Nonresidents Need to Consider When Forming a Company in the U.S.

By Danielle Fallon-O’Leary | July 13, 2026

Here’s what non-U.S. residents need to know about starting a business in the United States.

Article

The Roadmap to Starting a Membership Site From Scratch

By Mark Thompson | June 26, 2026

Do you want to create an informative, engaging subscription site with a loyal member base? There are some specific steps you’ll need to follow to launch successfully.

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The 7 Biggest Challenges of Starting a Business (and How to Overcome Them)

By Jennifer Dublino | June 26, 2026

Starting a business isn't for the faint of heart. Identifying and tackling your biggest challenges is crucial for long-term success.

Article

Want to Invest in Digital Real Estate? How to Get Started

By Sean Peek | June 16, 2026

You’ve seen people make money from website ownership. Here’s how you can do it, too.

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How Much Does It Cost to Start an Online Business?

By Zac Johnson | May 05, 2026

Everybody’s startup costs will be a little different, but here are some common expenses you can expect to see when you’re starting an online business.

Article

The 7 Cheapest Franchises to Buy in 2026

By Sean Peek | April 13, 2026

Franchises are a way to own and run your own business without having to put in the legwork to determine what to sell or how to market it.

Article

How Long Is a Company Considered a Startup?

By Sean Peek | April 08, 2026

Though many companies refer to themselves as startups long after their launch, there are some clear signs a business no longer fits that category.

Article

Best Franchise Podcasts to Help Your Franchised Business Grow

By Amanda Hoffman | March 27, 2026

Discover the top franchise podcasts to gain expert insights, proven strategies and real-world advice to grow or start your franchise.

Article

How to Stay Motivated to Start a Business

By Simone Johnson | March 05, 2026

What's your motivation for starting a business? Here's how to find and sustain your drive for business ownership.

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4 Reasons Why Texas Is a Hot State for Starting a Business

By Sean Peek | February 21, 2026

Here’s why so many startups are heading to Texas.

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7 Things to Consider Before Starting a Restaurant

By Max Freedman | February 10, 2026

Launching a restaurant requires careful planning and consideration. Here’s what you need to know.

Article

The Art of Words: How to Write the Perfect Mission Statement

By Sean Peek | February 09, 2026

Do your customers have the same idea of your company as you do? If not, you need to work on your mission statement.

Article

Starting an Advertising Agency

By Sean Peek | January 30, 2026

Launching an advertising agency can be a low-cost way to enter entrepreneurship. Here's exactly how to do it.

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How to Get a License for Your Construction Company

By Sean Peek | January 23, 2026

Learn what license your construction company needs and how to obtain it.

Article

What Is a Pharmaceutical Wholesaler?

By Danielle Fallon-O’Leary | January 22, 2026

Pharmaceutical wholesalers purchase medications from manufacturers. Here's what you need to know about the process.

Article

5 Tips for Building an Investor-Ready Franchise Business

By Howard Goldstein | January 14, 2026

If you're opening a business franchise, there's a good chance you'll seek investor funding. Here are crucial considerations when building an investor-ready franchise.

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