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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
The 7 Biggest Challenges of Starting a Business (and How to Overcome Them)
By Jennifer Dublino | May 18, 2026
Learn about the biggest challenges of starting a business, from funding and hiring to finding customers and avoiding burnout, plus practical tips and resources to help your startup succeed.
Article
Cheapest Business Ideas to Start From Home (Under $1,000)
By Donna Fuscaldo | May 06, 2026
Looking for cheap business ideas? Discover 20 home-based businesses you can start for under $1,000, plus startup costs, profit potential and expert scaling advice.
Article
How Much Does It Cost to Start an Online Business?
By Zac Johnson | May 05, 2026
Starting an online business is often affordable but some expenses can vary depending on the business type and your location. Here are tips to help you begin.
Article
The 7 Cheapest Franchises to Buy in 2026
By Sean Peek | April 13, 2026
Franchises offer an opportunity to run a business without having to start from scratch. Find out about some of the cheapest franchise opportunities available.
Article
How Long Is a Company Considered a Startup?
By Sean Peek | April 08, 2026
There are a few factors that define when a company stops being a startup. Here is how to determine when your business has evolved beyond the startup level.
professional agency
Article
Funding Woes, Be Gone: 10 Ways to Minimize Your Startup Costs
By Jennifer Dublino | March 30, 2026
Minimize startup costs by following tips like working from home, outsourcing strategically, negotiating with suppliers, and improving cash flow management.
Article
Best Franchise Podcasts to Help Your Franchised Business Grow
By Amanda Hoffman | March 27, 2026
Looking to start or grow a franchise? These top franchise podcasts offer practical advice, expert insights and real-world stories to help you make smarter decisions.
Article
9 Steps for Building a Successful Construction Business
By Sean Peek | March 20, 2026
Reputation is crucial to a construction business because the stakes are high. Learn how to build a successful construction company with the right tools.
Article
Turn Your Genealogy Hobby Into a Side Business
By Chad Brooks | March 10, 2026
Have you ever considered starting a genealogy business? This guide will walk you through the steps of starting a home-based genealogy business.
Article
10 Things You Must Do Before Starting a Business
By Adam Uzialko | March 09, 2026
Find out what you must do before starting a business, from writing a business plan to getting the proper insurance.
Entrepreneur using a phone
Article
How to Stay Motivated to Start a Business
By Simone Johnson | March 05, 2026
Stay motivated when starting a business by focusing on physical health, practicing daily mindset shifts, and creating a strong mission statement you believe in.
Article
4 Reasons Why Texas Is a Hot State for Starting a Business
By Sean Peek | February 21, 2026
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 Roadmap to Starting a Membership Site From Scratch
By Mark Thompson | February 17, 2026
A subscription site is easy to start and can offer big rewards. Follow these steps to build a loyal member base.
Article
7 Things to Consider Before Starting a Restaurant
By Max Freedman | February 10, 2026
Before you launch your restaurant business, learn about important considerations, such as location, marketing and software.
Article
The Art of Words: How to Write the Perfect Mission Statement
By Sean Peek | February 09, 2026
Keep mission statements under 25 words with strong, specific language. Use action-oriented verbs, avoid generalities and address the “how” not just “what.”
Business owner working on a laptop
Article
Starting a Business From Home: The Ultimate Checklist
By Julie Thompson | January 30, 2026
Starting a business requires an organized approach to administrative, legal and practical tasks. Follow this checklist to start a business from home.
Article
Starting an Advertising Agency
By Sean Peek | January 30, 2026
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
How to Choose and Open a Business Checking Account
By Meredith Wood | January 23, 2026
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 Get a License for Your Construction Company
By Sean Peek | January 23, 2026
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 22, 2026
Pharmaceutical wholesalers purchase medications directly from manufacturers and then sell the medications to pharmacies.
Article
5 Tips for Building an Investor-Ready Franchise Business
By Howard Goldstein | January 14, 2026
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.
Accounting
Article
Everything to Know About Business Checking Account Fees
By Donna Fuscaldo | January 13, 2026
Here's a look at the business checking account fees you could face and how to avoid them.
Article
Welcome to America: What Nonresidents Need to Consider When Forming a Company in the U.S.
By Danielle Fallon-O’Leary | January 09, 2026
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.
Man in a suit writing on paper
Article
How to Write an Executive Summary in a Business Plan
By Jennifer Dublino | January 06, 2026
Learn how to write an executive summary. This guide shows you why to write it last, tailor it to your audience, include product details and a funding ask.
Article
How to Become a Full-Time Airbnb Entreprener
By Mark Fairlie | January 05, 2026
Airbnb has revolutionized rentals, giving entrepreneurs a way to earn. Learn how to start and grow a successful Airbnb business with this guide.
Article
You Can Start a Business With as Little as $0: A Complete 2026 Guide
By Tom Drake | January 05, 2026
It is possible to go into business with limited startup capital. Here is how to become a successful entrepreneur, even without huge assets.
marijuana leaves
Article
How to Open a Cannabis Dispensary Legally: Complete 2026 Guide
By Mark Fairlie | January 05, 2026
Cannabis is a big business. Here is a startup guide for how you can enter this industry legally.
Article
Want to Invest in Digital Real Estate? How to Get Started
By Sean Peek | January 02, 2026
Investing in digital real estate, like web domains and Metaverse land, is equal parts lucrative and risky. Learn how to invest wisely in this guide.
Article
The Dropbox Effect: How to Utilize the Lean Startup Methodology
By Sean Peek | December 19, 2025
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
How to Start a Clothing Store
By Shari Weiss | December 10, 2025
Our guide breaks down everything you need to know about starting an in-person or online clothing store, with expert advice from retailers.