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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
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 Much Does It Cost to Start an Online Business?
By Zac Johnson | January 23, 2026

While expenses to begin an online business vary, here are some common costs you can expect to see with your new venture.

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
12 Things You Must Do Before Starting a Business
By Adam Uzialko | January 20, 2026

Find out what you must do before starting a business, from writing a business plan to getting the proper insurance.

Article
7 Things to Consider Before Starting a Restaurant
By Max Freedman | January 15, 2026

Before you launch your restaurant business, learn about important considerations, such as location, marketing and software.

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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
9 Steps for Building a Successful Construction Business
By Sean Peek | January 12, 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
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.

Article
The 7 Biggest Challenges of Starting a Business (and How to Overcome Them)
By Jennifer Dublino | January 07, 2026

Starting a business is a difficult endeavor. Learn the biggest challenges that come with entrepreneurship and how to overcome them and find success.

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
Funding Woes, Be Gone: 10 Ways to Minimize Your Startup Costs
By Jennifer Dublino | January 06, 2026

Minimize startup costs by following tips like working from home, outsourcing strategically, negotiating with suppliers, and improving cash flow management.

Article
The Art of Words: How to Write the Perfect Mission Statement
By Sean Peek | January 06, 2026

Keep mission statements under 25 words with strong, specific language. Use action-oriented verbs, avoid generalities and address the "how" not just "what."

Article
Cheapest Business Ideas to Start from Home (Under $1,000)
By Donna Fuscaldo | January 06, 2026

You don't need a ton of cash to launch a business. Opportunities abound to start an at-home business with less than $500 or $1,000. See ideas and pro tips.

Article
The 8 Cheapest Franchises to Buy in 2026
By Sean Peek | January 06, 2026

Discover the cheapest franchises to start in 2026, with low entry costs and high potential in travel, cleaning, real estate, and more.

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.

Business owner working on a laptop
Article
Starting a Business From Home: The Ultimate Checklist
By Julie Thompson | December 01, 2025

Starting a business requires an organized approach to administrative, legal and practical tasks. Follow this checklist to start a business from home.

Article
Best Franchise Podcasts to Help Your Franchised Business Grow
By Amanda Hoffman | August 07, 2025

Explore the best franchise podcasts for expert tips, interviews and tools to help new and seasoned franchisees succeed.

Article
When Are You No Longer a Startup?
By Sean Peek | July 31, 2025

How do you know your business has passed the startup stage? Find out the key signs here.

Article
Time Trapped: The Productivity Crisis Facing Small Business Leaders
By Chad Brooks | June 23, 2025

Small business leaders spend more time on email and admin than strategy. Learn how to reclaim time through delegation, focus and technology.

Article
Turn Your Genealogy Hobby Into a Side Business
By Chad Brooks | June 02, 2025

Have you ever considered starting a genealogy business? This guide will walk you through the steps of starting a home-based genealogy business.

Entrepreneur using a phone
Article
How to Stay Motivated to Start a Business
By Simone Johnson | May 06, 2025

Stay motivated when starting a business by focusing on physical health, practicing daily mindset shifts, and creating a strong mission statement you believe in.

Haley Solar
Article
Will Shoppers Return to ‘Made in USA’ Fashion? It’s Working for Haley Solar
By Tess Barker | February 26, 2025

Our full Q&A with the acclaimed Los Angeles designer

Article
Starting an Advertising Agency
By Sean Peek | December 18, 2024

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.