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Business Planning

Our business planning hub has all of the essential tools, strategies and insights needed to build and maintain a successful small business — a complete resource for starting, managing and growing your business. Discover everything you need to know at business.com.

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Latest: Advice, Tips and Resources

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Article
What Is Supply Chain Distribution?
By Max Freedman | July 11, 2025

Supply chain distribution is used to balance supply and demand. Learn more about the importance of having a distribution plan for your business.

Article
Small Business Guide to Energy Conservation
By Jennifer Dublino | July 11, 2025

Conserving energy can help your business save money, reduce its carbon footprint and help the environment. Learn how your business can save energy.

Champagne toast in an office
Article
Drunk on Money? Why Celebrities Are Investing in Alcohol Brands
By Nicole Fallon | July 10, 2025

More celebrities are investing in alcohol brands than ever before. Here's why – and what you can learn.

Article
Grants For Felons, SBA Programs & More Funding Options
By Sean Peek | July 10, 2025

The government and nonprofits provide funds for felons who want to start a business. Here is a list of options, from grants to crowdfunding to loans.

Article
The Art of Words: How to Write the Perfect Mission Statement
By Sean Peek | July 10, 2025

Your mission statement should show your company's vision and describe how customers see your business. Here's how to create a mission statement that distinguishes you from competitors.

business tools
Article
Fast, Good or Cheap — The Iron Triangle
By Jamie Johnson | July 10, 2025

The iron triangle of product development has shortcomings. Learn why the lean startup process is the best way to achieve "fast, good and cheap," all in one project.

Businesswoman walking through an airport
Article
International Business Etiquette From Around the World
By Danielle Fallon-O’Leary | July 10, 2025

Master international business by learning key etiquette tips from countries like Japan, Germany, and Brazil—from greetings to gift-giving to meeting protocols.

Article
The Management Theory of Henri Fayol
By Sean Peek | July 10, 2025

Henri Fayol’s management theory outlines 14 principles and 5 key functions that shaped modern leadership, from planning and organizing to controlling.

Businesswoman on the phone
Article
Would You Make It on Shark Tank? The Importance of Scalable Business Models
By Jamie Johnson | July 09, 2025

Scalability is a crucial factor in business growth and success. Learn the components of a scalable company and how to scale your business.

Article
Purchasing a Copier? Here Are the Copier Features You Need
By Miranda Fraraccio | July 09, 2025

Even with a reduction in workplace paper usage, office copiers are an essential operational tool. Learn the features and costs of top copiers.

Article
How to Increase Your Restaurant’s Profits in 2025
By Sean Peek | July 07, 2025

The restaurant industry is highly competitive. Here's how your restaurant can save money and attract new customers.

Article
Business Loans: Questions Lenders Ask Potential Borrowers
By Donna Fuscaldo | July 01, 2025

Here's a look at seven questions lenders ask small business borrowers and the reason for each one.

Article
What is business.com+? Everything You Need to Know About Our Exclusive Membership Program
By Shari Weiss | June 26, 2025

The business.com+ membership program takes the pain out of choosing new business services by providing dedicated advisors and unbeatable deals. Learn more.

Article
What Is Fiduciary Liability Insurance?
By Kimberlee Leonard | June 24, 2025

Fiduciary liability insurance protects a business from claims that a benefits plan was mismanaged. Learn what fiduciary liability insurance covers.

Article
How to Build a Seamless Customer Journey Across Digital Channels
By Nicole Fallon | June 24, 2025

Learn how to create a seamless digital customer journey across multiple channels for a frictionless buying experience.

Article
What Is Directors and Officers Liability Insurance?
By Kimberlee Leonard | June 24, 2025

If a lawsuit targets a firm's directors and officers, directors and officers insurance protects their personal assets. Learn how D&O insurance works.

Article
Understanding Data Breach vs. Cyber Liability Insurance
By Kimberlee Leonard | June 24, 2025

Cyber and data breach insurance cover data breach costs, but cyber adds more protection. Learn how to choose the right insurance for your business.

Article
Resources for Veteran-Owned Businesses
By Jennifer Dublino | June 18, 2025

Military veterans seeking to transition to entrepreneurial ventures have a wealth of resources at their disposal. Learn how to access resources for vets.

Article
Projection Mapping and the Law: What Advertisers Should Know
By Sean Peek | June 17, 2025

Projection mapping is a great way to impress customers and brand your business, but you should look into the legal implications first.

Article
Why Your Business Needs Indemnity Insurance
By Mark Fairlie | June 13, 2025

A key component of an insurance policy is restitution for those who have a claim against you. Here’s how indemnity insurance provides that.

Article
Commercial Car Insurance Laws by State
By Mark Fairlie | June 13, 2025

What are your state's requirements for commercial auto insurance coverage? Learn what you and your business need to do to avoid penalties.

Article
What Are Project Management Methodologies and Why Are They Important?
By Amanda Hoffman | June 11, 2025

Project management methodology offers a clear structure for organizing tasks, managing resources and keeping projects moving forward.

Article
What Is a Surety Bond?
By Mark Fairlie | June 11, 2025

Surety bonds act as a legally enforceable guarantee that help small business owners secure third-party contracts. Learn how they work.

Article
Looking for Business Insurance? 10 Questions to Ask a Prospective Broker
By Kimberlee Leonard | June 11, 2025

Business insurance is critical – and complex. Learn how to vet a reputable broker who can help you decide which risks to insure against and for how much.

Article
How Do Commercial Car Insurance Deductibles Work?
By Kimberlee Leonard | June 03, 2025

Commercial car insurance deductibles work just like personal auto insurance deductibles. Learn about collision and comprehensive claims deductibles.

Article
Welcome to America: What Nonresidents Need to Consider When Forming a Company in the U.S.
By Danielle Fallon-O’Leary | June 03, 2025

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
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.

open plan workspace
Article
Renewable Resources: The Impact of Green Energy on the Economy
By Jennifer Dublino | June 02, 2025

Green energy boosts job creation, attracts investment and cuts long-term costs, making it a key driver of sustainable economic growth in the U.S.

Article
Can You Make a Profit and Be Socially Responsible?
By Jennifer Dublino | June 02, 2025

Social responsibility and profit aren't mutually exclusive—businesses that prioritize ethics, sustainability and transparency see stronger loyalty and growth.