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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

Article
SWOT Analysis Guide for Businesses
By Kiely Kuligowski | July 25, 2025

SWOT ― which stands for “strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats” ― is a type of analysis that helps you develop your business strategy.

Article
Why You Need to Develop Your Own Unique Product
By Jared Haw | July 25, 2025

If you sell products that anyone can get from other merchants, you'll never become a leader in your market. Here's how to develop unique products instead.

Article
4 Marketing Hacks to Help You Attract the Right Investors
By Jennifer Dublino | July 25, 2025

Marketing strategy is a crucial aspect of landing investors. Use your marketing skills to identify, message and pitch potential business investors.

people talking in a lawyer's office
Article
How to Handle a Business Lawsuit
By Mark Fairlie | July 25, 2025

Business owners are vulnerable to lawsuits. Learn common lawsuit types, as well as how to handle a lawsuit, deal with insurance, and protect your company.

Article
The Netflix Business Model: What to Learn From Netflix’s Industry Disruption
By Mark Fairlie | July 24, 2025

Netflix's digital disruption shows how embracing innovation, customer data and adaptability can help businesses outpace competitors and reshape industries.

Article
9 Little-Known Ways to Network With Hospitality Industry Insiders
By Jennifer Dublino | July 24, 2025

Making contacts within the hospitality industry can create opportunities for your business. Learn how to start networking effectively.

Article
What Is Commercial Property Insurance? A Complete Guide to Insurance on Commercial Building
By Mark Fairlie | July 24, 2025

Commercial property insurance covers the building and items that you own or lease against such perils as fire, explosions, theft, and vandalism.

Article
What Is a Hold Harmless Agreement?
By Kimberlee Leonard | July 24, 2025

A hold harmless agreement releases a party from the consequences of another's actions. Learn how and when to use a hold harmless agreement in business.

Article
Office Moves & Business Relocation: How to Move Successfully
By Jennifer Dublino | July 23, 2025

Use an office relocation as an opportunity to streamline and improve operations. Learn how to make your office move a success.

Article
Write Your Way to a Win: Business Proposal 101
By Jennifer Dublino | July 23, 2025

In some industries, writing business proposals is a crucial way to win new clients. Learn how to write a successful business proposal..

Article
International Market Expansion: The Benefits of Global Expansion
By Mark Fairlie | July 23, 2025

Global expansion means expanding your business overseas. Learn the benefits of going global and what steps to take for international market expansion.

businessman talking on a phone in an office setting
Article
What Is Supply Chain Distribution?
By Max Freedman | July 23, 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
Make It Memorable: Tips for Creating an Effective Brand Name
By Jennifer Dublino | July 23, 2025

Your brand's name is the foundation for all your future marketing and sales communications. Follow these tips to make it the best possible brand name.

Article
Roth IRA Self-Employed Guide: What to Know About Roth IRAs
By Jennifer Dublino | July 22, 2025

This guide explains how self-employed people can make Roth IRA contributions to save for their retirement.

Article
Retirement Funds for the Self-Employed: A Complete Guide
By Donna Fuscaldo | July 22, 2025

How do self-employed people plan for retirement? Here are a few retirement plan options for the solopreneur.

Article
Do I Need Product Liability Insurance?
By David Gargaro | July 22, 2025

Product liability insurance is needed for businesses that make, sell or distribute products. Learn about what it covers and how much it costs.

Article
What Is Professional Liability Insurance?
By David Gargaro | July 22, 2025

An insurance policy that service-related businesses need is professional liability insurance. Learn about what it covers and protects against.

Article
Business Owners’ Guide to Workers’ Compensation
By David Gargaro | July 22, 2025

If your business has employees, nearly every state requires you to have workers' compensation insurance. Learn about what it covers and how much it costs.

Article
How to Identify Industries That Are Ready for Disruption
By Sean Peek | July 21, 2025

Learn how to identify industries that are ready for disruption and which markets are being shaken up.

Article
Why Are Small Businesses So Important? 10 Ways They Empower Communities
By Mark Fairlie | July 18, 2025

Small businesses fuel local economies by creating jobs, fostering innovation, and supporting communities through resilience, adaptability and human connection.

Article
What Is Errors and Omissions Insurance?
By David Gargaro | July 18, 2025

E&O insurance guards your business against lawsuits brought by dissatisfied customers. Find out what it covers and costs, and whether you really need it.

Businesspeople in an office
Article
Why Are So Many Companies Moving to Florida?
By Jennifer Dublino | July 17, 2025

Many established companies of all sizes have decided to make Florida their home. Learn why companies are moving to Florida and how to make the move.

Article
Car Insurance for Business: A Complete Guide to Commercial Auto Insurance
By Nicole Urbanowicz | July 16, 2025

Commercial auto insurance is critical for businesses that operate vehicles and have employees driving for work purposes. Here is what you need to know.

Article
Young Entrepreneurs: 10 Inspiring Business Owners Under 40
By Sean Peek | July 16, 2025

Check out our list of inspiring entrepreneurs under 40 who have paved the way for themselves and many others with successful businesses.

Article
What Is ERP Software & How Can It Increase Efficiency?
By Jamie Johnson | July 16, 2025

Find out how ERP software can help you efficiently manage the most important operations of your business.

Article
10 Ways to Reduce Operational Costs for Your Small Business
By Jennifer Dublino | July 15, 2025

Because small businesses operate on tight margins, sustaining a healthy profit is critical. Learn how to increase revenue and reduce expenses. 

Article
When Is Auto Insurance Tax Deductible?
By Kimberlee Leonard | July 15, 2025

Auto insurance can be tax deductible when you use your vehicle for business. Learn what you can write off and how to find the best tax strategy for you.

marketing meeting
Article
Songs About Business: These Hit Tracks Have Hidden Lessons for Entrepreneurs
By Mike Berner | July 14, 2025

Entrepreneurs and business owners can learn some valuable lessons from the lyrics of hit songs by Beyoncé, Frank Sinatra and more.

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
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.