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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
How to Identify Industries That Are Ready for Disruption
By Sean Peek | September 14, 2026
Some of today's most successful startups have grown quickly by shaking up their industries.
Article
9 Surefire Strategies to Help You Stand Out From the Competition
By Stella Morrison | September 14, 2026
Gain the upper hand on rivals by differentiating your business.
Article
How to Determine How Much Office Space You Need
By Jennifer Dublino | September 14, 2026
Before signing a lease, figure out how much square footage your team actually needs to work comfortably and efficiently.
sustainable business plan
Article
How to Create a Sustainable Business Model
By Drew Hendricks | September 14, 2026
A sustainable business benefits your customers without jeopardizing the planet or future generations.
Article
How to Structure a Stock Purchase Agreement (Template)
By Max Freedman | September 14, 2026
Learn how to outline the sale of company stock to buyers, and view a helpful template.
marketing meeting
Article
Songs About Business: These Hit Tracks Have Hidden Lessons for Entrepreneurs
By Mike Berner | September 14, 2026
Get motivated with lyrics by artists ranging from Beyoncé to Frank Sinatra.
businesswoman using a smartphone
Article
Best Business Newsletters of 2026
By Sammi Caramela | September 10, 2026
Make this the year you become a better business owner or entrepreneur — all thanks to these newsletters.
business tools
Article
Fast, Good or Cheap — The Iron Triangle
By Jamie Johnson | September 10, 2026
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.
Article
Time Crunch: An Entrepreneur’s Guide to Prioritizing Your Tasks
By Jennifer Post | September 10, 2026
Task management is critical for busy business owners. Here's how to get and stay organized.
person drawing logos in a sketchbook next to a color palette
Article
How to Create a New Brand Image From Scratch
By Jennifer Dublino | September 10, 2026
Creating a new brand image is a challenging but crucial task. Here's how to go about it.
person holding a credit card
Article
The Best Places for Purchasing Office Supplies
By Mark Fairlie | September 09, 2026
Here are some solid purchasing programs for your business.
person holding an insurance contract
Article
How to Review Your Business Insurance Annually
By Adam Uzialko | September 09, 2026
Article
8 Keys to Upscaling Your Business
By Asim Rais Siddiqui | September 09, 2026
Running and growing your business involves risky decisions, but you can minimize these risks with a sustainable business growth strategy.
Article
Buying a Car for Your Business? How to Avoid Mistakes
By Jennifer Dublino | September 09, 2026
Ensure you're making the best investment for your company.
professional agency
Article
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.
Article
5 Ways a UX Designer Can Benefit Your Company
By Jamie Johnson | September 09, 2026
The right UX designer can help small businesses become more efficient, user-friendly and innovative.
Article
10 Ways to Reduce Operational Costs for Your Small Business
By Jennifer Dublino | September 09, 2026
Cutting business expenses can boost profitability and productivity. Learn how.
Article
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.
Article
Do It for Me: The Next Evolution of the On-Demand Economy
By Jamie Johnson | September 08, 2026
Learn how to take advantage of the emerging do-it-for-me (DIFM) movement.
Article
Does Your Business Have a Battle Rhythm? Why You Need One
By Danielle Fallon-O’Leary | September 08, 2026
Businesses can benefit by implementing the key aspects of a military “battle rhythm.”
Article
Should Your Business Customize Its Products?
By Jamie Johnson | September 08, 2026
As customer data becomes widely available, many companies offer customized products.
Article
How to Cash In on Your Excess Inventory
By Bennett Conlin | September 04, 2026
Turn surplus stock into money you can invest in your business.
Article
Can You Make a Profit and Be Socially Responsible?
By Jennifer Dublino | September 04, 2026
In this guide, we'll show you how to balance profit and social responsibility in the current economic landscape.
person signing a contract
Article
Can You Keep a Secret? The Importance of Nondisclosure Agreements
By Kimberlee Leonard | September 04, 2026
Learn how to protect confidential and proprietary information via NDAs.
Busy office
Article
How to Tell if Your Business Is Growing Too Quickly (and What to Do About It)
By Mark Fairlie | September 04, 2026
If you notice these warning signs, it may be time to slow down.
Article
How to Build Business Momentum With Limited Resources
By Sean Peek | September 04, 2026
You don't need a massive bankroll to propel your business to new heights.
Article
What a Bill of Materials Is and Why You Need One
By Sean Peek | September 04, 2026
A bill of materials is essential for organizing manufacturing processes, managing resources and reducing waste.
Article
8 Reasons Why the Cash-Only Model Doesn’t Work for Small Businesses
By Mark Fairlie | September 04, 2026
Your customers need the convenience of multiple payment options.
woman working at a table
Article
7 Pain Points Entrepreneurs Should Expect and Embrace
By Sean Peek | September 04, 2026
Use these strategies to prepare for the challenges of entrepreneurship.
accountants working at a desk
Article
11 Ways to Drastically Cut Business Costs
By Katharine Paljug | September 04, 2026
Cutting costs is top of mind for many small business owners looking to improve profitability and strengthen their financial footing.