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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 Much Does It Cost to Start an Online Business?
By Zac Johnson | May 05, 2026
Everybody’s startup costs will be a little different, but here are some common expenses you can expect to see when you’re starting an online business.
mentor consulting an intern
Article
Excess Liability Insurance Explained
By Kimberlee Leonard | May 04, 2026
Learn how excess liability insurance works, what it covers, how it differs from umbrella policies and how to tell if your business needs it.
Article
62 Uplifting Quotes from Famous Women
By Sean Peek | April 28, 2026
These inspiring quotes from trailblazing women serve as a reminder to us all that we can overcome daunting challenges, both personal and professional.
Article
The Netflix Business Model: What to Learn From Netflix’s Industry Disruption
By Mark Fairlie | April 13, 2026
Just as Netflix disrupted the media landscape to find success, all businesses must innovate or risk becoming obsolete.
Article
The 7 Cheapest Franchises to Buy in 2026
By Sean Peek | April 13, 2026
Franchises are a way to own and run your own business without having to put in the legwork to determine what to sell or how to market it.
Article
How Long Is a Company Considered a Startup?
By Sean Peek | April 08, 2026
Though many companies refer to themselves as startups long after their launch, there are some clear signs a business no longer fits that category.
podcast equipment
Article
Best Business Podcasts You Should Be Listening to in 2026
By Skye Schooley | April 01, 2026
Podcasts are a great way to get business advice, learn about industry trends and find entrepreneurial inspiration. Check out our top picks below.
Champagne toast in an office
Article
Drunk on money? Why celebrities are investing in alcohol brands
By Nicole Fallon | March 31, 2026
More celebrities are investing in alcohol brands than ever before. Here's why.
Article
MLMs Are Preying on the Dream of Entrepreneurship
By Tom Anziano | March 30, 2026
Learn how to tell if you're dealing with a legitimate outfit or a predatory scam.
Article
Crazy Business Ideas That Were Surprisingly Successful
By Sean Peek | March 30, 2026
Discover how these seemingly “bad” ideas were actually genius – and how to tell which side of the fence your concept falls on.
Article
Best Franchise Podcasts to Help Your Franchised Business Grow
By Amanda Hoffman | March 27, 2026
Discover the top franchise podcasts to gain expert insights, proven strategies and real-world advice to grow or start your franchise.
Article
Retirement Funds for the Self-Employed: A Complete Guide
By Donna Fuscaldo | March 24, 2026
Business owners need to prepare for their retirement. Here are several saving options to consider.
Article
Young Entrepreneurs: 10 Inspiring Business Owners Under 40
By Sean Peek | March 20, 2026
Learn about business leaders under 40 who have built successful companies and are trailblazers for generations to come.
Businesspeople in an office
Article
Why Are So Many Companies Moving to Florida?
By Jennifer Dublino | March 09, 2026
Learn why businesses are heading to the Sunshine State and what you need to know if you're considering a move.
Article
25 Home Office Products to Level Up Your Workspace
By Shari Weiss | March 09, 2026
You have the essentials — but what about the fun? See our picks for the products that’ll make your home office the best place to run your business.
Entrepreneur using a phone
Article
How to Stay Motivated to Start a Business
By Simone Johnson | March 05, 2026
What's your motivation for starting a business? Here's how to find and sustain your drive for business ownership.
Article
The Game of Pricing: How the Number 9 Affects Purchase Behavior
By Jennifer Dublino | March 02, 2026
The number nine can have a serious impact on your sales — if you use it thoughtfully.
Article
Workers’ Comp Insurance: How Much Do You Need?
By Max Freedman | February 26, 2026
Determining the right level of workers' compensation coverage is a balancing act. Too much coverage can strain your budget, while too little leaves your business exposed to serious liability.
Article
How Does a Workers’ Comp Settlement Work?
By Kimberlee Leonard | February 20, 2026
The settlement process will depend on various factors, including your state.
Article
7 Things to Consider Before Starting a Restaurant
By Max Freedman | February 10, 2026
Launching a restaurant requires careful planning and consideration. Here’s what you need to know.
book
Article
Requirements for Keeping Paycheck Records
By Julie Thompson | January 30, 2026
Employers are required to keep thorough paycheck records, and the rules aren't always simple. Here's what you need to know.
laptop
online customer
Article
How to Set a Price for Your Service
By Jennifer Dublino | January 28, 2026
Are you valuing the services you provide properly?
Office workers
Article
Get It Together: 7 Quick Ways to Make Your Business More Organized
By Leah Zitter | January 27, 2026
Learn how to make your business more efficient with minimal resources.
Article
Benefits of Using an Order Fulfillment Service
By Sean Peek | January 27, 2026
Outsourcing your order fulfillment can free up time, energy and resources so you can focus on growing your business.
woman working at a table
Article
What is the Pomodoro Technique? A Time Management Method for Business Productivity
By Skye Schooley | January 27, 2026
Master the art of focused work with this proven time-blocking strategy that transforms how entrepreneurs and teams tackle their daily tasks.
Article
10 Successful Businesses You Didn’t Know Were Run By Women
By Jennifer Dublino | January 27, 2026
There are 14.5 million women-owned businesses in the United States. Firms run by female executives employ 12.9 million workers and generate $3.3 trillion annually.
Article
4 Marketing Hacks to Help You Attract the Right Investors
By Jennifer Dublino | January 27, 2026
Create and implement an effective marketing strategy that makes your business more enticing to investors.
marketing meeting
Article
How to Rebrand Your Business
By Stella Morrison | January 26, 2026
No matter the reason, rebranding is a big deal and deciding to rebrand should not be taken lightly.
Article
How to Get a License for Your Construction Company
By Sean Peek | January 23, 2026
Learn what license your construction company needs and how to obtain it.