The Entrepreneur S Information Sourcebook

Includes information on characteristics of an entrepreneur, NAICS, Where to find sample business plans, Types of franchises, Advantages and disadvantages of franchises, Marketing plans, market research, writing bids and proposals, SWOT analysis, etc.

For 21st-century entrepreneurs, this book provides the practical guidance they need to overcome the often intimidating challenges of starting, organizing, and running a new business effectively and efficiently. The economic downturn has many individuals considering going into business for themselves, rather than relying on an employer for their income. Unfortunately, according to data from the Small Business Administration, the odds of long-term success are against them: 69 percent of businesses do not last past seven years and 56 percent fail in less than four. This book provides entrepreneurs with a comprehensive guide to the resources they need or will likely want to consult when starting a small business—and in order to stay profitable over the long run. The Entrepreneur's Information Sourcebook: Charting the Path to Small Business Success, Second Edition provides the expert guidance and up-to-date print and web resources an entrepreneur may need to make his business thrive and grow, from inception and information gathering, to raising capital, to marketing methods and human resource concerns. Nearly half of the resources in this newly updated book are new, and the essays have also been updated to reflect current business practices. This book is an essential tool that provides quick and easy access to the information every small business owner needs.

Designed to facilitate the start-up, development and growth of specific small businesses, as well as similar listings for general small business topics. Entries are provided on a state-by-state basis; also included are relevant U.S. federal government agencies and branch offices.

This title helps small and medium-sized enterprises discover the advantages and disadvantages of international business and plan their entry or expansion strategies. In an age where globalizing a business has gone from an innovation to an imperative, how can entrepreneurs make sure their small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are set up for maximum worldwide reach from the very beginning? Going Global: An Informational Sourcebook for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses is an extraordinary resource that points the way to a wealth of available print and web resources for helping SME owners research their international sales potential. Going Global offers separate chapters on such critical topics as how to do a business plan, how to analyze the competition and the market, how to find foreign customers, how to set up an international business, how to manage a global business, and how to use the Internet to its fullest. No matter what stage of entering international trade a company is in, its owners, managers, and stakeholders will be able to quickly and easily find the information and expertise they need to compete in a world-based economy.

The essential resources you need for solo business successThis handy, one-stop reference is your ticket to more than 1,200 business resources--each designed to help make your solo venture a smashing success. From professional organizations and government agencies to magazines, videos, and more, it gives you the lowdown on where to turn and whom to ask for expert advice, guidance, and support. This thoroughly revised Second Edition includes a wealth of new material highlighted by expanded listings of Internet resources, Web site addresses, small business associations, and publications, as well as top educational opportunities for independent entrepreneurs. This invaluable resource will show you how to: Master new business skills Access free and low-cost services Establish valuable professional contacts Tap into technology resources Locate quality business books and newsletters, tapes, and networks Track down special supplies Market and advertise effectively Keep your business fresh, exciting, and profitable. Companion to the updated edition of the bestselling Working Solo

"Would-be entrepreneurs and their advisors will find fewer better investments than this publication." Financial Times. "An excellent book, a veritable survival Baedeker." Guardian. "An exhaustive reference book." Money Mail. "A mightily impressive undertaking which we cannot recommend highly enough." Mind Your Own Business. "Provides a way through the maze of information." Financial Guardian. Would you like to escape the daily grind? Escape having to work for someone else? Would you like to be in charge of your own destiny? To start your very own business? Whether it's just a fanciful dream or the bullet has already been bitten, you will need and want guidance on how to turn the business of your dreams into reality. In its 6th edition, The Complete Small Business Guide provides the next wave of entrepreneurs and small business owners with a one-stop resource of vital business information. It contains invaluable information on how and where to start, with advice on all the pitfalls, timing and how to create a business plan. It deals with the legal, financial and practical aspects of raising capital, employing and training yourself and your staff, youth opportunities, marketing and protecting your ideas, VAT, tax, new technology and starting up overseas. It offers sources of direct help, with extensive address lists. It is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know to start, survive and succeed in business. Join the thousands of others who have used The Complete Small Business Guide to fulfil their start-up dreams. It's the complete resource to help you create your own business.