You may want to register to access all that these website have to offer.
Small Business Association - www.sba.gov Through its many field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations, SBA provides a variety of services throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, the U. S. Virgin Islands and Guam. Additionally its website offers a great deal for the aspiring entrepreneur.
S.C.O.R.E. - www.score.org and www.score.org/women are wonderful resources. This program is sponsored by the SBA and usually delivered through your local Chamber of Commerce.
Entrepreneur.com - www.entrepreneur.com
Entrepreneur Magazine has been helping would be startups for decades. In the 21st century a wealth of information is available on their website as well. In addition they have over 50 business start up guides that are quite comprehensive at their other link http://www.smallbizbooks.com/
Businessweek Magazine - www.businessweek.com/small-business/ is another great magazine to internet resource that should not be overlooked. I say that because I don't want you to overlook the printed word. You will need constant encouragement as you delve into your small business.
Black Enterprise Magazine - www.blackenterprise.com. BETA Targeting financially up and coming African Americans, this msgazine and website are filled with ideas, case studies and useful tips.
Over and over I read that 95% of start ups fail. We need to redefine failure I think. When a person changes jobs for a better opportunity we don't say that they failed or that the job failed. When a business provides years of strong income only to eventually lose its steam, did it really fail? If a business person put her kids tthrough college and then lose its profitability causing the birth of a new entity is that bad?
If your head is spinning, hang in there. Evaluate your need, your risk tolerance, your situation and your cabilities and decide your course of action. Perhaps a franchise is a viable option for you. Franchises come with business systems that address some of the issues that cause businesses to fail. You can find more information at sites like business.com and www.bizbuysell.com to buy a business. To often these options are explored when income is despearately needed. Still, these are but a few options for your consideration. If time or money are issues you may want to explore the "harebrained" ideas on the home page. They are low or no cost to speak of and profitability can be immediate. There are hundreds of others as well. If you'd like more information leave a comment. Good luck and be in touch.
