Business Plan Help Guides

When completing your articles of incorporation you will need to indicate a unique name for your business. The name should not lead consumers to confuse your business with another business already in existence, especially if that business operates in the same region or industry in which you plan to conduct business. Best practice is to shortlist your...

Say the name Walt Disney and almost everyone today will recognize it. On July 17, 1955, his dream of owning his own amusement park came true when Disneyland in Anaheim opened its doors for business. During his lifetime, Disney won 22 Academy Awards for his animated films. Currently, his production company has won 32 Oscars and been nominated for 59....

Once you get the most common business licenses, including your occupational license, you need to look at other permits and licenses you may need for your specific business. Certain types of businesses will need more licenses and permits. In the excitement and stress of setting up a business, it is easy to forget one of the many licenses and permits...

According to the Conway Center for Family Business, the majority of United States businesses are family owned; upwards of 80 percent of businesses are family based. Even big businesses like Ford, Marriot, and Walmart are family held. These family-based businesses do more than just keep everyone employed and prospering; they also account for about 60...

Do you think you need a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) to protect your business ideas? Do you or a business partner want one in place before you team up? You may find that not everyone is excited about or willing to sign an NDA. To understand why, you need to understand how NDAs work along with what happens if someone violates an NDA. What Is a Non-...

You have probably heard about using a will or other estate planning tool to protect your family, but what about your business? Small businesses rely heavily on their owners, and the unexpected death of a business partner could leave a key role unfilled. Without a succession plan in place stating who should take over, the business may be at risk of c...

If you are a business owner, or planning on starting a new business, then at some time during the life of your business you will likely need a loan. Whether the funds are needed to pay for your startup costs, to finance an expansion of your business, invest in inventory, buy new equipment, or for any other reason, there are many options for you. Vie...

Starting your own business can be exciting and deeply gratifying, but it is also rife with challenges—including numerous legal forms. Preparation is critical; without understanding the complications that lie ahead, it is easy to go about the process of business formation in the wrong order. Follow these steps to ensure you have a smooth and easy pro...

Technology now impacts all aspects of our lives. It should come as no surprise that technology has also had a positive impact on business. In fact, there are many technologies that have already changed the face of business as well as some that......

Real estate can be a great investment if you plan it correctly. Since the housing market bust in 2008, investors have been wary of starting back up in real estate, but home prices have made a significant recovery since then. Nonetheless, the......