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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
9 Little-Known Ways to Network With Hospitality Industry Insiders
By Jennifer Dublino | July 24, 2025

Making contacts within the hospitality industry can create opportunities for your business. Learn how to start networking effectively.

Article
What Is Commercial Property Insurance? A Complete Guide to Insurance on Commercial Building
By Mark Fairlie | July 24, 2025

Commercial property insurance covers the building and items that you own or lease against such perils as fire, explosions, theft, and vandalism.

Article
What Is a Hold Harmless Agreement?
By Kimberlee Leonard | July 24, 2025

A hold harmless agreement releases a party from the consequences of another's actions. Learn how and when to use a hold harmless agreement in business.

Article
How Color Can Impact Your Restaurant
By Sean Peek | July 23, 2025

Learn how color affects your restaurant's atmosphere and sales.

Article
Office Moves & Business Relocation: How to Move Successfully
By Jennifer Dublino | July 23, 2025

Use an office relocation as an opportunity to streamline and improve operations. Learn how to make your office move a success.

Article
Write Your Way to a Win: Business Proposal 101
By Jennifer Dublino | July 23, 2025

In some industries, writing business proposals is a crucial way to win new clients. Learn how to write a successful business proposal..

Article
A Gamble You Can’t Afford to Lose: Finding the Right Materials for Your Product
By Steve Cartier | July 23, 2025

Learn the crucial steps to finding the best materials for your manufactured products.

Article
International Market Expansion: The Benefits of Global Expansion
By Mark Fairlie | July 23, 2025

Global expansion means expanding your business overseas. Learn the benefits of going global and what steps to take for international market expansion.

businessman talking on a phone in an office setting
Article
What Is Supply Chain Distribution?
By Max Freedman | July 23, 2025

Supply chain distribution is used to balance supply and demand. Learn more about the importance of having a distribution plan for your business.

Article
Make It Memorable: Tips for Creating an Effective Brand Name
By Jennifer Dublino | July 23, 2025

Your brand's name is the foundation for all your future marketing and sales communications. Follow these tips to make it the best possible brand name.

Article
12 Pain Points Entrepreneurs Should Expect and Embrace
By Sean Peek | July 22, 2025

As an entrepreneur, you have to roll with the punches. Learn how to deal with these common pain points of running a business.

Article
Roth IRA Self-Employed Guide: What to Know About Roth IRAs
By Jennifer Dublino | July 22, 2025

This guide explains how self-employed people can make Roth IRA contributions to save for their retirement.

Article
Retirement Funds for the Self-Employed: A Complete Guide
By Donna Fuscaldo | July 22, 2025

How do self-employed people plan for retirement? Here are a few retirement plan options for the solopreneur.

Article
Do I Need Product Liability Insurance?
By David Gargaro | July 22, 2025

Product liability insurance is needed for businesses that make, sell or distribute products. Learn about what it covers and how much it costs.

Article
What Is Professional Liability Insurance?
By David Gargaro | July 22, 2025

An insurance policy that service-related businesses need is professional liability insurance. Learn about what it covers and protects against.

Article
Business Owners’ Guide to Workers’ Compensation
By David Gargaro | July 22, 2025

If your business has employees, nearly every state requires you to have workers' compensation insurance. Learn about what it covers and how much it costs.

Article
How to Identify Industries That Are Ready for Disruption
By Sean Peek | July 21, 2025

Learn how to identify industries that are ready for disruption and which markets are being shaken up.

Article
Why Are Small Businesses So Important? 10 Ways They Empower Communities
By Mark Fairlie | July 18, 2025

Small businesses fuel local economies by creating jobs, fostering innovation, and supporting communities through resilience, adaptability and human connection.

Article
What Is Errors and Omissions Insurance?
By David Gargaro | July 18, 2025

E&O insurance guards your business against lawsuits brought by dissatisfied customers. Find out what it covers and costs, and whether you really need it.

Article
Think Like a Startup, Scale Like an Enterprise: Balancing the Best of Both Worlds
By Mark Fairlie | July 17, 2025

Both startups and enterprises must disrupt and innovate to survive. Learn how thinking like a startup and scaling like an enterprise can help ensure success.

Businesspeople in an office
Article
Why Are So Many Companies Moving to Florida?
By Jennifer Dublino | July 17, 2025

Many established companies of all sizes have decided to make Florida their home. Learn why companies are moving to Florida and how to make the move.

Article
Time Crunch: An Entrepreneur’s Guide to Prioritizing Your Tasks
By Jennifer Post | July 17, 2025

Entrepreneurs often find themselves overburdened with tasks. Learn how to allocate your time and prioritize your tasks.

Article
Car Insurance for Business: A Complete Guide to Commercial Auto Insurance
By Nicole Urbanowicz | July 16, 2025

Commercial auto insurance is critical for businesses that operate vehicles and have employees driving for work purposes. Here is what you need to know.

Article
Young Entrepreneurs: 10 Inspiring Business Owners Under 40
By Sean Peek | July 16, 2025

Check out our list of inspiring entrepreneurs under 40 who have paved the way for themselves and many others with successful businesses.

Article
What Is ERP Software & How Can It Increase Efficiency?
By Jamie Johnson | July 16, 2025

Find out how ERP software can help you efficiently manage the most important operations of your business.

Article
10 Ways to Reduce Operational Costs for Your Small Business
By Jennifer Dublino | July 15, 2025

Because small businesses operate on tight margins, sustaining a healthy profit is critical. Learn how to increase revenue and reduce expenses. 

Article
When Is Auto Insurance Tax Deductible?
By Kimberlee Leonard | July 15, 2025

Auto insurance can be tax deductible when you use your vehicle for business. Learn what you can write off and how to find the best tax strategy for you.

marketing meeting
Article
Songs About Business: These Hit Tracks Have Hidden Lessons for Entrepreneurs
By Mike Berner | July 14, 2025

Entrepreneurs and business owners can learn some valuable lessons from the lyrics of hit songs by Beyoncé, Frank Sinatra and more.

Article
Trademark Examples: Learn From These Trademark Infringement Cases
By Sean Peek | July 14, 2025

You could be committing trademark infringement without knowing it. Learn from these six trademark cases.

Article
Small Business Guide to Energy Conservation
By Jennifer Dublino | July 11, 2025

Conserving energy can help your business save money, reduce its carbon footprint and help the environment. Learn how your business can save energy.