Start

Everything that you need to know to start your own business. From business ideas to researching the competition.

Business Ideas

Ready to start a business? We'll help you find the perfect business idea.

Strategy

Dig deep into your business idea to discover opportunities and unexpected roadblocks.

Startup

There's more to being a startup than registering a business. The A-Z guide to getting ready to launch your business.

Latest—

How to Register Your Business Name

Registering your business name helps you avoid running into problems down the road.

How to Start a Real Estate Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn the requirements and fees to officially operate as a real estate agent and the marketing techniques to make your business successful.

How to Conduct a Successful Competitive Analysis

Here are some of the steps to conduct a successful competitive analysis, from researching competitors' online presence to reading customer reviews.

What a “Local” Business Is And How To Market Yourself As One

The definition of a local business is nebulous, but customers intuitively know the difference between a Main Street merchant and a big box retailer.

State of American Business: All Business Is Local

At the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's 2025 State of American Business event, business leaders explored small business trends and the economic importance of local businesses.

Romantic Small Businesses for Valentine's Day

These small businesses lead with love year-round.

How to Apply for a Small Business Loan

Startups and small business owners usually need financing to get going. Here are six types of financing options and how to apply for a loan.

Cash on Delivery: What Is COD?

Cash on delivery (COD) is a method of collecting payment from customers when their orders arrive. Here's what it is and how it works.

Doing Business As: What It Means to Register a DBA

Registering a DBA can give your company a unique identity separate from your personal name and help you enter a new market when the time is right.

How to Start a Small Business at Home

Use these six steps to start and grow a home-based business.