Microsoft has three opportunities for you to learn entrepreneurial skills and possibly win $100,000 in computer products. First, check out Microsoft's second Small Business Show, airing Thursday, January 24 at 11 a.m. PST. The show features interviews with successful small-business owners, tips and inspirational advice to keep your business growing.

After brushing up on business tips, you'll be ready to enter Microsoft's Total Technology Makeover contest. Register by February 15 to have a shot at winning $100,000 in hardware, software and services from Microsoft and Dell.

Lastly, check out Microsoft's Small Business Summit, taking place March 24 to 27, 2008. It's a free, four-day online event offering biz owners tips on how to feel comfortable wearing many hats as an entrepreneur. Free registration is now open.

Rising gas prices are having a widespread effect on consumers across the U.S. That's according to a new Nielsen Company study, mentioned in this MediaPostPublications article. According to the study, 49 percent of U.S. consumers are reducing their spending because of high gas prices. As a result, 70 percent of consumers are making car trips count by combining shopping trips and errands. 41 percent are eating out less and 30 percent say they're staying home more often. "Manufacturers and retailers need to be alert to the fact that consumers are looking to save by altering where they shop, how they shop and what products and brands they buy," said Todd Hale, senior VP of Consumer Shopping & Insights. "Value, convenience and competitive pricing will be more important than ever in the year ahead."

Specifically, Hale said manufacturers and retailers should look for growth in at-home meal solutions and at-work meals. Also, Hale says research shows a jump in online shopping. According to Hale, manufacturers and retailers should "step up to their 'direct-to-consumer' efforts and utilize the internet to communicate directly with consumers in 2008."

Starbucks has never been known for cheap coffee--that is, until now. Starbucks Corp. is testing $1 coffee and free refills in its hometown of Seattle. The smaller, "short" cup will sell for $1 and free refills will be offered for brewed coffee. In a statement, the company said, "This test is not indicative of any new business strategy." Starbucks won't comment on specifics of the test campaigns until a final decision is made. However, news of the testing spread just after McDonald's announced the addition of coffee bars to locations across the country. In an effort to combat competition from fast-food rivals and consumer-spending worries, Starbucks reshuffled the company several weeks ago by bringing Howard Schultz back as the company's CEO. The coffee giant also said it would be closing underperforming stores and focusing on international growth.