Cover Story
Cyber CashThe sure thing that wasn't: As the initial frenzy subsides, the Internet's investment-raising potential is re-evaluated. Yes, the capital is out there-but only if you know where (and how) to look.
Features
Schizophrenic NationThey're healthy; they're indulgent. They're cynical; they're hopeful. They're having fun; they're working like maniacs. Are today's consumers nuts--or just trying to have it all?
5 Best Customer Service IdeasDon't do business without them.
Future SpeakThink demassification. Figure out how to deliver. In the future that prognosticators Alvin and Heidi Toffler foresee, a whole lot of entrepreneurial opportunities await.
High HopesSmall high-tech entrepreneurs express even more optimism than their big-business counterparts. So what does David know that Goliath doesn't?
Your So-Called LifeThe overachieving entrepreneur's guide to making time for a real life.
Columns
Business BuzzBlame It On RioSouth America rises again.
Columns ArticleBright Lights, Big CitiesUrban renewal spurs a return to city living nationwide.
Spinning TalesStory time is back--and we're not kidding.
Global SmartsHitting The SpotTo increase global sales, tap cultural niches.
PulseNo Harm Done?A proposed OSHA rule could create business hazards in more ways than one.
Rising StarsDynamic DuosWhen friends are the perfect blend in business.
Travel SmartsVirtual TripsTravel sites make life on the road a little easier.
FYI
Beating The OddsSoft SellHow two brothers with an idea for a better tissue got in the game with the big boys--and didn't get flushed.
Bright IdeasBuying TimeHave a great idea, but you're not quite ready for a patent? A provisional patent protects your rights--and ''holds your place'' in the Patent Office's line.
Bulletin BoardHelp Is On The WayResources for entrepreneurs
Trade ShowsTrade ShowsMark your calendar.
Management
Cutting EdgeElementary, My Dear WatsonIt's an air-tight case: Staging business-related mystery events proves positive!
Family BusinessTheory of Un-RelativityHow to keep nonfamily managers happy in order to grow your business.
InsuranceYear In ReviewWhy examining your deductibles may lead to significant deductions.
LegalHandle With CareOffice temps--what you need to know about the legal rights of these fleeting employees.
Management SmartsFathers FigureDon't forget men when setting work/family policies for your business.
Staff SmartsTo The RescueAlways stepping in to save the day? Stop doing your employees' work before it's too late!
Your BusinessYou've Got MailWhat shipping and handling can do for your business.
Marketing
Advertising WorkshopWhat's In A Name?It depends. If your company's name doesn't describe the product or service you provide, it shouldn't be the focus of your advertising.
Marketing SmartsDog GoneTeaching an old product new tricks.
Sales SuccessSomething To ProveAre you giving customers something your competitors can't? Pushing your extra value could put you on top.
Tips and TacticsBrought To You By ...Getting hip to sponsorship
Money
Fund SmartsFood, Glorious Food!If you love it, why not invest in it?
Money SmartsClose To HomeCommunity lenders serve as a vital source of funding for nontraditional borrowers.
Raising MoneyWhat's It Worth?If there's value in your inventory or receivables, you may be able to borrow against it to help fund the growth of your business.
Tax TalkExtra CreditSearching for more tax savings? An ounce of credit can be worth a pound of deductions.
Opportunity Spotlight
Franchise NewsYour DrawA greeting card opportunity that lets you deal your own hand.
Opportunity ArticleEqual-Access SuccessFranchisee finds disabled staff works out well.
What's NewBagels and stamps, please.
Bagging The Sack LunchFranchising reinvents the school lunch.
Read the Fine Print... or you could get screwed.
Redesigning A Classic. . . but the mug is as frosty as ever.
Getting AnswersDon't let a franchisor's decision not to disclose earnings figures discourage you. There are ways to find out what you need to know.
Good FortuneDiary of a start-up: from idea to fruition.
(E)mail-order EducationCourse one: Becoming a restaurateur.
Tune In Or Miss OutStart-up videos to get your business going.
What Price Success?Your prices can ensure your prosperity or doom you to failure. Choose them wisely.
Opportunity InsiderBreaking InProgram helps African-Americans become franchisors.
Tech
Buyer's GuidePower PlayWhen the lights go out, make sure your computer is protected.
ConnectionsWireless WanderingYou are now free to move around your company.
Net ProfitsDelivering the GoodsYour Web site gets tons of orders, but how do you fill them? Don't go it alone--outsourcing makes fulfillment and distribution simpler and more efficient.
Tech SmartsTop SecretsThe newest way to keep trespassers off your intellectual property.
ToolsIs this thing on?State-of-the-art tools.
Web SmartsPrivate EyesProfessional Web researchers, auto-responders, virus hoaxes.