Cover Story
Go for the GoldMaybe you've planned it since day one, or maybe you've taken years to decide. Now that the time has come to sell your business, find out what you can do to make sure you can come out on top.
Features
Curtain CallYou've laughed, you've cried, you've moved on after selling your business. Or have you? If you're wondering what's next, take a look at what these entrepreneurs are doing now--and get read for your own encore performance.
A World of DifferenceFor these entrepreneurs, social responsibility isn't just part of their PR campaigns--it's the essence of their businesses. And they're changing the world for the better, one community at a time.
Best PracticesEntrepreneurship may not be a part of the curriculum at professional schools, but today, doctors, lawyers and other professionals are learning to think like entrepreneurs--and build better businesses in the process.
Be Your Own Boss
Be Your Own Boss FeaturesSweet and LowWith 300-plus franchises you can buy for less than $50,000, you can satisfy your craving for a big-name franchise without spending all your dough.
Beyond the Big IdeaYou've got a million-dollar idea; now all you need is a strategy to make it marketable. These inventors brought their ideas to life--and hit it big. Find out how they made it happen.
Biz 101The New YouWhen customers ask for more, change your business focus without losing it.
Paternal InstinctsHave a feeling that marketing to dads is a smart move? You're right on the money.
We Have LiftoffOur "Biz 101" tech makeover winner launches her new Web site.
Howdy, PartnerStarting a business with someone you met online? It's not as scary--or as unusual--as you think.
Tech It OutResources for high-tech entrepreneurs
InnovationsBreath of Fresh AirHow do you sell buyers on an invention that creates a new product category?
OpportunitiesWhat's New 10/04Super bowl sundae
Shock ValueA belief in the power of batteries charged this couple up for franchise ownership.
No Free LunchHard work is a key ingredient for the owners of four Togo's stores.
Smart IdeasSmart Ideas 10/04Wedding insurance, massage chairs and more
Success CoachTake No for an AnswerDon't dismiss naysayers--ask for advice, and turn it into a tool for success.
What's Your Problem?Change of LocationWill a new neighborhood be a good market for your business?
In Every Issue
Almost FamousRing BearersSome would-be grooms need a little direction in finding the perfect diamond. Here come the guides.
Editor's NoteA Matter of OpinionsFeedbackFeedback 10/04Letters from our readers
ResourcesResources 10/04Web sites, organizations, events and more to grow your business
Management
LegalLaw TalentLawyers have more to offer than just legal advice--they can also bring important skills to your staff.
Management BuzzManagement Buzz 10/04Business plans and game plans, define your brand and more
Real DealHead to HeadHow to deal with difficult opponents
Smart MovesWorking ITHave you been putting off tech spending? Now's the time to get high-tech equipment at low prices.
Staff SmartsNo Train, No Gain?You've invested a lot in training your employees, so see if you're getting what you paid for.
Marketing
A+ AdsFunny BusinessNo ifs, ands or buts: playful visuals, paired with copy promoting your selling points, add up to a standout advertisement.
Ask the ExpertMan PowerTips to get male shoppers spending in your store
Marketing BuzzMarketing Buzz 10/04Marketing law basics, banning pop-up ads and more
Net SalesIt's All About ResultsIs pay-for-performance online marketing right for your business?
Retail RegisterScare TacticsCreative ways to profit from Halloween
Sales ForceTraining DayNeed a sales trainer to whip your staff into shape? Here's how to find a winning coach.
Sales SuccessEye to EyeIf you rely solely on the phone and e-mail to build business relationships, you're missing the boat. Learn why "face time" is critical to your success.
TacticsGet SmartyNew college grads spend more than $40 billion a year getting equipped for adult life. Here's how to grab your share.
Money
Dollar SignsMinority ReportVC firms are becoming more diverse--but does that mean more funding for minority-owned businesses?
FundsIn the BalanceA good blend scales down this fund's risk.
InsuranceTake NoteDocument incidents now, and avoid lawsuits later.
Money BuzzMoney Buzz 10/04The state of family funds, Check 21 and more
Personal FinanceAt Your Finger TIPSGet a hold on high inflation rates with treasury inflation-protected securities.
Raising MoneyAn Acquired TasteBefore you buy that business you're craving, consider seller financing to sweeten the deal.
Tax TalkPapers AwayTax records weighing you down? Switch to electronic storage.
Smarts
Biz TravelOn the FlyTry these money-saving tricks for last-minute travel plans.
BooksThink AheadSpot the "disruptive innovations" that can make or break your business success.
Capitol IssuesWrong! Try AgainIt's back to square one for the SBA and its small-business size standards.
It FiguresIt Figures 10/04Living arrangements, overseas outsourcing and more
Point/CounterpointRegulation NationHow can government ease the regulatory burdens that are crushing entrepreneurs?
Smarts FeaturesLeap of FaithTake it from those who've done it--going public will change your business.
Wireless MetropolisThe Big Apple's wireless backup project aims to keep the city online, no matter what.
Moving OnEx-Apprentices find life after "The Donald" is all business.
Taking FlightAngel investors are flocking together to your advantage.
Tech and the CityWhat cities are rising fast on the high-tech horizon? We take a look at some best bets.
Special OppsU.S. entrepreneurs are serving others in Iraq--and making a living in the process.
Private MattersRetail alert: Keep an eye on new RFID privacy legislation.
Time's UpNew laws tell you who gets overtime--and who doesn't.
Carb GameHigh-carb food sellers strike back with a new strategy in the low-carb wars.
SnapshotSnapshot 10/04Cindy Kauanui, 46, founder of Jet Set Management in La Jolla, California
Tech ToyTV to GoGet your local programming wherever you travel
WheelsKeep On Truckin'These powerful trucks help keep your business going.
WomenI Think I'll PassDo women have a tougher time delegating tasks?
Tech
Buyer's GuideScreen TestTime for a monitor upgrade? Consider the benefits of going with a flat-panel display.
ConnectionsCalling the ShotsIs a VoIP telephone system in your company's future? Here's how to find out--without breaking the bank.
Digital EdgeGet Lost!While you still can, that is. Global positioning systems could make lost productivity a thing of the past.
Hot DisksHot Disks 10/04Microsoft for Mac, no-download publishing graphics and more
Net Profits'Tis the SeasonIt's never too early to get prepared for the holiday shopping season. Learn what you need to do today.
Tech BuzzTech Buzz 10/04Handheld scanners, pirated software and more
WirelessSharper ImageSmartphones are the brainier mobile choice.
Get the Message?SMS technology could bring mobile commerce within your reach.