Cover Story
Go for the GoldThink venture capital is only for the high-tech crowd? Think again. Your low-tech company might be just what VCs are looking for.
Features
New GrowthAfter a long winter, VC funding is beginning to bloom again.
Be Your Own Boss
Be Your Own Boss FeaturesExecutive DecisionCorporate execs are jumping into franchise ownership and experiencing a whole new side of business.
"You're Fired!"It may be one of the worst things to ever happen to you--but it could also be the best chance you'll ever have to become your own boss.
Biz 101Licensee, License DoIs your business ready for the boost that comes from licensing?
Real WinnersThese long shots overcame the odds and emerged triumphant.
Forgo the Fund?You're risking your retirement, but if you believe in your startup you can fund it with your 401(k).
Dream On!A booming industry built around a good night's rest is fulfilling many entrepreneurs' sweet dreams.
Biz UProjecting SuccessCreating a business as your class project can earn you success inside and outside school walls.
InnovationsTool TimeHow one entrepreneur built a better screwdriver--and used smart networking to get it into Sears stores nationwide
OpportunitiesLookin' GoodThis couple knows image is everything and helps their clients look great.
What's New 07/05Teach the children well
The Whole PackageGiving back to the community is part of these postal franchisees' code.
Smart IdeasSmart Ideas 07/05Pet manikins, celebrity access and more
Success CoachProjecting Yourself as a ChampionEarn respect by projecting an image of yourself that people take seriously.
What's Your Problem?The Entrepreneurial EdgeJust because you're not an entrepreneur at heart, doesn't mean you can't have a successful business.
Forward
Biz TravelHighs and LowsTravel costs are up, but some companies are giving business travelers a break.
BooksMovin' On UpWant to grow like the pros? This book shows you what to do--and what not to do.
Capitol IssuesBill of Health?New legislation may cure your health insurance pains.
Forward FeaturesOn the RiseBread businesses are making a post-Atkins comeback.
Pharm's WayLearn how to protect yourself from the latest internet attack.
Cause to CelebrateSome PR firms strive to make a difference by promoting causes as well as products.
The Heat Is On…Or is it? A new study shows how your office temperature affects employee productivity.
Walk This WayWith more funding, SBDCs can lead you in the right direction.
Rural RenewalCan entrepreneurs help boost small-town economies?
Smoke AlarmControversy heats up over off-the-clock regulation.
Scared StraightThe IRS is threatening to conduct more audits. Should you be worried?
Peas in a PodcastSpread the word about your business with this new medium.
Solid PlatformWill the future hold an entrepreneurial president?
Forward SnapshotStir CrazySoup's on for this couple, whose secret startup ingredient was sitcom inspiration.
It FiguresIt Figures 07/05Firing employees for blogs, working outside the office and more
Point/CounterpointTrade CrusadeCan congress help small businesses compete globally?
Rule BreakersThe Beat Goes OnWith each venture, this hip-hop impresario keeps his rhythm.
Tech ToyWork-and-Play StationNow you can use your PlayStation for monkey business and business.
WheelsAt All Costs?It may look like a deal, but calculate the true cost to own first.
WomenWoman On BoardIn the boardroom, there's still plenty of room for women.
In Every Issue
Almost FamousPower HouseMuscling in on fitness chains, this entrepreneur thrives using his body and soul.
Editor's NoteDon't Take This Sitting Down!Small-business legislation needs to move forward, so get out there and do something about it.
FeedbackFeedback 07/05ResourcesResources 07/05Websites, organizations, events and more to grow your business
Lead
Lead BuzzLead Buzz 07/05FACTA explained, pregnancy discrimination and more
Lead SnapshotBuilding ToleranceSpurred by 9/11, this entrepreneur helps workplaces embrace diversity.
LegalE-Mediate NeedsCaught in an e-commerce clash? Use an e-mediator.
Real DealTake It or Leave ItLaying down a final offer can get you what you want.
Smart MovesBartering in BusinessBarter is back in style and spanning the globe. Here's what you need to know to become the master of your exchange.
Staff SmartsThe Truth?Your employees
can handle it, so just communicate with them, already.
Money
Dollar SignsWorking the NetSocial networking sites offer entrepreneurs a chance to connect with investors, potential partners and customers.
FundsThe Small TimeInvesting in small-cap funds can pay off big.
InsuranceYou're Sued!If you have employees, you need EPL coverage.
Money BuzzMoney Buzz 07/05Connect to all potential lenders with only one application.
Money SnapshotWhen the Well Runs DryThis Texas entrepreneur dug deep to replace VC funds he lost unexpectedly.
Personal FinanceLiquid AssetsThinking of investing in wine? A discerning mind is just as important as a discerning palate when considering your options.
Raising MoneyLooking for Investors AbroadLooking for capital? Consider looking abroad. International investors can provide funding--and much more.
Tax TalkChange of Plan?New tax laws require a new look at deferred compensation plans.
Sell
Ad WisdomBorrowing BrillianceA "swipe file" helps you generate good ideas.
FlashWalk the TalkGet others to spread the word about your business.
Net SalesSpill the BeansIf you share free information with potential customers, they're more likely to remember you when it's time to buy.
Retail RegisterSpecial DeliveryDrive sales by offering stellar delivery services.
Sales SuccessSuit YourselfIf you want to make the sale, don't just focus on your product or service--chances are, your customers are more interested in you.
Sell BuzzSell Buzz 07/05Honest marketing, free stuff for small businesses and more
Sell SnapshotUrban CowboysThese trailblazing marketers know how to appeal to young, street-smart buyers.
TacticsSweet RewardsAn effective rewards program keeps customers coming back. Here are 5 essential tips for building your program--and your sales.
Tech
Buyer's GuideIt's Your CallNext-generation cell phones kick mobile technology up a notch.
ConnectionsIt's an E-Mail!Prepare for a new arrival--Eudora e-mail is coming to cell phones.
Digital EdgeFull Speed AheadThe race is on, so soup up your PC's speed with a dual-core processor.
Editor's PicksEditor's Picks 07/05Print jobs and transferring files made easy
GearGear 07/05Share your files with flair
Net ProfitsUsing Blogs to Attract CustomersSetting up a blog, while time-consuming, can be a great way to generate interest about your products and bring visitors to your site.
Tech BuzzTech Buzz 07/05FireFox users beware
Tech SnapshotNext of SkinThis entrepreneur knows there is more than one way to skin a phone.
WirelessGetting CardedSD Wi-Fi cards bring your handheld up to speed.
A Host to ToastHosted e-mail options save you from costly servers.