After years of dreaming, this candy lover worked up the nerve to buy a franchise.

No cash? No problem. Here's how smart entrepreneurs use barter to help save money, create connections and grow their businesses.

With discipline and determination, these four entrepreneurs launched businesses with less than $1,000 each. See how they've grown from those budget beginnings to today's successful companies.

And then take a mile with these low-cost franchise options. With minimal investements, these franchises won't drain your pocketbook.

Stumped by the task of finding the perfect budget-friendly franchise? We've got all the answers you need to do your homework right--and spend your money wisely.

Is a passion for your idea enough to base a business on--or is a hot market opportunity a better guarantee of a sure thing?

We've set up an impressive spread of budget-friendly gadgets to get your mobile office on the road.

Can you take care of baby and business at the same time?

What's the best way to balance your homebased business and your family life? Start by figuring out your style.