Off the Ground Blog
Business without borders: Import/Export
Buying and selling on international markets allows small business to grow beyond regional or domestic limitations. The SBA Import/Export guide can help get your research and planning started if you're thinking about doing business in foreign markets.
BC's Minimum wage set to rise - What does it mean to start-ups?
With the minimum wage in BC set to rise from $8.00/hour to $10.25/hour by early 2012, many are asking the question: what does this mean to small business owners who will now be expected to bear this increased cost?
Fair Financing for Female Entrepreneurs?
Building on an Oct 2010 report by the SME Financing Data Initiative, Globe & Mail reporter Marjo Johne examines the issues of gender discrimination towards female entrepreneurs seeking business financing. From the article:
The Value of a Business Logo
Google, IBM, Apple, Microsoft & Coca-Cola - these are the 5 most valuable global brands for 2010. What do all of these brands have in common? Iconic imaging and powerful visual branding. If you're trying to build a brand for your small business - or just a consistent marketing image, it's worth investing in a logo.
Fastest Growing Small Business Sectors in BC
In recent years of economic uncertainty, certain sectors/industries have been hit harder than others. Understanding the changing landscape of BC small business can help you decide where the best opportunities are - as well as business sectors to avoid.
Records Management for Small Business
Paperwork, files, receipts, contracts, correspondence - without a proper records management strategy business owners are likely to find themselves losing the battle against documentation. One of the most important tasks that entrepreneurs face, is how to manage the records of their business.
Hard to Find Info for Start-ups - Poll Results
'What type of Information is Difficult to Find?' - was a 3-month long running poll question on the SBA homepage - and the results are in!
Joining a Business Association
There is strength in numbers - no question, and joining a business / industry association is a great way to tap into the skills, knowledge and economic advantages that larger groups may hold. With very few exceptions, most industries (major & minor) have national/provincial/regional associations. Most associations work toward common goals such as:
