Category: Business Planning and Structure

What licenses and permits do I need to start a small business?

October 3, 2025 by Bigger Bottom Line

You’ve worked hard to turn your passion into a viable business idea, and you’re ready to take the leap into entrepreneurship. However, before you can officially open your doors, there’s an important step you need to take: obtaining the necessary licenses and permits. It might not be the most exciting part of starting a small business, but failing to secure the proper paperwork can lead to costly fines or even legal troubles down the road.

Identifying and Mitigating Business Risks in Your Plan

October 1, 2025 by Bigger Bottom Line

As a small business owner, you wear many hats and face numerous challenges daily. From managing finances and operations to attracting and retaining customers, the path to success is paved with obstacles that can quickly derail your efforts if not addressed proactively. One critical area that often gets overlooked is risk management – the process of identifying, assessing, and mitigating potential threats to your business’s stability and growth.

Structuring Your Business for Tax Efficiency and Compliance

September 25, 2025 by Bigger Bottom Line

As a small business owner, you wear many hats – from managing day-to-day operations to strategizing for growth. Amidst this juggling act, it’s easy to overlook the importance of properly structuring your business for tax efficiency and compliance. However, getting it right from the start can have a profound impact on your long-term success.

What are the 7 steps to create a business plan?

September 25, 2025 by Bigger Bottom Line

Struggling to put together a solid business plan? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many entrepreneurs find themselves lost in the maze of market research, financial projections, and strategic planning. But fear not! We’re here to guide you through the process, one step at a time.

Leveraging Technology and Digital Transformation in Your Business Plan

September 19, 2025 by Bigger Bottom Line

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, technology has become an indispensable tool for success. The rise of digital transformation has reshaped the way companies operate, interact with customers, and compete in the market. For small business owners, embracing this digital shift is no longer just an option – it’s a necessity for survival and growth.

What is considered a small business?

September 3, 2025August 24, 2025 by Bigger Bottom Line

Are you a small business owner trying to figure out if your venture qualifies as a “small business”? It’s a tricky question with no one-size-fits-all answer, but understanding the criteria can help you take advantage of valuable resources and support.

What is the SBA definition of a small business?

July 15, 2025June 27, 2025 by Bigger Bottom Line

As a small business owner, have you ever wondered if your company truly qualifies as a “small business”? With so many different definitions and criteria floating around, it can be confusing to determine where your business stands. Fear not, my friend – we’re about to dive into the official definition according to the Small Business Administration (SBA), the government agency dedicated to supporting and advocating for small businesses across the nation.

Doing Well by Doing Good: The Small Business Guide to Nonprofits and Social Enterprises

July 15, 2025June 26, 2025 by Bigger Bottom Line

Every day, we witness the extraordinary impact that organizations driven by purpose and a commitment to creating positive change can have on our communities and the world around us. From addressing poverty and hunger to promoting education and environmental sustainability, nonprofits and social enterprises are at the forefront of tackling some of society’s most pressing challenges.

What are the 4 stages of business planning?

July 15, 2025June 23, 2025 by Bigger Bottom Line

Are you a small business owner feeling overwhelmed by the thought of creating a business plan? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many entrepreneurs find the idea of planning intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. The truth is, effective business planning is an iterative process that evolves as your business grows. By breaking it down into four key stages, you can create a roadmap that will guide your decision-making and help you achieve your goals.

Crafting a Comprehensive Business Plan: Key Components

July 15, 2025June 8, 2025 by Bigger Bottom Line

Imagine this scenario: You have a brilliant business idea that you’re confident will be a game-changer in your industry. You’ve done your research, identified a gap in the market, and are ready to pour your heart and soul into making your entrepreneurial dream a reality. However, without a solid business plan, your chances of success are significantly diminished.