Articles

The Pros and Cons of L.A.’s Coming Wage Hike

There’s a big argument going on in California regarding the pay offered by small businesses to their employees. Though many small businesses are struggling to pay their employees the $9-per-hour minimum wage (or slightly more,) Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti wants to increase that minimum wage to more than $13 per hour. The proposed increase…

If Bernanke Can’t Refinance, Are Credit Standards Too Tight?

We all know getting a small business loan can be tricky given the current state of the economy and lending standards, but it looks like Main Street isn’t alone. One doesn’t have to look any farther than former Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke to see the impact of more stringent regulation. The former Fed leader…

The 5 Coolest Small Businesses in New York City

We think all small businesses are “cool”, but these five New York City-based small businesses are bringing it to a whole new level. 1. Aqua: a cycling studio where the stationary bikes are placed within pools so that the water provides resistance. 2. BarBacon: a bar where everything on the menu, to some degree, has…

6 Fall Productivity ‘Hacks’ for Small Businesses

With Halloween, and Thanksgiving right around the corner, its an easy time to get distracted. To keep you focused, we found these six different “productivity hacks” to help both you and your employees get more done during the holiday lead-up. 1. Inspire your workers to get a “full night’s rest” each evening – and get…

This Motivated Senator Wants to Fix the Small Business Loan Gender Gap

Recent studies have shown that woman business owners have a much tougher time obtaining small business financing than their male counterparts…and one motivated Senator is on the job and fighting for change. Maria Cantwell is the chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and she’s made closing this particular “gender gap” a…

Do You Classify Employees as Contractors? You May Need to Stop

Throughout the past decade, many small businesses have saved money by classifying their workers as independent contractors. They do so because an independent contractor – who, by definition, would have more rights to take work elsewhere than a standard employee – doesn’t need to be afforded the same healthcare, and other costs, that a full-time…

Dear Mr. President: Small Business Owners Have Something to Say

Small business owners are often referred to as community leaders – and it’s not just because their businesses serve as important pillars in their town or city. As one recent study from the National Small Business Association illustrates, entrepreneurs are an incredibly politically involved group. In fact, the stats seem to suggest that small business…

Are Millennials More Optimistic Business Owners?

Normally, you hear about “millennial” entrepreneurs creating startup tech companies like Facebook and Twitter. However, new data shows there are more “millennial” Main Street business owners than ever before, and younger small business owners may be even more optimistic – and more likely to hire – than their older counterparts. According to the Spark Business…

1 Essential Tip for Becoming a Better Borrower

We’ve often spoken about the factors that can help you and your business look more attractive to lenders – like having a strong business credit profile. While important, there’s one major factor lenders look at that requires greater attention: cash flow. James Good, of the Small Business Payments Company, explained to Forbes recently that small…

Why It’s Absolutely Okay to Start Planning for Retirement

With small business owners busier than ever before, planning for retirement can often get placed on the backburner. According to a recent article from the Wall Street Journal, many business owners think the eventual sale of their business can entirely fund their retirement. But, it can be especially difficult to place a future value on…

3 Essential Documents Your Business Needs at the Ready

One of the most important – albeit less thrilling – responsibilities business owners need to pay attention to is their paperwork. Although essential when it comes time to pay your taxes in the spring, having your key documents organized and ready is crucial for when you want to access financing. According to The U.S. Small…