Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION
BARTER
One of the world’s oldest forms of commerce is advocated in its modern form. Barter’s advantages and how it works.
PUBLICITY
Achieved at no or minimal cost, publicity can be more credible than paid advertising which usually is too expensive for start-up and fledging companies. How to get this publicity.
INTERNET REVOLUTION
This fast changing, growing, and inexpensive medium can assist small business reach their goals and better compete with large companies.
FREE ADVERTISING
How to get ads in all forms of media. The ads will look just like paid for ones.
SELLING
Who should sell, how to sell, and sales’ interaction with other company disciplines.
SPECIAL OFFERS TO KEY CUSTOMERS
No-cost strategies to acquire and/or grow key customers and to obtain favorable treatment in areas of importance to you.
MENTORS
Importance of having a good mentor in the ultimate success of a company. Where and how to find and interact with them.
BUSINESS INCUBATORS
Provide a business support process for start-up and fledgling companies that includes a physical home, management guidance, technical assistance, basic business services, and mentoring.
UNIVERSITIES
An untapped asset for small businesses, universities can help you in building your company with no or minimal costs.
RELATIONSHIPS AND TRUST
Finding and developing relationships to advance your business. Better Networking.
PRICING FOR PROFIT
Maximizing your profits and thus increasing cash are discussed in depth through correct pricing. All the elements that should be considered and by whom are explored.
FACTORS
Loan or advance money to a company, regardless of their credit rating. The pros and cons of their use and how to find them.
SUPPLIERS
Can be a valuable extension of your company and an important part of your sustainability and growth. What they can do for you and how you should treat them.
TESTING THE WATERS
Testing the feasibility of your new product or service before you expend valuable resources in its pursuit. This process will also aid in risk reduction.
LICENSING
Can give a company instant credibility and business. Not all licenses require large initial expenditures. Ideas on finding and utilizing them, their advantages, questions to ask in exploring them, and contractual issues to consider.
FRANCHISING
Is a type of business that lies somewhere between buying a business and starting your own. The pros and cons of franchising plus how to find appropriate ones.
CONVERTING FIXED COSTS TO VARIABLE COSTS
Is an effective strategy to reduce overhead, conserve cash, and reduce risks. The different ways to accomplish this.
OUTSOURCING
An important strategy, especially for undercapitalized businesses to grow, reduce risk, and offer more to your customers in terms of quality, value, and support. The negatives are refuted.
GOVERNMENT HELP
Government agencies to assist start-up and existing small businesses to succeed. They are free and open to everyone. Agencies covered are SBA, SCORE, SBDC, PTAC, U.S. CUSTOMS, DEPARTMENT of COMMMERCE, MBDA, UBOP, WBC, and U.S. EMBASSIES.
IN PERSPECTIVE
Important factors for entrepreneurial success are explored.
Appendix 1 — R&R Case Study
Bootstrap tips utilized in case
Appendix 2 —Tips for Getting Appointments
Appendix 3 — Cash Flow Statement
Appendix 4 — Website Recommendations