Startup

  • How to get inventory when you're low on cash

    For retailers that don't want the overhead of stockpiling merchandise, drop shipping can be a cost-saving option.

    Mike, Queens, NY
    I started a home-based wholesaling business six months ago and got four credit cards totaling $18,000. I was scammed out of $10,000 and invested another $4,000 into a Web site and advertising. Now my cards are almost maxed out, and I need the cash or credit to purchase merchandise. Business people tell MORE

    Mar 27, 2009 11:11 AM ET
  • Finding the best customers for your business

    Some clients aren't worth the headaches. Advance vetting and precautions can spare you the pain.

    I started a concierge service on a tight budget. I am not looking to conquer the world in a day. I would like to attract the "right" customer and grow the business within my means. What would be the best methods to find that "right" customer?

    Mar 17, 2009 10:18 AM ET
  • How to ditch bad business partners

    Planning ahead is your best bet for a successful resolution if a business deal turns toxic.

    Amy, Wheeling, W.V.
    I formed an LLC with two other partners. They are a couple. One owns 33%, the other 34% and I own 33%. We do not have any legal documents drawn up. I want to take the business and get them out. One partner does nothing and still works a full-time job and the MORE

    Feb 26, 2009 5:19 PM ET
  • How to get your product on retailers' shelves

    A good distributor can make or break your product line. Here's how to find the right one.

    Deziree Williams, Sugar Free Baby, Los Angeles
    I have a children's eco-friendly clothing line. We are taking it slow because we are branding our line and are in some ways picky about who we sell to. I have recently been approached by a distributor, but I'm not sure if this is the best way to MORE

    Feb 5, 2009 7:04 PM ET
  • Business grants: Sorting out the scams

    Grants for small companies are almost as rare as unicorns. Here's how to protect yourself against fraud.

    Adriana Matteo, Warwick, R.I.
    I'd like to start a small business and need a grant to start. How do I go about it and who do I need to contact? Everything seems to be a scam, but I know there are grants out there for young women who want to start a business.

    Jan 29, 2009 6:28 PM ET
  • How fashion designers break into boutiques

    We asked the experts and created a step-by-step guide to getting noticed on the fashion scenes.

    Samantha Risto, Risto Designs, New York, NY
    I recently launched a small women's clothing business in New York out of my apartment. I would like to know how I can sell to small retailers and boutiques. Do I just show up at their store with samples in hand or is there an "established" way of doing MORE

    Jan 15, 2009 5:35 PM ET
  • How to get your product on QVC

    If you want to reach a national audience through the home-shopping networks, you'll need mass-manufacturing capabilities and a catchy storyline.

    Mona Kahn, Salt Lake City
    I am a jewelry designer and I want to present my merchandise to a larger audience. How do I get my products on ShopNBC, QVC or similar outlets?

    Jan 4, 2009 11:34 PM ET
  • Patents: When to partner, when to go solo

    Got a brilliant new idea for a patented product? Here's how to get your idea to the market, legally.

    Joseph, Houston, Texas
    I have a business idea that is based on a different application of a patented product already on the market. Is it best to proceed by taking my ideas to the company itself, or pursing them independently while contracting to the original patent holder?

    Dec 15, 2008 9:47 AM ET
  • $400k and a tropical dream

    Our Caribbean experts weigh in on which island is best for an expat's bar biz.

    Edd, Philadelphia, Pa.
    I'm interested in starting a bar or café somewhere in the Caribbean. I have around $400,000 in startup capital and 20 years of experience managing restaurants. I am trying to find the best and easiest island on which to start my business.

    Dec 3, 2008 9:50 AM ET
  • Finding buyers when sales are sluggish

    Getting your products on the market is a first step, but getting them in front of the right potential buyers is essential.

    Callixte Matala, Mac-uisine, Montreal
    A year ago, I started a high-end, stainless-steel kitchen sink distribution company in Montreal. I've recently added bathroom sinks and bathtubs to the line. The sinks are very high end, made of marble and granite, ranging from $600 to $2,500. Cabinet makers and kitchen designers spotlight MORE

    Nov 14, 2008 10:06 AM ET
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