The second of a two-part series on how to start a successful business (or not)… In our first article in this series, we asked you questions to determine if you’re ready to be a business owner. If you think it’s a good fit, then it’s time to think through your idea to make sure it… Read more »
Posts Categorized: Small Business Information
Are You Ready for Business Ownership? Part 1
The first of a two-part series on how to start a business (or maybe not?) Many people are excited by the idea of owning their own business and come to the Maine SBDC wanting to dive right in. We typically hear questions like, “how do I register my business, get the needed licenses, set up… Read more »
Multi-Level Marketing: Too Good To Be True?
“Work from home!” “Earn $1,000 a week working one hour a day!” “Make money while you are on vacation!” Too Good To Be True? Shakes, candles, leggings, vitamins, and makeup are just a few examples of direct sales products marketed as “start your own business” ventures. With promises of top earners winning extravagant vacations and… Read more »
Small Business Saturday Prep
This year Small Business Saturday is November 26, 2022! The day is dedicated to supporting and buying from small local businesses. It’s become a holiday shopping tradition over the past twelve years and continues to grow in both sales and participation. But it takes preparation to make the best of the day! Below you’ll find… Read more »
Partnership Pitfalls: Part 2
Partnership Pitfalls: When everyone is in charge, no one is in charge. So… you and your best friend, brother, or spouse want to go into business together? Of course, you agree on everything right now, but what happens when you don’t? In many cases being realistic and pragmatic can be the kindest, most loving thing… Read more »
Partnership Pitfalls: Part 1
Partnership Pitfalls So… you and your best friend, brother, or spouse want to go into business together? Of course, you agree on everything right now, but what happens when you don’t? In many cases being realistic and pragmatic can be the kindest, most loving thing you can do for your partner and yourself. Our very… Read more »
Big Changes to the 1099-K: Is your small business ready?
By Tina Oddleifson If your small business receives income via third-party settlement processors like PayPal, Venmo, and CashApp, you may be in for a surprise. The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) passed by Congress in 2021, provided pandemic relief to many small businesses. It also included a bill that significantly changed reporting requirements for third-party… Read more »
Recruiting – Thinking Outside The Box
With the summer season right around the corner, you’ve probably already started thinking about different recruitment techniques for your company. In the last few years, there’s been an ongoing shift towards focusing on the importance of smart recruitment techniques to improve results and the candidate’s experience. There are many ways to attract talented employees to… Read more »
Minimum Wage Increase in 2022
Get Ready for the Minimum Wage Increase: 3 Practical Tips Minimum wage is increasing to $12.75 on January 1, 2022. (Maine law requires minimum wage adjustments annually based on the cost-of-living index.) Here are some practical tips to help you get ready:
Why Customer Service Matters This Summer
After a trying year, tourists and locals alike are looking forward to enjoying all that Maine has to offer. Thankfully, things are looking up this summer tourism season and Maine is expected to have a bustling summer. As we prepare, we have to keep in mind the individual struggles people have experienced over the past… Read more »