Aliza sherman

If the answer to the question "How do I fund my business idea?" were simple, we'd all have businesses. There is no easy answer and almost no single correct answer. But here are the most common options you have - and maybe a few not so common ones.

1. YOP - Your Own Pockets. If you don't have any money in the bank, you may want to think twice about starting a business until you have a little savings tucked away. That said, lots of people took the business plunge without a safety net. Not the most advisable approach, but if you've got a solid plan and unrelenting stick-to-it-edness, you just might make it to the next step. Read More »

As a business writer who specializes in writing about women business owners and the issues they face, and as a woman who has started and run several businesses since 1995, I'm puzzled when I hear women say:

I really want to start a business -- but I have no idea what kind of business to start.

I hate to break it to these women, however, wanting to start a business and having an idea for a business are one and the same for almost every person who becomes an entrepreneur. Read More »

So you have a business idea? How do you know if it is feasible? Where do you begin? Ah, the age-old "starting a business dilemma." Here are some ways to test your idea.

1. Ask your friends and family for their opinions.

This is really your first round of gut-instinct research but nothing more. In the business world, you can't necessarily take the word of friends and family as gospel unless they know business or the industry you are looking to enter. Friends and family aren't really your best gauge of a business idea - but they are usually the easiest group to approach, and by talking about your idea to them, you can hone your business pitch.

2. Ask professors, professionals and mentors.

To get a more unbiased opinion of your business idea, go to the experts. If you don't know any, seek them out. If the experts echo the opinions of your friends and/or family, you may be on to something...or not.

3. Write a business plan.

There are software programs and online templates available for writing a business plan. One example is BPlans.com. You could also turn to your local SBA or SBDC office for assistance or your community college or university for a course in writing business plans. Even check out SCORE where retired professionals consult entrepreneurs for free. Read More »