Coworking is a simple concept: Entrepreneurs or microbusinesses share office space and equipment. Not only do they save money on leases and maintenance, but they also benefit from a community where they can learn from each other, share skills, and make connections. The concept originated in 2001 and has become a worldwide phenomenon, with many…
About the Author
Blake Stockton
Blake Stockton is a staff writer at Fit Small Business focusing on how to start brick-and-mortar and online businesses. He is a frequent guest lecturer at several undergraduate business and MBA classes at University of North Florida. Prior to joining Fit Small Business, Blake consulted with over 700 small biz owners and assisted with starting and growing their businesses.
As an entrepreneur, Blake has owned multiple online businesses. Now, he creates online courses that teach local marketing strategies. As a creator, Blake enjoys creating YouTube videos that teach biz owners the latest local marketing and business strategies.
When Blake isn't writing, he is spending time with family, performing improv and sketch comedy, and doing outdoor activities.
Six Best Virtual Office Companies
Virtual offices give you the legitimacy of a physical address without having the expense of leasing or staff. It’s an excellent option for foreign businesses needing a presence in the United States (or vice versa). It’s also a great option for online or at-home businesses needing the prestige of an office address. Virtual offices provide…
How Much Does It Cost to Start a Business?
Building a new company is not cheap, but it may not be as expensive as you think. The pandemic has had a severe impact on the economy, which has resulted in a larger pool of qualified workers looking for jobs, lower advertising rates, cheaper real estate, and less competition. Average Startup Costs for Businesses It’s…
6 Best Business Plan Writing Services
A well-written, well-researched business plan is vital to the success of a new business or venture. It can attract investors and help you get a bank loan. Not every businessperson has the time or expertise to craft a winning business plan. Fortunately, there are companies with decades of experience that will assist. We evaluated several…
17 Best Gig Economy Jobs to Make Money Fast
Think of the gig economy as jobs with short term contracts that you choose to work. These types of gigs vary from delivery and rideshare to design and home care. As of February 2020, there were 6 million more gig economy workers than in the previous decade. And, while COVID-19 has negatively affected some gigs,…
What Is the SBDC & Should You Make an Appointment?
The SBDC (Small Business Development Center) is a business consulting service provided by the government. It offers no-cost consulting and low-cost training to current and aspiring business owners. The consulting topics vary depending on the center and background of the consultants. Every business owner should make an appointment to learn more about your local center…
23 Best Free Business Software Solutions for 2021
Free business software helps your company save money and become efficient. You can use free business tools to do accounting, accept payments, and pay employees. To evaluate and rank this kind of software, we analyzed features, overall quality, online user reviews, and our personal experience with the tools. Below is our list of 23 of…
28 Home-Based Business Ideas for 2021
Home business ideas are on the minds of many people trying to start a full-time or side business during COVID-19. Fortunately, with new technology and software, the opportunities to create a low-cost at home business has never been easier. Online platforms such as , , and help connect people looking for products and services with…
IncFile vs LegalZoom: What’s Best in 2021?
IncFile and LegalZoom are online legal services that help you start and operate your business. They differ in pricing and the number of services offered. IncFile has lower pricing to form a business—no cost plus state fees. However, LegalZoom provides a more extensive selection of legal services such as attorney advice and IP. When to…
SWOT Analysis for Your Small Business in 5 Easy Steps
A SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis is an exercise to help you make a business decision. The decision could be for a simple endeavor: adding a new product—or more complex like starting a business. You may choose to do a SWOT analysis on your own. However, we recommend doing it with others to get…
How To Set up an LLC With LegalZoom – Step by Step
LegalZoom is an online legal service that assists you with the LLC (limited liability company) registration process. While you can register your LLC yourself through the designated state website, many business owners choose to have an expert, such as LegalZoom, assist with the process. Throughout LegalZoom’s LLC registration, you may see questions and other products…
11 Best Websites To Find Franchises
Numerous websites help you find franchises—but they are not all the same. Some websites have in-depth reviews, list international franchises, and provide direct support. Other websites may specialize in franchise resales such as BizBuySale and BusinessBroker.net. Here are the 11 best websites to find franchises: 1. Franchise Business Review Locations: USA-only Offer franchise resales: No…