Ethics is a philosophical term that refers to the study of goodness and right action. Business ethics is the practice of applying ethics to business operations. Business ethics typically involve businesses holding themselves accountable to make business and operational decisions that support fair, transparent, and honest business practices. But business ethics is not one-size-fits-all; read…
Starting a Business
What Is the Gig Economy?
The term “gig economy” describes one-time tasks and services performed for a fee, as opposed to traditional employer-directed jobs performed for a wage. Many people conversationally refer to gig work as “gig jobs,” which can confuse things. Gig work is not a job in the traditional sense. Gig workers are independent contractors, not employees. Most…
What Is a B Corp & How to Become One
A B Corp, or Benefit Corporation, is a for-profit company that has received certification from B Lab for upholding high standards in terms of ethics and environmental and social impact in their business operations. Basically, B Corps are companies with a conscience or a commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR). Registering your business as a…
What Is a Startup & How Do You Launch One?
As the name suggests, startups are businesses that are in their initial stages. A startup begins with one or more individuals forming a business idea to fulfill a market demand with a single, unique product or service. The goal of a startup is to develop and grow into a revenue-generating business with the help of…
What Is a Franchise & How Does It Work? SMB Guide
A franchise is a business model in which a parent company, or licensor, grants permission to a licensee to share its business concept. The resulting business, a franchise, helps the licensor expand while retaining control over products, delivery methods, marketing, and concepts. In return, the licensee receives an established product with permission from the franchise…
What Is a Business Model: Key Types & How to Create One
Every aspiring entrepreneur should have a roadmap—a strategy for growing their business from a core idea to a profitable venture. A business model defines an entrepreneur’s overall plan for making a profit, identifying its core product (or service), target market, value proposition, and strategy for sustainability. This guide will introduce you to the basics of…
Best Side Hustle Ideas for 2024
Side hustles are part-time jobs or businesses that you do in addition to your regular job. Nearly half of all Americans work a side hustle, with 30% saying they need the money simply to cover basic costs of living, according to a 2023 survey by Self1. Nonetheless, not all side hustles are about earning a…
Startup Costs Every New Small Business Owner Should Know
Though startup costs can vary from business to business, almost all new businesses will have at least a few expenses, such as getting a business license, setting up a website, and marketing. Some costs of starting a business are not required but are helpful, such as an initial emergency fund or equipment. For the simplest…