Dec 17th 2007, 14:06

Start Your Own Business

If you'd like to set up your own small business, and especially if you're doing it the first time, you'd need all the help you can get. For starters, one of the best places you can look for assistance is the Small Business Administration (SBA).

The SBA was established by Congress to help and protect and advance the interests of small businesses. While the SBA does not generally offer grants to individuals to start their own businesses, you can participate in SBA's loan programs, wherein the SBA acts as a guarantor for bank loans.

You can also get management, technical, and training assistance. And if you're interested in doing business with the government. The SBA also helps make sure that small businesses get a fair share of government contracts and sales of surplus government property.

As a first step, you can browse the SBA web site (www.sba.gov) for a wealth of information on various business topics, such as creating a sound business plan and obtaining capital and funding. You can also locate an SBA office in your area through the web site.

For more information and assistance, you can call SBA at their toll-free number: 1-800-U-ASK-SBA (1-800-827-5722).

To Do List: - Suggested Links:

1. Increase Your Income:
   Get an online degree with financial aid from the government.
2. ConsolidateYour Bills:
   Student Loans - Credit Card Debts - Refinance Home
3. Get some cash you don’t have to pay back:
   Government has money for almost any worthwhile need.
4. A MasterCard or Visa, even if your credit is not good
   A real line of credit