Getting Started Guides

The City of St. Paul has announced that applications for its 2025 Neighborhood STAR grant program will open on Monday, March 31. The program offers grants to support capital improvement projects that enhance the vitality, cultural diversity, and economic prosperity of neighborhoods across the city. Eligible businesses and organizations must be located in or conducting business within St. Paul and use the funds for permanent capital improvements with a projected lifespan of at least seven years. Most grant awards are $50,000 or less. All applications must be submitted online through ZoomGrants by 4 p.m. on Friday, May 2. To qualify for consideration, applications must be…

A Master Franchise happens when an investor goes all in. These franchisees pay big money to develop business opportunities in a specific territory. They recruit new franchisees, train them, and offer support. Master franchise opportunities cover a number of new businesses over a specific period. Here’s some more good information on this franchising opportunity. What Is a Master Franchise Company? A Master Franchise Company, often known as a Master Franchisee, is a firm or individual that purchases the rights to sub-franchise within a certain territory. Essentially, they act as a mini-franchisor for a specific region, territory, or country. This model allows the primary …

ASUS has announced the availability of the ZenScreen Duo OLED MQ149CD, a portable monitor featuring dual 14-inch OLED screens, offering users expanded screen real estate in a compact design. With 1920 x 1200 resolution and a 16:10 aspect ratio, the device provides an onscreen area equivalent to a 20-inch monitor. The OLED panels deliver vibrant colors, deep blacks, and exceptional clarity, ensuring an optimal visual experience. Compact, Innovative Design The ZenScreen Duo OLED MQ149CD weighs 1.07 kg and folds into a 14-inch form factor, making it highly portable. When unfolded, its dual-screen design supports various display modes, including Split, Extended, Independent,…

Social media, be it Twitter, Facebook or YouTube, have become the most popular platforms by hundreds of millions of users across the world. This has opened up opportunities for businesses to connect with customers, allowing them to maximize the income of their business. In addition, you can use social media sites to also make some money on the side. There are also opportunities to make money through social media without the need to sell anything. In this article, we show you things that can help you make money on social media. Why Small Businesses Should Use Social Media to Increase Income As part of a marketing strategy, social media can help your small business interac…

Tea is one of the most popular beverages around the world. As a result, starting a business that offers this healthy and delicious drink can be a rewarding and profitable experience. If you’re interested in starting a tea business, a franchise can help you get up and running quickly. These opportunities give you access to proven menus and systems. And you can attach yourself to a recognizable name right away. There are tons of tea franchises available, all with different niches and specialties. Understanding the options can help you make the best decision for your new business venture. Selecting the Perfect Tea Franchise: Our Methodology When it comes to owning a tea f…

GoPro, Inc. has unveiled a series of updates to its 360 video ecosystem, including the reintroduction of the refreshed MAX 360 camera, an upgraded mobile editing experience in the GoPro Quik App, and a new GoPro Reframe plugin for Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects. These updates enhance both mobile and desktop editing workflows, providing AI-powered tracking, advanced keyframing, and cinematic effects. GoPro’s MAX 360 camera now features a 5.6K spherical video capability, a longer-lasting MAX Enduro Battery, and a new mounting system compatible with standard ¼-20 tripod mounts. The camera is available for purchase at $349.99 MSRP. Quik App Introduces AI-Powered 360 E…

A small business audit doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be dealing with the Internal Revenue Service. Small business owners can conduct internal audits on an annual basis. Either way, the audit process involves looking at accounting records and tax return numbers. The idea is to make sure your financial data is correct, and that it’s in line with tax laws. What is a Small Business Audit? This process involves reviewing the tax filings and financial records of small businesses to ensure accuracy. Both internal and external auditors examine the accounting books and financial statements. Keep in mind you need to report things like a foreign bank account to the IRS. Why d…

Unlock the secret to non-stop entertainment with our easy guide on how to loop YouTube videos on any device! Whether you’re replaying your favorite tunes or a handy tutorial, we’ve got you covered from desktop to mobile. Get ready to elevate your viewing experience with simple steps and pro tips – endless enjoyment is just a click away! What is a YouTube Video Loop? Looping a YouTube video means playing it on repeat, a handy feature for those who want to enjoy a song, a scene, or a tutorial over and over. It’s perfect for uninterrupted viewing, learning new skills, or simply for keeping a great track on loop. How to Loop a Video on YouTube Want to keep your favorite Y…

In the context of optimizing your supply chain, selecting the right software is essential. Tools like SAP Integrated Business Planning and Oracle Fusion Cloud SCM offer advanced analytics and real-time forecasting capabilities. Kinaxis RapidResponse enables concurrent planning, whereas Coupa Supply Chain Design & Planning stands out in scenario planning. Each tool presents unique features that can improve efficiency and decision-making. Comprehending these options is key to enhancing your supply chain performance. So, which tool fits your needs best? Key Takeaways SAP Integrated Business Planning offers real-time data access and scenario planning, enhancing decisi…

When managing inventory, selecting the right software can greatly influence your business’s efficiency. Various programs cater to different needs, such as Sortly’s user-friendly approach or inFlow Inventory’s advanced B2B features. Comprehending the benefits and unique offerings of each solution helps you make informed decisions. This discussion will explore the top seven inventory programs, their features, pricing, and how they can improve your operations. Let’s examine what sets each program apart. Key Takeaways Sortly offers a free plan and customizable features, ideal for small businesses needing basic inventory management. inFlow Inventory targets B2B and wholesa…

eBay Inc. (Nasdaq: EBAY) has finalized its acquisition of Caramel, an online automotive transaction platform, strengthening its position in the digital vehicle marketplace. The deal, originally announced in January, aims to streamline vehicle sales by integrating Caramel’s end-to-end transaction technology into eBay Motors. Caramel’s platform offers a secure and fully digital vehicle transaction experience, handling ownership transfers, financing, transportation, and paperwork. By incorporating this technology, eBay seeks to simplify vehicle transactions for buyers and sellers while maintaining transparency and security. “At eBay, we know that buying a car is a signific…

Adobe has launched a major expansion of its Firefly generative AI platform, introducing a new Firefly Video Model in public beta and unveiling new Firefly plan offerings that integrate AI-powered video, image, and vector generation. The Firefly application, now a comprehensive creative AI hub, includes Generate Video (beta) and multi-modal workflows to help professionals transition seamlessly from ideation to production. The Firefly Video Model is the only commercially safe AI video generation tool, allowing brands, enterprises, and creators to use AI-generated content without IP concerns. Adobe states that Firefly-generated content is IP-friendly and production-ready, o…

Inflation is a significant concern for both economists and policymakers. It has been increasing globally, with no country appearing to be exempt from its impact. So what’s behind this troubling trend, and why does it seem to be getting worse? This article will explore some potential causes of inflation. Let’s get started! What is Causing Inflation? As small business owners, it’s important to stay informed about inflation. After all, higher costs brought on by inflation can have a big impact on your bottom line. As prices for goods and services rise, your costs go up as well. READ MORE: Inflation is a Top Concern for Small Business Owners as Prices Soar So what’s caus…

Excess humidity in work settings can lead to a variety of issues, such as mold growth, musty odors, and damage to equipment and products. To combat these problems, businesses often turn to commercial dehumidifiers, which are designed to remove moisture from the air and maintain optimal humidity levels. With a wide range of options available on the market, selecting the right commercial dehumidifier can be a daunting task. Importance of humidity control in businesses Humidity control is essential in a business environment as it directly affects employee health and safety, as well as the lifespan of equipment and products. High moisture levels in the air can foster the gro…

Meta announced it will begin testing its new Community Notes feature across Facebook, Instagram, and Threads in the United States starting March 18. This marks the beginning of Meta’s transition away from its third-party fact-checking program, which the company revealed in January it would discontinue in favor of a crowd-sourced model. Community Notes is designed to allow users to add context to posts, similar to the existing system used by X (formerly Twitter). Meta said, “We expect Community Notes to be less biased than the third party fact checking program it replaces because it allows more people with more perspectives to add context to posts.” Initially, notes writ…

PayPal Holdings, Inc. announced Wednesday that it has surpassed $30 billion in global loan originations, providing more than 1.4 million loans and cash advances to over 420,000 business accounts worldwide since 2013. The milestone underscores the company’s ongoing role in addressing the persistent challenge of capital access for small businesses. Small businesses account for more than 43% of the U.S. GDP and nearly 40% of private sector payroll, yet more than three-quarters of them remain concerned about securing the capital needed to sustain or grow their operations. In response to this concern, PayPal continues to expand its suite of financing solutions tailored to the…

As a McAfee subscription customer, it’s important that you’re aware of the various scams that are going around so you can protect your computer and data. That’s why, in this article, we’ll reveal McAfee scams you need to watch out for related to phishing emails, your McAfee subscription, and more. Let’s get started! Can You Get Scammed From a Computer Security Software Company Like McAfee? Getting scammed by the official McAfee company is quite unlikely. However, there are many scammers who try to take advantage of the well-known McAfee name. Scammers trick people and gain access to their money or personal information using malicious software. READ MORE: McAfee and Vis…

Are you considering owning a Chick-fil-A franchise? If that’s the case, you probably have questions about the ownership process and what it entails. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Chick-fil-A franchising. We’ll also provide a few tips to help you determine if owning a Chick-fil-A is the right choice for you. So, whether you’re just starting to explore franchise opportunities or you’re ready to take the next step, keep reading for helpful information about Chick-fil-A ownership. What is a Chick-fil-A Franchise? A Chick-fil-A franchise is a restaurant chain specializing in chicken sandwiches and other related menu items. T…

Planting beets can be a lucrative venture- they are a versatile crop with a variety of uses. They are also fairly easy to grow, and they don’t require much maintenance, which can cut down on costs. Beets are a high-yield crop, so you can grow a large number of beets on a relatively small amount of land. They have a long shelf life, which makes them great for selling to grocers and markets, and cut down on waste. Can Growing Beets From Seed Be Profitable? Since beets are versatile and have various applications, there is consistently a strong demand for them. Here are some ways you can profit from planting beets: Food – Beets are a popular food crop that can be sold to …

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is one of the most critical aspects of digital marketing, and it continues to evolve each year. For small businesses, keeping up with these changes is essential to maintaining online visibility, attracting new customers, and staying ahead of the competition. In 2025, SEO is more dynamic than ever, with AI-driven search results, voice search optimization, user experience (UX) enhancements, and evolving Google algorithms shaping the digital landscape. If you run a small business, understanding and implementing the latest SEO strategies can significantly impact your online growth. This article will explore what your small business needs to k…

In the franchise industry, 7-11 has truly humble beginnings. An owner in Dallas, Texas, ran 16 icehouse companies in 1927. All were thriving. There was no reason to make any changes. However, one of the managers had an inspiration for a business franchise. He asked the owner for permission to start selling bread, milk, and eggs. This idea proved to be extremely successful, and soon, all the stores began adopting it. They named these stores “Tote’m” stores. In 1964, the company acquired 126 SpeeDee Marts in California. Every year, there were more and more franchises. Currently, there are 78,029 7-11s in 19 countries, with 135,000 employees. There’s even a 7-Eleven in Jap…

Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum have revolutionized our approach to money. You can use these digital currencies for a wide range of purchases – from small items like coffee to big-ticket items like cars. As cryptocurrencies become more common in regular business, there’s a growing need for apps or exchanges that handle these digital currencies. This surge in cryptocurrency use has made apps for managing them more important than ever. The best cryptocurrency apps make it easy for you to buy, sell, and trade your digital currency. This article will help you understand these apps and guide you in choosing the right one for your small business requirements. He…

Cost accounting is about reporting all of the fixed and variable costs involved in producing something. It corrals in numbers like overhead costs, materials, and labor. And others. It gives your small business a solid framework to plan with. And it shows your enterprise what’s working and profitable and what needs to be tweaked. What Exactly is Cost Accounting? Cost accounting involves several different metrics. It’s about cost control to increase profits. By looking at numbers like marginal cost versus standard costs to name a few. Businesses put the pieces together for a cost volume profit analysis that provides a cost accounting system tracking production. It trac…

Key Takeaways Community Hubs: Public markets serve as vibrant spaces that foster connections between farmers, artisans, and consumers, enhancing community engagement through unique shopping experiences. Economic Impact: They significantly bolster local economies by providing platforms for small businesses, attracting foot traffic, and generating sales opportunities while promoting local entrepreneurship. Sustainability Focus: Many public markets emphasize sustainable practices by prioritizing locally sourced and environmentally friendly products, encouraging healthier consumer choices. Challenges to Navigate: Public markets face competition from supermarkets and reg…

Someone operating a business through eBay will need to be aware of the return policy, as a dissatisfied customer happens to every seller at some point. This complete guide contains everything a business owner needs to know about the eBay return policy and how to issue a refund. What is the eBay Refund Policy? The eBay return policy is very straightforward and follows three simple steps as you can see below. The reasons for returning the item will determine the options of the seller, and these will be examined in detail further below. The eBay process to issue a refund works as follows: Buyers open a return application via the website after changing their minds. Enter r…