I’m all for your plan to start an online business. The dream’s not easy and I’m sure you agree with me that beginning the dream is the hardest part. The next parts may be extremely difficult and at times hopeless, but having the courage to step down from your 9 to 5 and doing what you’ve always wanted? That’s hands down the most challenging.
So in what little way can I help you make that first bold step? Here are five resources that can make the difference between ignorance and wisdom.
Created by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs, StartupNation contains troves of articles and posts that will help you figure out everything from business models to financing your business. But that’s not what makes this website stand out. It’s the networking opportunity with many other entrepreneurs who are ready and able to give you assistance as to how you should start your business.
More than being a networking site, StartupNation claims to be a support system that will help you as you start your journey in building your business empire from a small startup business. And the site has proof to back up its claim, with many web-based entrepreneurs humbly starting from this site.
Another problem you will have with your business is the funding. If you don’t have the financial resources to start your business just yet, that’s perfectly fine. There are other people who are willing to invest in your business. Enter Prosper, the top choice for peer-to-peer lending. Pitch your idea in this site and auction it off to people who will vote on which ideas sound favorable and potentially profitable.
There are many things that investors will consider when giving you a loan: you can share your personal story, get endorsed by a friend, show your credit history, and even use the power of your affiliations. With the business model of Prosper, you can now start something big with your small idea–and you don’t have to worry about the money tp start it all at once just yet.
It’s unbelievable how a lot of companies are still ignoring LinkedIn for its amazing business opportunities. Even if you haven’t officially launched your business, there’s every reason why you should create a LinkedIn account. It’s a great way to introduce your business to other businesses in the same niche as yours and are more than willing to offer a piece of advice or two. Also, LinkedIn groups are a great way to connect with suppliers and find out what the latest news in your industry are.