“Going solo” and setting up micro enterprises from home is becoming increasingly popular. For some, it’s something they’ve always wanted to do; while for others, unemployment or a sense of financial insecurity in the current economic climate drives them to attempt to take control of their own financial destiny. However, many discover that there’s a massive amount to learn. As a start-up entrepreneur you’ll need to know a lot about a lot – from the type of Washington business insurance you’ll need to how to fulfill your tax obligations. A little bit of know-how when it comes to marketing, customer services, and managing cash flow will come in more than handy too.

Could you use a little insight in some of these matters? Consider taking advantage of the excellent range of training offered by the Small Business Development Centers. There are a range of options coming up in the first quarter of 2012 from webinars and one day seminars through to multiple session courses.

Thinking of exporting but not sure how best to go about it? The SBDC also has international trade specialists available for consultation.

As you’ve probably heard, numerous small businesses fail in their first few years of operation. Many times, this is due to a lack of knowledge on the owner’s part, and/or a lack of understanding of matters such as cash flow.

Not having Washington business insurance can also lead to business failure if a disaster or business interruption occurs and the enterprise doesn’t have the funds to recover. We’d encourage you to take out your coverage from the day you commence trading.

*