Ranked among the "Best Lawyers in America" and honored by the American Board of Trial Advocates, the San Diego law firm of
Thorsnes Bartolotta McGuire has built much of its reputation on representing the little guy.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and its partners help millions of existing and prospective small business owners start, grow and succeed. They help with SBA loans, counseling, training and contracts. SBA also helps businesses and families recover from disasters with loans, and is a voice for small business, helping reduce regulatory impact. Each month, this section provides information to start, expand and manage small business.

Seeking to provide cutting-edge services in the cosmetology industry, Richard and Connie Ouelette moved from Newport Beach in 1987 to open a hair salon in what was known then as North County Fair. While Richard had already created a name for himself as a hair stylist in Orange County, he wasn’t sure how he would be perceived in Escondido. It turns out he didn’t have to worry.

Benjamin Breskman’s nightmare began in September 1999, in the aftermath of the devastation caused by Hurricane Floyd. His Sentry Paint Technologies manufacturing plant in Darby, Penn., was nearly destroyed by the 17 feet of floodwater that swept through the building. The plant sustained more than $2.7 million in damages.

More than ever before, the academic world relies on technology to help give students easier access to the kinds of information, coursework and instruction that are often out of the reach for ordinary Americans, either because of geography, costs or time constraints. Now, thanks to the Internet, business training is no exception.

A business plan precisely defines your business, identifies your goals and serves as your firm's resume. The basic components include a current and pro-forma balance sheet, an income statement and a cash flow analysis. It helps you allocate resources properly, handle unforeseen complications and make good business decisions.

Starting and managing a business takes motivation and talent. It also takes research and planning. Although initial mistakes are not always fatal, it takes extra skill, discipline, and hard work to regain the advantage. Take time beforehand to explore and evaluate your business and personal goals, then use this information to build a comprehensive and thoughtful business plan that will help you reach these goals.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and its partners help millions of existing and prospective small business owners start, grow, and succeed. They help with SBA loans, counseling, training and contracts. SBA also helps businesses and families recover from disasters with loans and is a voice for small business, helping reduce regulatory impact. Each month, this section provides information to start, expand, and manage small business.
