Cover Story
Seeing GreenSignaling the end of the VC drought, several industries have become fertile ground for investors. So what's the best way to find the right investor--even if you're not in one of those superstar sectors? Start with our 4th Annual VC 100.
Features
The Other Colors of MoneyIf banks and VCs are out of your financial picture, don't despair. These 3 alternative sources of capital could provide the funding you're looking for.
Be Your Own Boss
Be Your Own Boss FeaturesSales ReportOnce tainted by get-rich-quick schemes, the direct-sales industry is changing its image. See what experts and business owners have to say about going direct.
Stake Your ClaimContrary to popular belief, there's no need to ante up a fortune when you're playing the startup game. Here's how 3 entrepreneurs launched high-cost businesses the low-cost way.
Biz 101By Special RequestUpscale concierge businesses give new meaning to the phrase "service with a smile."
Makeover MagicThe experts work their mojo on our "Biz 101" Tech Makeover winner's outdated Web site.
More Bang for Your BuckNeed to fill your store shelves? Then this trade show has your name written all over it.
Spacing OutOops! Forgot to include something crucial in your business plan? So did these entrepreneurs.
Franchise ZoneWord to the WiseA few things to consider before tackling franchising
InnovationsAll Fired UpWith the right marketing plan, your product will blaze trails across the globe.
OpportunitiesFlower PowerA nearly overlooked opportunity is blooming into an ideal business.
What's New 07/04State of the art
Smart IdeasSmart Ideas 07/04Scrubs for the pint-sized set, pop culture nesting dolls and more
Success CoachA Clean SweepTake your work environment from cluttered to clear with these steps.
What's Your Problem?Where the Action IsA mobile photography business can go a long way if you know where you're going.
In Every Issue
Almost FamousScout's HonorWith an Academy Award and a hit TV show, the creators of
Queer Eye are telling stories everyone wants to hear.
Editor's NoteeBayWatchFeedbackFeedback 07/04Letters from our readers
ResourcesResources 07/04Web sites, organizations, events and more to grow your business
Management
LegalHouse RulesBefore you let your people work at home, find out what you're liable for--and cover your bases.
Management BuzzManagement Buzz 07/04Protecting your office hardware, instituting a parental leave policy and more
Real DealIt'll Cost YaKnow how your lawyer tallies up your legal tab.
Smart MovesUse It or Lose ItIs your business usable--or disposable? Figure it out before your competitors gain an edge.
Staff SmartsHere to StayWhen you're looking for new hires, temps may not be as temporary as you might think.
Marketing
A+ AdsIn a NutshellSomething as unexpected as a talking almond could be just what you need to catch the reader's eye.
Ask the ExpertThumbs Up!Rave reviews could be all the advertising you need.
Marketing BuzzMarketing Buzz 07/04Creating a memorable atmosphere, a marketing treasure chest and more
Net SalesSpam UncannedWhy the recent anti-spam legislation isn't protecting you
Retail RegisterThe Inside ScoopOne expert's take on today's retail scene
Sales ForceQuality TimeNot getting what you want out of your sales meetings? Here are 5 tips to point you in the right direction.
Sales SuccessFace OffSometimes, closing the deal is just a matter of taking the right approach. Find out how you can master the art of the soft sell--and the hard sell.
TacticsPress ConferenceYou've worked hard to land that media interview--so don't blow your opportunity. Here's how to make sure you get your message across.
Money
Dollar SignsMoney to Burn?Before you go on a spending spree with your surplus cash, get your priorities straight.
FundsSixth SenseSometimes six heads are better than one.
InsuranceGoing PublicA public insurance adjuster could help you get what you deserve.
Money BuzzMoney Buzz 07/04Interest-bearing checking accounts, credit card debt and more
Personal FinanceWill PowerBuild flexibility into your estate plan so heirs can avoid the pitfalls of changing tax laws.
Raising MoneyDebt End Ahead?Don't let debt put your business in a tight spot--learn how to use leverage to your advantage.
Tax TalkTo the RescueFeel like the IRS is out to get you? A taxpayer advocate is on your side.
Smarts
Biz TravelShop AroundThis technology can help you comparison shop for low fares.
BooksFollowing the LeaderLearn these laws, and employees won't be far behind you.
Capitol IssuesStepping On ItWill new measures really rev up U.S. manufacturers' engines?
It FiguresIt Figures 07/04Benefits to small-business employees, where spam comes from and more
Smarts FeaturesDown and OutMany personal bankruptcies are really business failures in disguise.
In Vain?What does the future hold for the once-hot metrosexual?
The New KidAnother wireless technology is moving into the neighborhood.
Stamp It OutA new proposal aims to bring spam under control
Breaking the ChainA declaration of independents against chain restaurants
Mutual AttractionDespite the headlines, mutual funds are still a good thing.
A Fair CaseThese pretty laptop cases are pretty functional, too.
Survival of the FittestWhat do entrepreneurs do to stay happy and healthy?
SnapshotSnapshot 07/04Beth Blake, 34, and Sophie Simmons, 32, founders of Thread in New York City
Tech ToyScreen SupremeWork and watch TV at the same time with this new LCD
WheelsWorth the Drive?Your company cars could be gulping more than just gas if you don't know what your ownership costs are.
WomenLet's Have Some Funds!Two women entrepreneurs sound off on the ups and downs of finding VC funding.
Tech
Buyer's GuideSlim DownSick of your bulky PC? A desktop replacement notebook could be the answer.
ConnectionsCome TogetherAs telecom companies race to integrate wireless capability, mobile calling could get even better.
Digital EdgeRelease the HoundsWith search engine competition on the rise, entrepreneurs stand to benefit, as both users and advertisers.
GearGear 07/04ThinkPad slims down and no-computer-required photo printing
Hot DisksHot Disks 07/04Portable e-mails, bare-bones compression and more
Net ProfitsMake 'Em an OfferEntrepreneurs can save big bucks by bidding for equipment on eBay. Learn which strategies work best.
Tech BuzzTech Buzz 07/04More to Office than meets the eyes, staying current with Web feeds and more
WirelessYou Can Take It With YouUse your mobile phone even while abroad.
Get Smart!When using Wi-Fi hot spots, don't throw caution to the wind.