NEW VtSBDC Resource: Easy Tips for Figuring Out Your Break Even Point
< 1 minute read Good news for those using our newest resource “Back of the Envelope”. We’ve taken it a step further with a second helpful worksheet that will help you estimate how much and what you need to sell to break even. It’s as easy as adding your anticipated operating expenses and up to five products that will be sold. Next, you will add the […]
Pay Attention to the BACK of the Envelope
2 minute read In the start-up stage of a business, having access to capital will often be a key factor in determining its success. An important part of that capital structure can be the effective use of debt. In fact, borrowing is often necessary to grow or effectively manage cash flow. The essential part of managing debt is […]
COVID-19 Grant and Loan Dashboard
2 minute read The numerous COVID Loan and Grant options offered by the Feds and the State of Vermont can be easily confused. To help business owners document and organize important information on each loan and grant your business has received, VtSBDC has designed a dashboard tool. Using the COVID-19 Grant and Loan Dashboard, you will have the […]
Let Your Communication Plan Take Flight: Discover the Tactical Side of Marketing & Public Relations Planning
3 minute read In a three-part series focusing on communications and marketing planning, we shared the “why” behind having a well thought out plan in part 1. In part 2, we highlighted specific strategies. Finally, in part 3, we take a look at the tactical side of a sound communications plan. Assess, Strategize, Implement: Putting Your Communication Plan […]
Successful Communication Begins with Strategic Planning: Highlights of the VtSBDC Communications Plan
5 minute read In Part 1 of our blog series on Communications, we shared the Why behind having a well thought out, strategic plan to assess and reflect upon your business’ unique value proposition, target audiences, branding, and messaging. While most of us love to plunge right into the energetic, fun side of tactics, let’s take a pause […]
What’s the Buzz About?: The Five Why’s Behind the VtSBDC Communications Plan
4 minute read When four experienced, well-connected bankers decided to join forces and start a small community bank, their intended marketing plan was to open the doors of their flagship location and reach out to their contacts to say, “we’re open,” a frequently used approach that assumes, “build it and they will come.” However, something happened during the […]
Preparing to Meet with a Bankruptcy Attorney
< 1 minute read In February, we hosted a webinar with Vermont Law School on Small Business Bankruptcy and Reorganization. The goal of this webinar was to clarify the available options, demystify the legal process and destigmatize common misconceptions about bankruptcy. One question that was frequently asked during this webinar was, “How should I prepare for a consultation about […]
How to Hire a Bookkeeper
2 minute read How do I choose a bookkeeper? We are asked this question frequently, during our workshops on “Starting Your Own Business” and individual client meetings. The bookkeeping function IS an essential part of your business. Bookkeepers help keep your business financials organized and correct, allowing you as the business owner to stay in compliance and make […]