How to sell your killer iPhone app
A guide to breaking big in Apple’s very crowded market.
Keeven Kuate Konga, Tempe
What steps do I take in order to make a big jump in the iPhone application industry? I have found an app designer. I know the basics, but is there any other information other than what’s given on Apple’s Web site?
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DiggHow to get your video game into retail stores
Have a hot idea for an educational software product? Here’s how successful entrepreneurs have cracked the market.
Ernest L. Leisner, Buffalo
I have created a word game that I would like to transform into an educational video game. I believe it can go a long way to help improve the dismal illiteracy rate in our schools. I have many aspects of a proposal in place and I’d like to find a government grant to help. I have tried searching the Internet, but there are scams all over the place.
Trademarks 101: How to protect your good name
Registering your company’s name as a trademark isn’t legally required, but it can pay off down the road.
Nick, Seattle
I am starting a clothing company and need to copyright the brand name. What is the best way to do this on a tight budget?
‘Should I hire a business coach?’
If your company is stalled, a coach could be the catalyst you need.
Darrin Lugash, Houston
I have a business in theory, but haven’t seen any action in it. I’m working full-time in my former trade while I wait for my business to take off. I’m not sure where to get help – when is it time to hire a business coach? What should I look for in a coach, and what should my expectations be of him or her?
Starting a biz: What you can write off
You don’t get a tax break on money you borrow – but the interest you pay on your loans is fair game for deduction.
Bryanne Goetz, Orlando
I started a business from home this year. Can I write off the money that was loaned to me to start the company?
‘I signed a noncompete – but now I want a new job’
Is a court likely to uphold a restrictive noncompete agreement? It depends on where you live.
Ryan H. from Fort Wayne, Ind.
When I started my current job, I signed a noncompete agreement without really reading it. After reading it in full, I discovered that it sounds like they’re trying to keep me out of the entire Web design industry, anywhere in the U.S., for two years after leaving. I am looking for a new job right now – should I be worried about this? Would a judge ever uphold such a sweeping contract, in spite of my signature on it?
‘I started a biz – and now it’s failing’
Our experts try to jump-start a struggling auto services venture.
Eddie Freeman II, Lube N Go Michigan!, Mich.
I started a mobile oil change business. We change your vehicle’s oil at your location, work or home, for $24.95. I am having trouble launching the business – the phone is just not ringing, and I am having no luck with fleet businesses. I’ve tried word-of-mouth marketing and handing out fliers. I started the business with my own money when gas was $4 a gallon to save customers money and time. Everyone thinks the idea is great, but no one is using it. I quit my job as a dealership service manager to start this business. What advice do you have to get it going?
How to get inventory when you’re low on cash
For retailers that don’t want the overhead of stockpiling merchandise, drop shipping can be a cost-saving option.
Mike, Queens, NY
I started a home-based wholesaling business six months ago and got four credit cards totaling $18,000. I was scammed out of $10,000 and invested another $4,000 into a Web site and advertising. Now my cards are almost maxed out, and I need the cash or credit to purchase merchandise. Business people tell me it takes a few years before turning a profit, but I’ve worked like the devil these past six months to finally get the contacts and deals I’ve been searching for, only now I don’t have the cash or the credit. Is there anything I can do?
Finding the best customers for your business
Some clients aren’t worth the headaches. Advance vetting and precautions can spare you the pain.
Chris Walker, Phoenix
I started a concierge service on a tight budget. I am not looking to conquer the world in a day. I would like to attract the “right” customer and grow the business within my means. What would be the best methods to find that “right” customer?
How to ditch bad business partners
Planning ahead is your best bet for a successful resolution if a business deal turns toxic.
Amy, Wheeling, W.V.
I formed an LLC with two other partners. They are a couple. One owns 33%, the other 34% and I own 33%. We do not have any legal documents drawn up. I want to take the business and get them out. One partner does nothing and still works a full-time job and the other is a control freak making poor choices. This is a new venture, and they funded it with credit cards. The debt is small and I can easily take it over financially, but they will not sell the business to me. The response has been fantastic, and I want to have the business before they ruin it. Do I have any options at all?
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