Despite being based in one of America’s great centers of entrepreneurship (Silicon Valley), Amanda Keppert and her hot dog business, pictured above, needed the help of a tool more commonly associated with centers of third world poverty: microfinance. Ms. Keppert, as Kristina Shevory writes in a just published article, obtained a $6,500 loan through Kiva, which has lent more than $140 million in 53 countries.
Are microloans part of the answer to the small-business credit crisis?
The New York Times is inviting small-business owners to submit videos about what its like to own a company that struggles but survives. If you'd be willing to make a video, send us an e-mail.
The restaurant had music and calm activity and was humming along at a lovely pace. Pardon the metaphor, but we were cooking.
The sky did not fall, the bookkeeper paid the bills, and we didn’t run out of money.
A factory’s workers manage to turn their shop around.
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Bruce Buschel — an author, magazine writer, co-creator of an Off Broadway musical, and director/producer of jazz films — writes about his latest venture: building and starting a seafood restaurant.
Paul Downs, who founded Paul Downs Cabinetmakers, writes about the struggles of a small business trying to survive in a tough economy.
Adriana Gardella, a former lawyer who has covered small-business issues extensively as a journalist, writes about female entrepreneurs.
Jay Goltz, who employs more than 100 people at his five Chicago businesses, offers insights and perspective on running a small business.
Lora Kolodny, who began reporting on business and entertainment in 2002, writes about the winners, losers, innovation and deal-making of business competitions.
Robb Mandelbaum, a veteran reporter, writes about the political and policy issues of small business.
MP Mueller, founder and president of Door Number 3, a boutique ad agency, writes about small businesses and marketing.
Jack Stack is the founder and chief executive of SRC Holdings, a manufacturing company that pioneered open-book management and has spawned 58 companies since 1982.
Barbara Taylor, a partner and co-founder of Synergy Business Services, writes about the issues related to buying, selling and valuing private businesses.
Jennifer Walzer, who is founder and chief executive of Backup My Info!, writes about the challenges of taking her company to the next level. You can follow her on Twitter: @BackupMyInfo.
You’re the Boss offers an insider’s perspective on small-business ownership. It gives business owners a place where they can compare notes, ask questions, get advice, and learn from one another’s mistakes. Its contributors also interpret news events, track political and policy issues, and suggest investing tips.