How to Think Like a Successful Entrepreneur

Entrepreneurship is about treading new ground. It is about taking a step no one has taken before, at least not in that same way or in the same place. So it should not be surprising that much of the scholarly literature on entrepreneurship, since Richard Cantillon in the early 1700s, has focused on entrepreneurship as uncertainty-bearing.

Although “bearing uncertainty” might be what entrepreneurs do in the economy from a theorist’s point of view, it is not — and should not be — the rationale for starting a business. After all, uncertainty means the outcome is unknown, which, in turn, means it could end up ugly. In other words, uncertainty is a cost — it is a burden on the entrepreneur’s shoulders. Entrepreneurs are right to attempt to avoid the uncertainty. Read more at Entrepreneur.com.

6 Reasons Why More Women Are Turning To Entrepreneurship

There are a lot of challenges that women are facing in the modern world. And it gets doubled when they try to break through the glass ceiling of male-centric stereotypes in the workplace. But you should know that you can’t achieve greatness with a small mind, and getting into an entrepreneurship journey is extremely rewarding.

Nowadays, women are taking the courage to excel and become the masters of this art. Recent studies show that more than 63% of women entrepreneurs are dependent on their business as their primary revenue source. This challenges the old stereotype that women only run lifestyle businesses for supplemental income, rather than as a primary source of income. Instead, today’s women are breaking this stereotype, and becoming good at it. Read more at Addicted2Success.com.

Daily Message from Acceler8Success Founder, Paul Segreto

Sometimes no matter how well we plan and how much effort we dedicate to something, we fall short of our goal and the end-result causes a variety of challenges and problems. Ultimately, it can adversely affect financial position, reputation, relationships, team spirit and much more. It can also start to spiral into personal life and affect family, health and overall well-being. Unfortunately, such situations are often perpetuated by denial by placing one own’s head in the sand.”

Well, when our head is in the sand, our most vulnerable ass-et is sticking out in plain view. Some will laugh. Others will point and snicker, definitely telling others. And a few will take advantage of the situation and current position of vulnerability. Sadly, we put ourselves in that position. Not because we swung and missed. Not because we didn’t see the forest for the trees. And not because we just flat-out saw something that wasn’t there. Instead, it’s because we didn’t keep our head high, accept the situation, learn from it and move on, and with laser-focus. That is exactly what entrepreneurs do when faced with failure.

Have a great day. Make it happen. Make it count!

How to Buy a Business

If you want to enter the world of entrepreneurship without starting from scratch, you may consider buying a business. However, some prospective business buyers aren’t sure where to start.

Luckily, there are business brokers, marketplace sites, and tons of other resources to help you navigate the process. Each business purchase is likely to look a bit different. But understanding the basics can help you at least get started.

To learn more, download the BizBuySell Guide to Buying a Small Business. (Or if you’re selling a business, download the BizBuySell Guide to Selling Your Small Business.) Read more at SmallBizTrends.com.

Executive Opportunity: Invest in Your Own Business Brokerage Office

Small business and restaurant resales are on the rise making it an excellent time to consider owning your own Business Brokerage office. 

A Business Broker is a professional executive, equipped with the knowledge to successfully complete the sale of an existing business, franchise or business opportunity. As the owner of your own business broker office, you will be working on a daily basis with other professionals: business owners, buyers, seasoned entrepreneurs as well as top executives in national franchise companies. Learn more about becoming a Business Broker.

Women Entrepreneurs: Own Your Power

A call for economic empowerment was at the core of Betty Friedan’s landmark, earth-shattering book The Feminine Mystique, published in 1963. Friedan wrote, “Women are people, no more no less, and therefore demand our human right to participate in the mainstream of society, to equal opportunity to earn and be trained and have our own voice in the big decisions of our destiny.”

Much of Friedan’s anger stemmed from the idea that American women were imprisoned in their roles as housewives and weren’t pursuing career opportunities.

Gail Collins, the first female editorial page editor for The New York Times, noted in the introduction of the 50th-anniversary edition of the book that Friedan was obsessed with women getting jobs. The Feminine Mystique, she writes, “is a very specific cry of rage about the way intelligent, well-educated women were kept out of the mainstream of American professional life.”

Why was Friedan so angry? Partly because in 1963, women earned 59 percent of what men did. While those numbers have improved, today, women are making about 81% of what men earn—still nowhere near equal. Read more at score.org.

Do you believe in yourself?

This from the movie, Walk the Line…

Record producer, Sam Phillips: “Bring… bring it home? All right, let’s bring it home. If you was hit by a truck and you was lying out there in that gutter dying, and you had one time to sing one song. Huh? One song that people would remember before you’re dirt. One song that would let God know how you felt about your time here on Earth. One song that would sum you up. You tellin’ me that’s the song you’d sing? That same Jimmy Davis tune we hear on the radio all day, about your peace within, and how it’s real, and how you’re gonna shout it? Or… would you sing somethin’ different. Somethin’ real. Somethin’ you felt. Cause I’m telling you right now, that’s the kind of song that truly saves people. It ain’t got nothin’ to do with believin’ in God, Mr. Cash. It has to do with believin’ in yourself.”

For Entrepreneurs, Your Smile Matters More Than You May Know

Entrepreneurs have a lot on their plates. Low self-esteem, a lack of confidence due to something as simple as a smile, shouldn’t be one of them.

Studies confirm that smiling leads to a decrease in stress-induced hormones that negatively affect your physical and mental health. Smiling less, as a result of a self-conscious smile, does more harm than good.

Smiling is good for your health and a great smile is good for business. While it may seem a bit cliche, it’s even said a great smile can open doors to success. Read more at YFSmagazine.com.

“Don’t be too hard on yourself. There are plenty of people willing to do that for you. Do your best and surrender the rest. Tell yourself, “I am doing the best I can with what I have in this moment. That is all I can ever expect of anyone, including me.” Love yourself and be proud of everything you do, even your mistakes, because your mistakes mean you’re trying.

If you feel like others are not treating you with love and respect, check your price tag. Perhaps you subconsciously marked yourself down. Because it’s YOU who tells others what you’re worth by showing them what you are willing to accept for your time and attention. So get off the clearance rack. If you don’t value and respect yourself, wholeheartedly, no one else will either.”

– Unknown 

How to Fight Your Fear of Leaving Your Job To Become An Entrepreneur

If you’re reading this, you’ve probably come to realize that the corporate life just isn’t for you.  You’ve been thinking about leaving your job to work for yourself but you can’t seem to leave the security, safety, and familiarity of being an employee.  Trust me, I’ve been there.

Going from a full-time job to a business of your own is a scary transition, therefore, you need to have a solid plan in place. As a potential entrepreneur, you should identify the problems that you could come across and where you could go for help. You should also have the right resources to dig into if you face these challenges in order to avoid failing. Read more at StartUpMindset.com.

Escape the “Shecession” and Start a Business

The impact of COVID-19 on American businesses has been significant, but women have been affected more than most. According to the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, at the end of 2020, women’s jobs on non-farm payrolls were 5.3 million below February’s pre-COVID levels, compared with 4.57 million fewer non-farm payroll jobs for men.

This trend has been labeled a “shecession,” and, even as the economy seems to be heating up, no one really knows how long it will last. Read more at SmallBizTrends.com.

67 Startup Statistics You Need to Know in 2021 

Building a startup requires a vision for your business, an opportunity in the market, a deep understanding of the landscape—and a whole hell of a lot of work. We know, because we’re building Unstack now, too. 

That’s why we compiled 67 of the most important startup statistics, covering funding, founders, marketing, and more. We were curious and wanted to learn what the last year’s looked like for startups, and we wanted to share that in case it’s helpful information for you, too. Read more at Unstack.com.

Welcome to The Social Geek Radio Network.

Get in touch with your inner geek. Jack Monson and many special guests discuss social media and digital marketing trends for brands, small businesses, and franchises. 

Social Geek Radio was listed as one of 20 Best Business Podcasts according to Emerge and was named to the Best Small Business Podcasts by FitSmallBusiness.com. Recently, Social Geek Radio finally made the Top 25 podcasts in the Marketing category of Apple Podcasts / iTunes.

• Franchise Facebook Podcast – every Monday
• Franchise News Podcast – every Wednesday
• Social Geek Radio Franchise Spotlight – every Friday

Listen, download, subscribe to Social Geek Radio!

Daily Message from Acceler8Success Founder, Paul Segreto

Yesterday, I noticed the closing of yet another local restaurant. Once again, this caused me to pause and quite frankly, to shed a few tears. It’s a very sad day when any business closes its doors. The ripple effect is widespread as it affects more people than most might imagine. This restaurant had approximately thirty employees. Plus, let’s not forget vendors & suppliers and others that served or were dependent upon the business as part of their own survival.

Decisions made towards closing are difficult as often there’s a domino effect to consider. Of course, there’s an emotional component regardless of the size of the organization. There’s a level of complexity that is not realized by anyone outside the management and/or leadership circles.

No one lives for failure. It’s difficult at all levels. Many people will be dealing with ramifications as a result of this closing long after some other business opens in that location. To that end, I wish all who are adversely affected nothing but the best as they take their next steps and explore their options. My thoughts and prayers are with them all!

30 Business Articles Every Entrepreneur Should Read

1. 57 Questions to Ask When Buying a Business

Entrepreneurs need to start somewhere, and the best way to start might be by purchasing an existing business. This article uncovers the 57 best questions to ask before you buy a small business.

2. These are The Dumbest Things Entrepreneurs do

Recently valued at over $4.1B, Mark Cuban knows a thing or two about building great businesses. In this article, Cuban implores new entrepreneurs not to fall into three, easy-to-miss traps.

3. The Ultimate Guide to Small Business Trends

To increase sales, serve customers better, and operate more efficiently, you need to know what’s coming next. Read about the immediate and distant future of small business in this ultimate guide.

4. What Makes a Leader?

Business owners are many things, but first, they’re leaders. In this article, Harvard Business Review discusses what a leader looks like, and how you can improve your leadership skills.

5. Why You Hate Work

Just 13 percent of workers worldwide report feeling fulfilled at work, so it’s no wonder so many people hate their jobs. As a business owner, you need to cultivate an environment that gives employees what they need to be fulfilled — this article provides a roadmap.

Read about the remaining 25 top business articles at ForaFinancial.com.

“Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe, it can achieve.” – Napoleon Hill

How to Become an Entrepreneur: 7 Steps You’ll Take on the Road to Entrepreneurship

For so many of us, going into business for ourselves is the ultimate dream. We crave the creative control, flexible hours, and the freedom that comes with being an entrepreneur.

But there’s a lot of work involved behind the scenes, and much of becoming an entrepreneur is about planning, strategy, and then dedicated execution. If you’ve always wanted to get into the game but haven’t been sure how to, we’ve created this resource as a jumping off point. Read more at Shopify.com.

Franchise Foundry is seeking experienced operators and investors for fast-growing restaurant brands. Single, Multi-unit & Area Development Opportunities. Wide investment range starting at $150k. New Operating Partner Program! Learn more and inquire at FranchiseFoundry.com.

If You Want to Be a Successful Entrepreneur, Take Note of These 7 Lessons

One of the main objectives of creating a business is related to the generation of wealth: for the environment, for society and for the business owner. The generation of wealth is related to money and its correct management. Many entrepreneurs start their business as operators or technicians and never delve into money management. That makes their businesses stay small or not survive over time.

Many people think that all they need to start is a good idea. Unfortunately it is not like that, good ideas abound everywhere and are destined to die, if you do not have an entrepreneurial mindset. Creating a new business requires hard work, high tolerance for frustration, being willing to carry on when it seems like all is lost, implementation, implementation, and more implementation. But above all, it requires an obsession to achieve your dreams, more than an obsession to generate money. If you look for money, your chances of success will decrease (because at the beginning you won’t have it). If you seek to transform people’s lives and make a change on the planet, money will come as a consequence. So do you or do you not have an entrepreneurial mindset? Find out at Finace.Yahoo.com.

14 Kid Entrepreneur Books and Entrepreneur Biographies for Kids

Kid entrepreneurs are popping up everywhere. And the market appears to be highly ready to receive them, as many have “hit it big. Take Leanna, for example, who was constantly being complimented about her hair at around the age of 11.

The secret sauce? She actually was making her own homemade hair products. She saw an opportunity for her homemade hair dressings, hair butters, and shampoos (all free of sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens, and lots of other mainstream chemicals) and opened up her company, Leanna’s, Inc. In 2010, she raked in $100,000 in profits, and in 2011, that number was more like $300,000. Read more at MoneyProdigy.com.

5 Weekend Habits Of Highly Successful People

Weekend time is incredibly valuable and it often feels like it is over far too soon. How you spend your weekend can dramatically impact your weekday success. Highly successful people recognize the importance of shifting into a relaxing and rejuvenating mindset. They also know the value of spending a little time on the weekend preparing for the week ahead. Read on to learn 5 easy ways you can use your weekend time to rejuvenate and prepare for a successful work week.

An active body keeps the mind healthy and agile. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg notes that doing anything well requires energy and you have more energy when you’re fit. Working out on a day off gives you the flexibility to explore activities you might not have time for on a busy weekday. Richard Branson stays active with kite surfing, rock jumping, paddle boarding and boat races. A weekend game of golf or tennis can provide an opportunity to connect with friends and family. A solitary run could be great for personal reflection. Choosing to be active on the weekends sets you up for a successful, productive work week. Read more at Medium.com.

The 20 Happiest Countries In The World In 2021 (Guess Where The U.S. Ranked?)

Who doesn’t need some happy news these days? Just in time for the United Nation’s annual International Day of Happiness on March 20, the results of the 2021 World Happiness Report have been released—and the results will put a smile on your face, despite the ongoing pandemic that has killed more than 2.6 million people around the globe. For the fourth year in a row, Finland has been named the happiest country in the world, with Iceland coming in second, followed by Denmark, Switzerland and the Netherlands.

And during a challenging time for the United States, things improved here, too. The U.S. shot up to number 14—up four spots from last year when it ranked 18, even beating out our neighbors in Canada (who slipped to number 15 this year). In the 2019 World Happiness Report, the United States was even lower, at number 19. Read more at Forbes.com.

Work Life Balance

With so many of us torn between juggling heavy workloads, managing relationships and family responsibilities, and squeezing in outside interests, it’s no surprise that more than one in four Americans describe themselves as “super stressed.” And that’s not balanced—or healthy.

In our rush to “get it all done” at the office and at home, it’s easy to forget that as our stress levels spike, our productivity plummets. Stress can zap our concentration, make us irritable or depressed, and harm our personal and professional relationships.

Over time, stress also weakens our immune systems, and makes us susceptible to a variety of ailments from colds to backaches to heart disease. The newest research shows that chronic stress can actually double our risk of having a heart attack. That statistic alone is enough to raise your blood pressure! Read more at MHANational.com.

“EITHER YOU RUN THE DAY, OR THE DAY RUNS YOU.” – Jim Rohn

Daily Message from Acceler8Success Founder, Paul Segreto

Time flies by so quickly which makes it hard not to look back as opposed to focusing on what lies ahead. It has me thinking that while living through this Coronavirus pandemic and maybe even more so because of the crisis and the new normal, it’s time to pull the trigger on a few things, or just cast them aside… but it’s time to act now, not soon, but now.

I must commit so I can focus on what needs to get done as I truly want to minimize regrets, and maybe even offset some of the regrets I already have from past experience and events. I owe it and much more to the people that have helped me and have had faith in me to this point and to those who depend upon me moving forward. I cannot and will not let them down.

Of course, I want to enjoy what the future brings, whatever that may be and know that whatever is in store for me I’ll know I’ve acted upon my vision and either made my dreams come true or at the very least made necessary changes – all instrumental in building the ship and mapping out its course that my loved ones could continue the journey and reap the rewards of my vision, my dreams.

I’ve experienced failure in the past. I’ve changed and re-invented myself several times before, and to great success. So, enough is enough, it’s time to do it again. This current challenge, is just that, a challenge. It’s time to get around it, over it or through it and make things happen. I’m ready to be back in control, as opposed to being a victim and allowing circumstances to be, well, an excuse.

Listen to my interview about my past failure experience on Franchise Today podcast.

Why Entrepreneurship Is an Effective Path to Happiness (and How to Get Started)

According to Positive Psychologist Shawn Achor, happiness isn’t about smiley faces and pretty rainbows (whatever that even means). In reality, happiness is “the joy we feel striving after our potential”.

Most of us live out our life thinking that there is some magical pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, that if you work hard to achieve “success” (whatever your definition for that is) you’ll arrive at some incredible gift that will make everything OK and fill you with bliss.

But what if we’ve got it wrong? What if happiness is really the journey itself, the very moving and striving towards your potential that ignites a fire in you that fills you with joy and fulfillment? Read more at GoalCast.com.

Outlaw FitCamp: A passion for changing lives

A lot of us find ourselves muddled when it comes to choosing the right place to work out. With so many big-box gyms, fitness studios, yoga classes, group classes, etc., it gets hard to decide which one will work. Hence, we find ourselves shuffling from one place to another until we find the one that feels like home. But why is it so difficult to make this choice in the first place.

To begin with it, apart from the basic criteria such as location, budget, and personal goal, it depends on the quality of services and environment offered by the facility to their customers. After that, it comes down to the results and the level of engagement, enjoyment, and satisfaction in the training sessions. For instance, one of the downsides of choosing fitness studios is the repetitive and humdrum routines that pose the risk of getting injuries and hitting the plateau despite offering personalized attention with specifically designed and structured classes. That’s exactly where Outlaw FitCamp, an indoor bootcamp and personal training brand, differentiates itself. Read the interview at Aspioneer.com with Outlaw FitCamp Founder, Jesse James Leyva.

Four Tips for Female Entrepreneurs to Defeat Pandemic-Induced Worry and Anxiety

The coronavirus pandemic has brought stress to an all-time high for many people. Besides the health concerns of COVID-19, women business owners face many other challenges as their businesses and home lives have turned upside down. As a mom of four and CEO of a company, I empathize with women trying to do it all in the new normal. In this post, I’ll share some of my own personal and professional strategies for navigating through the fear and uncertainty of the pandemic. Read more at SCORE.org.

Most individuals appear know the difference between playing to win and playing not lose. Yet, many still find themselves working to just survive instead of driving themselves to succeed. Why is that?

The best questions to ask entrepreneurs that will help you grow

Asking questions is an important part of growing as a person and as a business. In the business world, there is a common misconception that asking questions is a sign of weakness and that you’re not smart enough. That is not true. Studies have shown that asking well-thought-out questions is a sign of intelligence. It’s also one of the traits successful people have in common.

Asking the right questions to entrepreneurs can lead you to the business or career of your dreams. It also offers you an opportunity to learn from other people’s mistakes so you don’t repeat them. It’s also the quickest way to learn what works and what doesn’t. Read more at MentorCruise.com.

Getting Over Common Startup Financial Hurdles

As the owner of a new business, it’s natural to have a variety of fears. Though all of them require your attention, those associated with funding should move to the top of your priority list.

Money, or rather, lack thereof, is one of the primary reasons that startups dissolve before they get up and running. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 20% of small businesses in the United States fail within one year of opening. And by the five-year mark, roughly 50% are no longer operating.

With this in mind, it’s critical to understand the common financial challenges you’ll face as a business owner and the steps you can take to avoid them. Check out the five steps that deserve your attention at SmallBizDaily.com.

Why Women Entrepreneurs Are Critical To Economic Growth

A McKinsey Global Institute study found that advancing women’s equality could add $12 trillion to the global economy by 2025. In a best-case scenario, that number could jump to $28 trillion dollars. “This impact is roughly equivalent to the size of the combined Chinese and US economies today,” according to the report. And it could be realized by ensuring greater equality and opportunities for women.

Instead of governments looking for foreign direct investments and tax cuts to grow their economy, I believe they should focus more on policies to advance women’s participation. Why? Because women are often at a disadvantage. Read more at Forbes.com.

New Small Business Report Has Silver Lining

A new State of Small Business Report has been released by Alignable and though it offers some bleak findings, there is some good news too. The report finds small business optimism has emerged around several of President Biden’s PPP changes, and the new May timeline for widespread vaccine distribution. This shift in vaccine availability should help 28% more small businesses to recover in 2021, according to the Alignable poll taken during the first week of March.

However, Alignable’s report reveals that 78% of all small businesses are still experiencing negative financial effects (up 10% from last month). And 58% report feeling significant impact (up 12% from Feb.). Read more at Franchising.com.

“When it comes to success, a great many people say ‘Why me?’ when the most successful people in life say, ‘Why not me?’“

The State of Franchising, Winter 2021: Franchisor Survey Analysis

Our latest Pulse of the Franchise Industry survey finds cautious optimism is the outlook of the hour for franchisors ready to get back to better days of doing business in the months ahead.

The study, conducted in February, garnered the feedback of 155 franchise executives on various topics related to continued pandemic-related disruption, franchise sales, recovery, and future growth plans amid vaccine rollout efforts.

The survey participants, a majority with more than 10 years of franchising experience, represented eight industry sectors: Commercial/residential services, Retail Food Products & Services, Quick-Service Restaurants (QSR), Personal Services, Business Services, Real Estate, Full-Service Restaurants, and self-described “Other.”

So, what does the survey tell us? Quick-hit analysis reveals most franchisors appear to have put the worst of the economic fallout behind them, as they continue to emerge on the other side of the pandemic after a year of operational chaos. Read more at blog.Franconnect.com.

Cannabis use both helps and hurts entrepreneurial creativity

The study found that cannabis-using entrepreneurs generated new business ideas such as a weightless, gravity-free virtual reality workout, that were more original, but less feasible, compared to those who do not use cannabis.

“Originality and feasibility are both crucial in entrepreneurship — one without the other limits potential value creation,” said Benjamin Warnick, lead author of the study and assistant professor in the Department of Management, Information Systems and Entrepreneurship at the WSU Carson College of Business. Read more at ScienceDaily.com.

Daily Message from Acceler8Success Founder, Paul Segreto

Listening to friends that have coached me through challenges I’m gaining more confidence in realizing that a clear mind and well-rested body enables me to get more things done than I’ve ever imagined possible. Unfortunately, it easy to slide back into old habits, but knowing and acting upon what must be done to get back on track are essential to regaining and maintaining balance. As the end of the first quarter is just ahead and the economy is opening up once again, it is definitely the time to get back on track in order to realize possibilities and capitalize on opportunities.

Top Risks for Small Business Owners

Every business faces risks. Risk is the chance that a loss, injury, or peril will occur, or that an outcome will differ from what the business owner expected, often preventing a company from meeting its financial or operational goals. 

 If business owners identify the risks most likely to affect their company, they can take steps to minimize the effects. Risks may be external or internal, with external risks originating outside a firm, and internal risks arising from within. Learn about the external and internal risks companies may face this year and how they can be managed. Read more at TheBalanceSMB.com.

How Entrepreneurs Can Solve the Higher Education Problem

Higher education is in need of a transformation. The trifecta of tuition inflation, increasing student debt and diminishing confidence in the value of a traditional degree leaves the industry ripe for reimagination. Federally subsidized 2- or 4-year college degrees have been discussed as part of a new agenda to help increase access to education. Yet, companies also have the unique opportunity to play a role in increasing equitable access to higher education — and their businesses can benefit as a result.

Corporate America already spends more than $180 billion annually on educating and training employees, but most business leaders don’t experience a significant return on the investment. Instead, most training programs are poorly aligned with business and learner objectives, such as addressing specific skills gaps or improving employee recruiting and retention. Read more at Entrepreneur.com.

7 Ways Successful Entrepreneurs Refuel Over the Weekend

As entrepreneurs, we don’t treat weekends like other people do. When the concept of a weekend began, it was because the workweek (Monday through Friday) was supposed to be for labor, and the weekend (Saturday and Sunday) was dedicated to rest. 

However, when you’re an entrepreneur, you’re always on. The weekend just means two more work days, and many aren’t dedicating any time to rest. But when we start burning the candle at both ends—eliminating all chances for rest and recuperation—we start working against ourselves and snuffing out our creative energy. Read more at Success.com.

The Pandemic Sparks an Entrepreneurial Boom

When the pandemic hit, Eric Girouard ’08 had a decision to make.

For two years, he had been working on his venture, Brunt Workwear, a seller of work boots, clothes, and accessories. The launch date of the business was approaching, but some of his early investors wanted Girouard to push it back a year because of the pandemic’s uncertainty.

Girouard wasn’t convinced. “They didn’t understand my customer,” he says. Girouard knew that Brunt’s core customer, construction workers, were still on the job, and that Brunt’s more affordable prices for work gear would be more appealing during a time of economic recession.

Brunt ended up launching in September. “We pushed forward even more aggressively than we had originally planned,” says Girouard, Brunt’s founder and CEO.

Brunt is just one of many, many businesses that have launched during the pandemic. Despite the tumult of the past year, entrepreneurs have not been scared away from pursuing their startups. On the contrary, entrepreneurial activity has seen a sharp uptick. Read more at Entrepreneurship.Babson.edu/.

4 Tests Your Startup Must Pass to Win Capital

Is it too difficult for CEOs to persuade the right people with money to invest in their companies?

Leaders struggle with many questions:

• Can they find investors who can best help them realize their vision?
• If so, what is the best way to frame their business strategy to persuade them to invest? 
• If not, how should they change their business strategy to attract capital?

Leaders can answer these questions in a way that streamlines the capital-raising process if they can pass four tests. In this article the author describes the tests and present examples from recent interviews he conducted. Read more at Inc.com.

2021 Poised to be the Year of the Franchise Entrepreneur.

2020 was nobody’s year; we’re all glad to see it in the rear view mirror. But 2021 promises to be a much better year for almost everyone, especially business owners. Economists predict a booming economy for the second two quarters of the year as vaccinations allow reopening and pent-up demand for goods and services roars to life.

If you’ve ever considered leaving your job and starting up a business, this could be your year. Many executives leave their corporate careers to start new ventures, and 2020 certainly made many of them rethink their life plans for the future. Some are seeking more autonomy; some are looking for a way to take charge of their own long-term financial security. Read more at WhatTheFranchise.com.

Houston-based Pepperoni’s continues to grow through the pandemic with 16 locations now open and an additional 17 franchises in development. The brand projects 50+ franchises awarded in 2021 as it expands beyond the Greater Houston Area to all corners of the Lone Star State including major cities, smaller markets and college towns.

Initial investment from $153k with a weekly flat-fee royalty payment. Efficient real estate footprint. Area Development opportunities available. Low equity partnership opportunities for the right individuals. Text PIZZA to (832) 797-9851 to learn more.

Three Ways Post-Pandemic Customers Will Permanently Change the Restaurant Industry 

People have been both eager and hesitant to venture back out into the world as stay-at-home orders have lifted. However, a surge in hot spots means the dining experience will continually evolve. Maintaining strict social distancing protocols is more important than ever. Some of these changes have been a long time coming, while others surged in popularity at the height of the pandemic.  

Restaurants have adopted a delivery/pickup model to meet the needs of their customers. In fact, 70 percent of consumers are ordering takeout directly from restaurants amidst the pandemic. As consumers cautiously begin to eat out at local restaurants, this new model will likely remain popular. This has created an increased demand for food running and delivery jobs that didn’t exist before. Read more at ModernRestaurantManagement.com.

Daily Message from Acceler8Success Founder, Paul Segreto

We certainly have had a lot of time to think as the Coronavirus changed life as we knew it. It has made us realize that life is too short. As we [finally] emerge from this experience our outlook and perspective may have changed along with our goals. We may end up making promises to ourselves that’ll help spearhead our motivation. We may actually better understand our Why(s) in life and what is truly important to us.

Quite possibly, we may become better individuals as a result of the time we’ve spent alone… a forced sentence of sorts, to truly understand what it is we actually want out of life that previously may have seemed to be on the back burner because we believed we didn’t have or couldn’t make time. It’s often said, things happen for a reason. Well, there may be more truth to that than we’ve ever realized before. I guess, it’ll come down to what we make of it.

The ‘New Normal’ Is Now: How to Adapt Your Business for the Future, Focusing on Today

In more than one article referring to The Crisis we have read about how we should adapt to a new normal, as if it were a stage that begins when the crisis ends. While it is true that there are stages in the development of crises (resolve, resist, return, reimagine and reform, according to McKinsey), it is also true that today, even with the current crisis, things are very different from just a year ago and we must adapt to a world in which, for now at least, the only constant is change.

It is time to let go of the past and actively address circumstances, aware that this will require continuously transforming our companies to adapt them to new market conditions.

To help you do this, focus on the following five key actions outline by the author. Read more at Entrepreneur.com.

A Heartwarming Story About Opportunity in America (Shared from Jesse Iwuji on Linkedin)

My mom used to fetch water from rivers at age 11 to bring home to help provide water for her family in Nigeria. My dad brought her to America from Nigeria with 0 dollars to her name and she was a hotel maid at age 23. My dad came to America with barely any money in his pocket and got essentially robbed by a crooked Cab driver immediately when he arrived. But just because you start with nothing, doesn’t mean the rest of life will be nothing…Since then they’ve had 4 kids, excelled in their career fields, and owned small businesses on the side. After coming to America years ago with nothing, my parents just closed on this house. If you tell me there’s no opportunity in America I’m going to tell you my parents story.

Some will say “Nice story, but hard work is not always rewarded”. I challenge you with this: Understand that desire is different than Ambition. We all desire success, but do we all have the ambition to achieve it? Denzel Washington once said we often confuse movement with progress, and that just because you’re doing a lot doesn’t mean you’re getting a lot done…toward your dream.

The Surprising Power of Growth Mindset in Reducing Stress

Stress is the defining affliction of modern life — ubiquitous, unending, and seemingly unavoidable.

Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be this way. By understanding the neuroscience of how it operates, we can learn to target stress at its source. At NLI, one part of this involves helping leaders develop a growth mindset – the belief that challenges are opportunities to improve, not threats to status or identity.

When employees develop a growth mindset, research suggests they’ll enjoy a much greater advantage when stressful situations come their way. Read more at Neuroleadership.com.

Do These 7 Things to Get (and Stay) Motivated

How do you stay motivated and inspired? How can you keep your passion, your excitement, fired up? First things first… Make a decision to go all the way to the top. Up to now, you’ve thought about it. Up to now, it’s passed your mind. But now make up your mind to go all the way to the top, and your life will take off. It’s the most extraordinary thing.

Your life is like a shadow going up the dark side of a hill—until the moment you decide that “I’m going to be the best at what I do.” And suddenly you rise into the sunshine, and your life is forever after different—wonderful. Get serious. Don’t fool around anymore. Read more at Success.com.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Daily Message from Acceler8Success Founder, Paul Segreto

Again and again, I learn about someone who had committed suicide. As always the case, it finds me thinking about what may have been going through that person’s mind.

Personally, I can only imagine the ‘noise’ being experienced without being able to control the volume either to drown it out or to hear it better. It’s like what we’ve all done at one time or another… turning up the volume on the car radio when hearing a noise that wouldn’t go away or that couldn’t be identified or when turning up the volume was just to hear something more clearly, and at times, just because a certain song was playing — sometimes stirring up memories. There could be other reasons.

There are also times the volume is cranked up to ‘disappear’ into deep, personal thought, essentially, to just get lost in the moment. However, turning up the volume could possibly be a form of denial akin to putting one’s head in the sand. Isn’t it interesting that similar actions are done for various reasons and possibly, for different results? Yet, the action taken is often done impulsively without nary a thought as to the action being taken and certainly with no thought as to the consequences thereafter.

Here is a quote about suicide from an episode of Yellowstone as John Dutton tries to reason with his son, Jamie who is sitting alone in a field with a gun in his hand…

John Dutton : “You know the thing about suicide, you don’t just kill yourself. You kill every memory of you. This’ll be all everyone remembers, Jamie. Every second you spent on this earth will be reduced to how you chose to leave it.
Ultimately, how do we help others to help them think through what it is that’s on their minds before it’s too late? How do we help others toward better mental health, a necessity for better decision-making and in understanding and managing emotions? Of course, I really don’t know. It’s just hard to grasp the why in these situations. It’s all difficult to comprehend.“

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1–800–273–8255

How to Start a Business in 2021 Debt-Free

Everyone associates entrepreneurship with hard work and oftentimes, debt. For many small business owners just starting out, this is probably the case. While hard work may be unavoidable, there is a funding solution that can help ease financial burdens.

What’s the solution? In a word, ROBS. So, what Is ROBS Funding?

It’s a common misconception that you can only use your retirement funds to purchase investments like publicly traded stocks, bonds, or mutual funds. In reality, you can use most retirement plans to buy a business—tax-deferred and penalty-free.

Known as a ROBS (Rollover as Business Start-ups) strategy, this funding solution is designed using long-standing provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) which allows entrepreneurs to use money from a qualified retirement plan to purchase or recapitalize a business. This program is similar to buying stock in a public company, except instead you’re investing in your own privately held company. Read more at Benetrends.com.

How to See Beyond Your Past When Creating a Business

I see Ava Johanna, a spiritual business coach and meditation coach, on the other side of my Zoom screen. She looks like Malibu Barbie and has a charming, purposeful glow. As we begin our interview, her husband pops in and asks if she’d like a sandwich. She peers up and says, “Just a half one.”

The ease with which she accepts the sandwich is simple yet poignant enough to make me think about her core message: Everything we desire is possible, as long as we’re open to receiving the abundance that the universe is willing and eager to give us. Johanna and her husband manifested their dream home just a few days before our interview. This is a huge milestone for anyone but for Johanna, having a near oceanside home is even more meaningful. Some 15 years ago, Johanna was living in Los Angeles in a completely different dimension. She was homeless. At age 16, Johanna and her family were evicted from their house, their car was repossessed, and they bounced from friend’s house to friend’s house for over 18 months in the Calabasas/Agoura area. Read more at Entrepreneur.com.

“When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive, to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love, then make that day count!” – Steve Maraboli, ‘Life, the Truth, and Being Free’

Texas Led Nation in Economic Development Wins in 2020, According to Site Selection

Texas continues to dominate the nation when it comes to total economic development project wins, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Lone Star State took the top spot for the ninth year in a row on Site Selection Magazine’s list of best performing states for economic development by total number of projects. That’s earned Texas the publication’s Governor’s Cup award once again. 

Texas logged 781 projects in 2020, down from 859 qualifying projects the year before but still more than any other state as the U.S. grappled with the effects of the pandemic. Read more at Houston.org.

With many individuals, families and corporations relocating to Texas, it’s no wonder Texas is a hotbed for entrepreneurship and business ownership. If you’re interested in exploring the business landscape and opportunities within the Lone Star State, please contact us for a complimentary consultation. Text “TEXAS” to (832) 797-9851 or send an email to info@franchisefoundry.com.

A Simple Trick to Boost Your Productivity

Prioritizing is essential to success and happiness, but systems for prioritizing can be convoluted. Just using the system can suck away energy from actually getting things done.

Here’s a simple way to prioritize: Of all the things you currently have the energy for, do the thing you’re normally least likely to do. Read more at PsychologyToday.com.

Cold shower? The routine of the most productive people when they wake up! (Author: Daniel Colombo)

Perhaps for those who are used to saying to themselves when they wake up “five more minutes” when the alarm goes off under the fluffy duvet and the warmth of the bed, this idea seems far-fetched. However, it is not something new and many of the most productive executives in the world apply it: get up immediately, without hesitation, very early, and take a cold shower.

This is a practice known since ancient times: Hippocrates, the Greek doctor born in 460 BC, considered the greatest of all time, recommended it to his patients as a remedy for many diseases. At this time, Cristiano Ronaldo was one of the first athletes to refer to his practice of taking cold showers for muscle recovery; And also the singer and actress Lady Gaga was shown in photos in a variant of the cold shower: she takes ice baths. Read more at Entrepreneur.com.

Daily Message from Acceler8Success Founder, Paul Segreto

“It’s not unusual to see your stress and anxiety levels rise during stressful, challenging times. When you feel these levels rise – slow down, breathe slowly, breathe deeply. Separate yourself from the moment – get up from your desk, take a walk, listen to music, go sit in a different chair and close your eyes or just stand outside and distract yourself with sights and sounds of nature. Feel the warmth of the sun on your face. Allow your mind to drift to your happy place. Smile. Do this for 20-30 minutes and you’ll find yourself relaxed and with a sharper mind. You’ll also find the ability to circumvent the thing or situation that interrupted your focus in the first place. Have a great day. Make it happen. Make it count!”

3 Tips On Surviving The Entrepreneur Roller Coaster (Author Celinne Da Costa)

Frank Song is a former Wall Street investment banker, private equity investor and confidential strategy advisor to businesses, high-net worth individuals and politicians. He believes that controlling your emotions is vital to succeeding in business. From sleeping on the floor at Walmart to becoming the founder of an eight-figure international business conglomerate, he shares: “Emotional control is one of the most critical factors to not only surviving the entrepreneurial roller coaster, but to thriving in it. This is for one simple reason: it is the foundation of being able to make good judgement calls,” he says. Read more at Forbes.com.

Creating Boundaries When You are Launching Your Business (Regina Lawrence, All the THINGS podcast)

During today’s episode Regina Lawrence talks all about creating boundaries in your business. She talks about the importance of your “why”, how to set boundaries and how to communicate your boundaries. Regina chats about:

• Why it’s important to focus on your “why” when creating boundaries
• How to actually create boundaries in your business and personal life
• How to communicate boundaries to the people around us
• and so much more!

Listen to this episode at All the THINGS podcast.

The Crisis According to Albert Einstein

“Let’s not pretend that things will change if we keep doing the same things. A crisis can be a real blessing to any person, to any nation. For all crises bring progress…

Creativity is born from anguish, just like the day is born form the dark night. It’s in crisis that inventive is born, as well as discoveries, and big strategies. Who overcomes crisis, overcomes himself, without getting overcome. Who blames his failure to a crisis neglects his own talent, and is more respectful to problems than to solutions. Incompetence is the true crisis…

The greatest inconvenience of people and nations is the laziness with which they attempt to find the solutions to their problems. There’s no challenge without a crisis. Without challenges, life becomes a routine, a slow agony. There’s no merit without crisis. It’s in the crisis where we can show the very best in us. Without a crisis, any wind becomes a tender touch. To speak about a crisis is to promote it. Not to speak about it is to exalt conformism. Let us work hard instead…

Let us stop, once and for all, the menacing crisis that represents the tragedy of not being willing to overcome it.”

Acceler8Success: Connecting the Right Brands, People & Opportunities

The uncertainty of 2020 created the perfect time to diversify and expand. After all, it’s been said that necessity is the mother of invention. To that end, Acceler8Success Group was formed mid-year, building upon Acceler8Success principles and methods that have proven successful since 2014.

Widely recognized as industry leaders & experts, Acceler8Success Group leadership have extensive experience as entrepreneurs in small business & restaurants, as senior-level executives within nationally recognized brands, and as franchisees within successful franchise systems. 

Members of Acceler8Success Group along with Strategic Partners have earned designation as Certified Franchise Executives, Certified Franchise Brokers, Certified Business Brokers and Commercial Real Estate Brokers. Positioned to deliver services within the U.S., Canada and other Global markets, languages spoken include: English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, German and Russian.  Learn more at www.Acceler8Success.com

3 Tips From Founders for Preserving Your Mental Health (Author: Joely Simon)

After only six weeks of working in his company’s newly purchased office space, Isaac Rudansky, founder and CEO of AdVenture Media Group, sent his employees home to avoid the spread of Covid-19. He lost 35 percent of his clients in the first three weeks of the pandemic.”I’m actually an optimistic person, but this was a really dark period,” he says. “Oftentimes, when you’re dealing with feelings of depression and stress, it’s impossible to look at a longer horizon.” 

So rather than look forward, Rudansky looked back at the past five years. Even through the peaks and valleys, he saw that his life and career had trended in a positive direction.  That perspective gave him the confidence to move forward. Read more at Inc.com.

How Business Owners Thrive in Uncertain Times Using The 80% Plan (Author: Melanie Benson)

No matter how good an entrepreneur is at planning out their growth steps, sometimes life throws a curve ball. A family illness or death can derail an owner’s focus for months. An unexpected economic downturn such as the 2009 credit debacle can change people’s buying patterns overnight. A launch that was planned meticulously fails, and with that failure a significant financial windfall goes up in smoke. Or, as we saw in 2020, a global pandemic can put the entire world into a tailspin, shutting down in-person experiences and multiple industries for over a year. Read more.

Daily Message From Acceler8Success Founder, Paul Segreto

“I continue to be amazed that some people, and more than you might imagine will go to great lengths to intentionally convince others their ideas or what they’re doing won’t work. Their actions are based upon some deep jealousy or envy that they’re not involved or doing it themselves or even just had the initial ideas or contribution to the same but never acted upon it. Instead of showing support with words of encouragement or helping to champion the ideas on behalf of the friend or colleague or offering another set of eyes and ears should the need occur, they work extra hard to cast negativity, often proactively, almost as a campaign of sorts – yet, still trying to come across as a trusted friend or colleague. I wonder how many fantastic ideas have gone by the wayside as a result of these selfish actions. So, I highly recommend to stay committed to your ideas, believing in your own thought process and thoroughly evaluating opinion, suggestions and recommendations of others, and taking them with a grain of salt or heeding their advice as your gut feeling let’s you know which path to follow. Listen to your initial thoughts and follow your intuition. More importantly, follow your vision and fuel your passion with relentless commitment because that’s what it will take to turn your ideas into successful endeavors. Remember, don’t let anyone take away your dreams.”

12 Resources and Communities Entrepreneurs Should Follow for Industry Insight and Tips (Small Business Trends: The Young Entrepreneur Council)

Staying tuned in to the pulse of your industry is key to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Public groups, online forums and the like are among the most valuable resources for gathering and contributing industry information. But if someone is looking for in-depth insight into their business niche, locating the right groups where this discussion occurs is the first step. To help you find them, 12 members of Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) respond to the following question:

“What’s one public-facing online group (e.g. a specific Facebook group, forum, etc.) that you recommend entrepreneurs follow for industry insight, business management tips, growth hacks, etc., and why?”

Things Women Entrepreneurs Need to Do (Author: Meena Ganesh)

Amidst all the challenges and obstacles brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been one positive aspect: a reset – a global one at that. The temporary pause has given the world an opportunity to reflect and deliberate on several things. From observing clearer skies during the lockdown to #BlackLivesMatter, many things that probably were taken for granted in a normal course came to the fore. The other catalysing change during the pandemic has been the acceptance of remote working models, and shift to digital interactions, all of which have brought about a levelling of the business environment – especially for women. Women entrepreneurs have emerged and how with their sheer passion, in-depth understanding of customer needs, and the thirst to excel in what they do.There are certain things which have proven effective over time for successful women entrepreneurs of today and can play a key role in business growth for the emerging leaders across industries. Read more.

Surge of Startups: Entrepreneurs Emerge During Pandemic (Author: Pafoua Yang)

A recent study says Americans started 4.4 million business last year, that’s 24% more than the year before. The New York Times reports the coronavirus crisis may have sparked a boom in U.S. entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurial growth is also happening in the northwest suburbs (Minneapolis). Those facing economic downturn and job loss are now becoming their own boss. Read more.

With many individuals, families and corporations relocating to Texas, it’s no wonder Texas continues to be a hotbed for entrepreneurship and business ownership. If you’re interested in exploring the business landscape and opportunities within the Lone Star State, please contact Franchise Foundry for a complimentary consultation. Text “TEXAS” to (832) 797-9851 or send an email to info@franchisefoundry.com.

How Two Female Entrepreneurs Managed To Grow Their Business During Covid-19 (Author: Jennifer “Jay” Palumbo)

Between 1997 and 2017, the number of women-owned businesses increased by 114%, a rate 2.5 times higher than the national average. Although women-owned firms represent 39% of all companies, they’re responsible for only 8% of employment and 4% of revenues. This is particularly noteworthy given the recent report, which stated 140K job losses for women this past December due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

For many women, having transversal skills and an entrepreneurial mind can help keep them employed and enable the further advancement of increasing the number of females in leadership roles. Read more.

Hustling Entrepreneur Strives to Build an Empire Following the Footsteps of His Family

Michael Russo is the ultimate embodiment of a “hustler.” Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, Michael was intrigued at how his father, both grandfathers, and uncles could make a living at their own pace. He aimed to achieve the same flexibility and have time in his hands. But unlike those before him in his family, Michael wanted to be the “new age entrepreneur,” tackling several industries simultaneously with tenacity and passion.

Michael saw the importance of hard work at an early age. Having seen his family strive in small businesses such as construction, automotive repair, and real estate, he wanted to explore the world of entrepreneurship with a bigger picture in mind. As a first-generation college student, Michael wanted to build a legacy that would honor the great men in his family. Read more.

Learn How to Start a Successful Side Hustle From This Business Executive, Investor, and Entrepreneur

In a year in which many businesses were forced to close temporarily and government assistance to small businesses was far from satisfactory, 2020 was a year to test ingenuity. For some, that means turning to a side hustle. There is no shortage of ways that people make extra money on the side, so if you have a skill-set, there’s a good chance you can turn it into more cash. Read more.

How To Hustle Your Way To Becoming A Successful Entrepreneur

If you’re working in corporate America, chances are you don’t love your job.

Gallup reports that only 29% of millennials are engaged at work, while the vast majority of workers are disconnected emotionally and behaviorally from their jobs. While 43% of millennials who leave their corporate jobs say it’s because they weren’t following their passion, 42% say the corporate lifestyle wasn’t for them, and 33% say they felt too restricted.

As one former corporate employee puts it, “I was compromising my life and compromising my purpose to achieve success. I was making all this money, but I had no time to spend it, no time to take care of myself, and no time to spend with my friends and family.” Read more.

Trends for Mexican Entrepreneurs to Maintain Digital Momentum in 2021

2020 will be framed as a “unique” year in history. While the year that just ended presented us with significant challenges in almost every aspect of our lives, it also tested our capacities and resilience in the face of adversity. For many, this year gave us the motivation to take the next step in our business.

During 2020, small business owners and entrepreneurs across Mexico were forced into a digital acceleration as more consumers began to use digital channels to make their purchases and stay connected to the outside world. These tough times created a window for businesses of all sizes to consider entering the digital world to reap its benefits in a new and somewhat uncertain economy. Read more.

Why Every Entrepreneur Needs to be Savvy in Digital Marketing in Order to Survive

Entrepreneurship has evolved. There used to be a time where you could open up a local business in town and turn a hefty profit with hard work, dedication, and financial management skills.

Today, your blood, sweat, and tears are not enough to keep your business afloat. You need to get familiar with the concepts of digital marketing if you want to survive. This holds true for all businesses across every industry. Read more.

What are Some Technological Challenges Entrepreneurs Face During Marketing?

It is no hidden fact that technology has significantly impacted every aspect of the business world. To be more precise, you may say technology disrupts every facet of the business realm; thus, consumers are getting distracted by digital media. The more intricately consumers get connected, the more problems it creates for entrepreneurs to entice them to become loyal to their products and services.

Most marketers and entrepreneurs were unprepared for this kind of technological onslaught; therefore, they are still struggling to reorganize their ventures to match up with the pace of technological advancement. There is no doubt that technology has become a driving factor in pushing your business forward. Still, at the same time, it is becoming highly competitive due to increasing interconnectedness, says Eric Dalius. Read more.

A Message from Acceler8Success Founder, Paul Segreto

Think different. Accelerate success by thinking so far outside the box that your ideas stand alone within a spotlight that causes people to question possibilities as if the idea, outlandish as it may appear could truly make such a significant positive impact that it would literally ‘force’ them to consider a whole new realm of possibilities. Are you open to possibilities, but don’t know where to start? Take a few minutes to watch this Apple video.

7 Productivity Hacks from 7 Successful Entrepreneurs

Many successful entrepreneurs, including founders of multi-billion dollar companies, got to where they are through a combination of unique idea generation and hard work. Naturally, most of us aspire to achieve something similar—even if we can’t hope to replicate that scale.

That’s one reason why I like to read and discover some of the unique productivity hacks, habits, and behaviors that helped those successful entrepreneurs achieve their status. Read more.

Entrepreneurship is not about sitting around with a laptop and thinking about ideas; it’s about understanding risks and downside.

From law to VC to entrepreneurship, Liat Aaronson, former executive director of the Zell Entrepreneurship Program and co-founder of Horizen Labs, has explored a variety of unique industries and leadership roles throughout her career. Aaronson is an M&A lawyer by trade, and though she loved working through the challenges that the field presented, she soon developed a desire to find a position where she could leave a greater impact. After leaving the legal world, Aaronson joined the Zell Entrepreneurship Program team and helped talented young students transition into the professional world. Aaronson thoroughly enjoyed supporting and learning from the entrepreneurs she worked with and decided to further pursue her passion for entrepreneurship with Horizen Labs. Liat sat down for an interview with 20MinuteLeaders creator Michael Matias and told him about the knowledge she has amassed across various sectors and her plans of using her expertise to grow and scale her business. Read more.

How this 21-year old entrepreneur uses social media to revolutionize your business’ sales.

2020 has been filled with challenges and opportunities alike, with many ambitious entrepreneurs and businesses recognizing the niches begging to be filled with the increasing shift to digital trading and services. Though the demand for connectivity is great, not many of these ideas have the space or foundation to grow and thrive under these conditions. eGrowth Media, a UK based marketing agency, helps many established and developing businesses make the transition to the digital sphere, connecting brands to their audiences and increasing profits through through the effective use of social media tools. Read more.

Facts About Second Round of PPP Loans

First Time PPP Loan Borrower Requirements

Businesses in operation on February 15, 2020; sole proprietors, independent contractors, and other entities with less than 500 employee that qualify for other SBA 7(a) loans

Second Draw Borrower Qualifications

Loans up to $2M; less than 300 employees; have already used the full amount of their first PPP Loan; have experienced a revenue reduction in all or any one quarter of 2020 as compared to same time period in 2019

It should be a simple process but don’t delay or you may miss out. More Info.

What Movies Get Wrong about Entrepreneurs

Being an entrepreneur isn’t for everyone, especially those that might have ambitions to make money but don’t want to take the massive risks that some folks end up taking on a regular basis. But there are several things that the movies tend to get wrong about entrepreneurs that some people happen to think is correct simply because we like to think the worst about those that reach the top sometimes. It’s very true that some of these individuals might have shady pasts and have done a few things that are less than savory in the business sense, and are bereft of the morals that other people claim to value. But the trick here is that in business there are times when morals tend to get in the way when it comes to some folks and the desire to move ahead means cutting out those that might otherwise prove to be a hindrance to a company’s growth. The thing about being an entrepreneur however it doesn’t require a person to be morally bankrupt, and it certainly doesn’t mean that someone is going to be rich overnight. In a lot of ways the movies cut a number of things out and give us the drama and issues that can happen but aren’t always bound to happen. Read more.

A guide to rebuilding your small business for Latino entrepreneurs

The Covid-19 crisis has hit Latino small businesses particularly hard, including not being able to access PPP funding at a similar rate to other business owners. And many individual proprietors or small, family-owned businesses may feel the impact of Covid more directly, as the pandemic has disproportionately impacted the Latino community.

If you’re a Latino entrepreneur or small business owner, know that you’re not alone, and that there are tools, funding, and mentorship available to help you succeed through this crisis. Below, we’ve compiled a list of some essential tools that can help Latino small business owners rebuild and thrive. Read more.

A Message from Acceler8Success Founder, Paul Segreto

Regardless of challenging times it’s still necessary to get things done. So, act swiftly, act decisively, make it happen and make it count. That is the path to accelerate success. #Acceler8Success