Erica Seppala

Come prepared to your tax meeting by knowing exactly what information your accountant needs to file your small business taxes.

For smaller creators looking for a more seller-friendly platform on which to host their campaigns, Podia isn’t a realistic alternative; the monthly cost is simply too high.

Are you ready for small business tax season? Here are our expert tips and a free tax prep checklist to help you get your taxes in order.

Small business owners searching for a merchant cash advance (MCA) or short-term business loan (STL) are often surprised to learn that their capital has come with a very high effective annual percentage rate (APR) that’s sometimes in the triple digits.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) provides a number of loan programs designed to help small businesses grow. SBA loans are known for having some of the lowest interest rates available. We’ll explain the rates for three of the SBA’s most popular loan programs: 7(a) Loans (business loans for most general business purposes), CDC/504 Loans (business loans to finance real estate and other fixed assets), and Disaster Loans (loans to rebuild following a disaster).

Popular crowdfunding platform Patreon has become less popular recently thanks to policy changes. Monetizing your work online has long been a challenge, but there are good options out there. Let’s look at the several other great platforms for raising money from the public to support what you do.

Ulule is a crowdfunder that takes a hands-on approach with helping their campaigners achieve their goals. Be cautious of the over-complicated fees.

Wefunder is an equity crowdfunding platform for non-accredited investors and the biggest regulation crowdfunding platform. It is good for startups with exponential growth potential. However, keep in mind that Regulation Crowdfunding is legally complex.

Whether your nonprofit needs to raise funds, you want to throw the wedding of your dreams, or you need help with a family medical emergency, FundRazr is certainly worth a look. While not necessarily the place to raise millions of dollars for an innovative new startup (look to equity crowdfunding for that), it’s a great way to raise funds easily and for projects close to your heart.

A seasonal business isn’t without its risks and challenges, but if done right, can be rewarding and lucrative. You can get your business off the ground by doing your research, choosing the right business idea, and using the tools and resources available to you.