Creative Business Coach

New Blog

2009-07-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

Join me at http://www.creativebizcoach.wordpress.com

The Oprah Effect By Myra Roldan

2009-01-28T16:40:00.001-08:00

You know what they say, "Be careful what you wish for, 'cause you just might get it". As a small business owner, you imagine yourself making it big. You work long hours and make big sacrifices to get your business up and running. You do your research. You purchase every and any book on starting a business you can get your hands on that promises to guide you and hopefully help you avoid making any major blunders. The day comes and you get your really big break. Just don't count on things working out as planned.

New Designer Studio to Hit Vallejo in Feb 2009

2009-01-27T12:48:00.000-08:00

I am looking for crafters and designer who desire to teach others! Do you train/teach a craft or business skill?
Well then contact me ASAP to discuss an opportunity for you to teach others what you love to do...
To help launch our new craft studio I am willing to help you design your training materials...

We have the location and are willing to do the marketing...so contact me today.

urbancrafter@gmail.com

So Much Going on Where do You Start!

2008-08-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

Does it seem like there is to much going on and I don't just mean the price of gas and the housing market in the Bay Area.

The first goal is to get it out of my head and on paper where I can see it:

1. To all my artist/designers/crafters it is time to think about the holiday season and start to identify and resister for the craft show or events you want to participate in.

2. Networking Events are also a must - Have you schedule those? Note: Much easier to network during the holiday season...I wonder why?

3. Have you updated your business plan and cash flow projections for 2009? We are less then 4 months away from 2009...

4. Have you scheduled your quarterly "girls night out" ...

5. What workshops, seminars or classes must you take in 2008 to help your business in 2009. Remember every assets EXCEPT people loses value; the more you invest in your self the more value you add to your company...so sign up now.

6. What are your goals for 2009?

7. Stay focused...

8. Review you success for inspiration and your improvables for leaning.

9. Does your Marketing Plan need to be updated.

10. Schedule time for yourself.

Renegade Craft Fair - July 12 and 13th

2008-07-01T16:52:00.000-07:00

Di you know that the 1st Annual Renegade Craft Fair will be in SAN FRANCISCO!
The event will be held Saturday and Sunday July 12 + 13 from 11am - 7pm at Fort Mason's Festival Pavilion!

http://www.renegadecraft.com

Check out their Website and I'll "see" you there!

The Vendor and Sponsor list include:

ReadyMade
Esty
yelp and so...much MORE!

Follow the 5 First Steps When starting a new business in California

2008-04-25T12:15:00.000-07:00

Blogs Step 1 through 5 outline the key STEPs and external Resources for the State of California Websites. There are many important decisions to make and many rules and procedures that must be addressed. While there is no single source for all filing requirements, the following Blogs/Step have been developed to assist you in starting your business.

Disclaimer: The information and links to various websites, including various non-governmental sites, are provided for your convenience. The information on this website is constantly updated, however, there may be omissions or additional requirements not represented here. This is unintentional and does not exempt any individual or institution from complying with the laws and regulations of the State of California and the federal government. Inclusion of links to other websites is not an endorsement of those sites by the State of California or the federal government.

Therefore, your start-up cost should include funds to discuss key issues with a laywer and professional tax expert.

Step 1 - Develop and COMPLETE a Business Plan

2008-04-25T12:14:00.000-07:00

Step 1
It is helpful to begin with a business plan. A business plan is a blueprint of every aspect of your business. Sales, Marketing, Advertising, Promotion and Location are just some of the aspects of creating a plan. Click on the following link to the US Small Business Administration to find a tutorial on how to create a business plan. http://www.sba.gov/smallbusinessplanner/index.html

Yes you do need a Business Plan!

Step 2- Choose a Location

2008-04-25T12:13:00.000-07:00

Step 2
If you would like help deciding on a location for your business, visit the California Business Investment Services (CalBIS) section of the California Labor & Workforce Development Agency website. CalBIS provides tailored site selection services for businesses, real-estate executives, and site selection consultants.
http://labor.ca.gov/calBIS/

Step 3 - Choose a business structure

2008-04-25T12:12:00.000-07:00

Step 3
Select a business entity type from the following list for a brief overview of the principal types of legal business structures available in California. A legal representative and accountant should be consulted before making a determination as to the type of business entity to form.

Starting a Business in California http://www.sos.ca.gov/business/filings.htm

Once you decide to establish a business, a primary consideration is the type of business entity to form. Tax and liability issues, director and ownership concerns, as well as state and federal obligations pertaining to the type of entity should be considered when making your determination. Personal needs and the needs of your particular type of business should also be considered.

The following is a brief overview of various business structures. The information is intended to provide a basic understanding of the different business structures and is not intended to provide legal advice. It is strongly recommended you consult with a legal representative and accountant before making a determination as to the type of business entity to form:

1. Sole Proprietorship
2. Corporation
3. Limited Liability Company
4. Limited Partnership
5. General Partnership
6. Limited Liability Partnership

Sole Proprietorship
A sole proprietorship is set up to allow an individual to own and operate a business by him/herself. A sole proprietor has total control, receives all profits from and is responsible for taxes and liabilities of the business . If a sole proprietorship is formed with a name other than the individual's name (example: John Smiths Fishing Shop), a Fictitious Business Name Statement must be filed with the county where the principal place of business is located. To determine the applicable county agency where fictitious business names are filed, please refer to the list of California counties provided on the California State Association of Counties website. No formation documents are required to be filed with the Secretary of State. Other state filings may be required depending on the type of business.

Corporation
A domestic corporation (Articles of Incorporation) generally is a legal entity, which exists separately from its owners. While normally limiting the owners from personal liability, taxes are levied on the corporation as well as on the shareholders. The sale of stocks or bonds can generate additional capital and the longevity of the corporation can continue past the death of the owners. Legal Counsel should be consulted regarding the variety of options available for formulation.

Limited Liability Company
A domestic limited liability company (Domestic - LLC-1/Foreign - LLC-5) generally offers liability protection similar to that of a corporation but is taxed differently. Domestic limited liability companies may be managed by one or more managers or one or more members. In addition to filing the applicable documents with the Secretary of State, an operating agreement among the members as to the affairs of the limited liability company and the conduct of its business is required. The limited liability company does not file the operating agreement with the Secretary of State but maintains it at the office where the limited liability company's records are kept. Professional limited liability companies are restricted in California at this time.

Limited Partnership
A domestic limited partnership (Certificate of Partnership - LP-1) may provide limited liability for some partners. There must be at least one general partner that acts as the controlling partner while the liability of limited partners is normally limited to the amount of control or participation they have engaged in. General partners of a limited partnership have unlimited personal liability for the partnership's debts and obligation.
General Partnership

A general partnership (Statement of Partnership Authority - GP-1) must have two or more persons engaged in a business for profit. Except as otherwise provided by law, all partners are liable jointly and severally for all obligations of the partnership unless agreed by the claimant. Profits are taxed as personal income for the partners. Filing at the state level is optional.
Limited Liability Partnership

A limited liability partnership (Registration of Limited Liability Partnership - LLP-1) is a partnership that engages in the practice of public accountancy, the practice of law or the practice of architecture, or services related to accountancy or law. A limited liability partnership is required to maintain certain levels of insurance as required by law.

Step 4 - File your tax and employer identification documents

2008-04-25T12:10:00.000-07:00

Step 4

Business Programs Division
Tax Information

Several agencies in the State of California administer a variety of taxes. While other state and local agencies may issue permits and assess fees or taxes, the following is a list of state agencies that can assist you in determining your tax obligations and provide you with information about tax reporting and taxpayer rights.

For additional assistance with the tax aspects of your business, you may wish to attend one of the Small Business Fairs sponsored by:
1. The State Board of Equalization
2. Internal Revenue Service
3. Franchise Tax Board
4. Employment Development Department.

The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) administers personal and corporate income and franchise taxes for the State of California. If you have further questions, you can contact the Franchise Tax Board from inside the United States at (800) 852-5711 or from outside the United States at (916) 845-6500 (not toll-free) and select option 5 for operator assistance.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issues federal employer identification numbers and administers federal payroll taxes, including social security, Medicare, federal unemployment insurance and federal income tax withholding.
http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/index.html

The State Board of Equalization (BOE) issues seller's permits and is responsible for the administration and collection of the states sales and use, fuel, alcohol, tobacco, and other special taxes and fees. The BOE plays a significant role in California property tax assessment and administration. The BOE also acts as the appellate body for franchise and personal income tax appeals. For more information, call 1-800-400-7115. http://www.boe.ca.gov/

The Employment Development Department (EDD) issues employer account numbers (sometimes called state employer identification numbers, SEINs, state ID numbers, or reserve account numbers) and administers California's payroll taxes, including Unemployment Insurance, Employment Training Tax, State Disability Insurance, and California Personal Income Tax withholding.
http://www.edd.ca.gov/taxind.htm

Step 5: Businesses licenses or permits - External Resources for the State of California Website

2008-04-25T12:07:00.000-07:00

Step 5

Most businesses require licenses or permits in order to operate. Please click on each of the resources below to determine if your business requires any licenses or permits.

http://www.calgold.ca.gov/

To assist you in finding the appropriate permitting information for your business, the CalGOLD database provides links and contact information that direct you to agencies that administer and issue business permits, licenses and registration requirements from all levels of government.

The CalGold listings include descriptions of the requirements, the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of the agencies that administer those requirements and issue the permits and licenses, and in most cases a direct link to the agencies' Internet web pages

http://www.dca.ca.gov/

Laptop crop AT ADOBE headquarters in July 26, 2008

2008-03-05T14:11:00.000-08:00

LAPTOP CROP AT ADOBE CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS
Saturday July 26, 2008
All day laptop crop.
Prizes from Adobe, DSP, and other great companies.
Mini-classes and demonstrations.
Focus groups (tell Adobe what you love, give suggestions for future features, etc).
Special guest appearances.
You don't have to use an Adobe software program to come!
You might win one if you do come!

More details will be posted soon, but mark your calendars for July 26!!!!!!!!

Corporate Headquarters
Adobe Systems Incorporated
345 Park Avenue
San Jose, CA 95110-2704

Gotta GO NOW! StichCraft in Peteluma, Ca

2008-02-27T23:53:00.000-08:00

Adorn contributor and purse-maker extraordinaire had just opened up her very own sewing and crafting studio, StitchCraft in Petaluma, CA
See the class description list at www.stitchcraftonline.com/class_descriptions.htm

StitchCraft is designed to be a fun and inspirational place to come learn to sew and craft. They have a fully stocked sewing studio with a variety of Janome, New Home and White sewing machines and sergers. They also have large cutting and worktables, a professional dress form, irons and ironing boards.

But wait they have a supply of hip fabrics, patterns, notions and craft supplies.

They also provide studio rental at $10 per hour.

StitchCraft is owned and operated by Nicole Vasbinder who is one of the founding teachers at Stitch Lounge in San Francisco and continues to teach at Stonemountain and Daughter Fabrics in Berkeley. Some of the topshelf places to learn sewing in the Bay Area.

Looking forward to signing up for Next Thursday's A-Line Skirt Class...I am excited just thinking about it...Great new business venture in the Bay Area and needed. I live in Vallejo so having something in my "backyard" is a HUGH win! We need more business that help and teach our local crafters, DIY, or people who just want to learn a new skill or have fun!

Using Blogs And Social Networking To Market Your Small Business

2008-02-27T15:40:00.000-08:00

The Northern California SBDC Technology Advisory Program is offering Using Blogs And Social Networking To Market Your Small Business

DATE: Tuesday, March 4th, 2008
TIME: 6:00PM - 9:00PM
LOCATION: Entrepreneur Center, 84 W. Santa Clara Street, Suite 100, San Jose, CA 95113
COST: $35 if booked online, $40 at the door (cash and checks only at the door please)

Class Description:
In this class you will learn the importance of social networking as an integrated marketing tool for your business. Find out how to market using social networking tools, and how to establish a true dialogue with your customer base. Find out the best tools to use to create a blog and/or online community, and learn how to market these online properties effectively for your business. Also covered: Blog Do's and Don'ts; viral marketing techniques; leveraging existing social networks to market your business.

Spring Bead and Craft Shows in the West

2008-02-21T10:55:00.000-08:00

Below is a list of the main Bead shows for 2008 in the West.
So save the dates and book your flights today.
Every year we say we are going to go!!! But this year why not plan your next "buying and educational" investments.

Bead Expo - Portland, OR: March 27-30, 2008

International Gem & Jewelry Show - San Mateo, CA: March 28-30, 2008

Glass Craft & Bead Expo - Las Vegas, NV: April 4-6, 2008

International Gem & Jewelry Show - Santa Monica, CA: April 11-13, 2008

Bead Expo - Phoenix, AZ: May 2-4, 2008

Bead Society of Northern California - Oakland, CA: May 3, 2008

Who Said So by Michael E. Parker

2008-02-05T11:59:00.001-08:00

There are key individuals you meet in life who have the ability to change the way you process thoughts for the positive or negative. Who move you forward or backward. Mr. Parker is an individual that has the ability to help you “change for the better".

Many times my students and peers ask how do you do it all? The answer is complex and simple at the same time... How so do you ask? Having has the privilege to work for/with Mr. Parker, seeing him in action and his ability to train "team members" to think differently about business and company culture... This is how I am able to do "more with less" and challenge myself to do more as I think about his personal example. He is simply the best executive, professional, entrepreneur and friend...

His book will challenge you, however, if your like me something will "click" as you begin to challenge traditional approaches to business that haven's work for you, by asking one simple questions...Who Said So!

So I ask again...what would you do if you could not fail>>>>

For more information please visit the interactive web site www.whosaidsobook.com

Maximize Your Web Site Traffic And Sales

2008-02-05T11:53:00.000-08:00

Search Engine Optimization And Web Analytics
This Thursday, February 7th, 2008
From 6:00PM - 8:30PM
at Entrepreneur Center, 84 W. Santa Clara Street, Suite 100, San Jose, CA 95113
The cost is $35 if booked online, $40 at the door (cash and checks only at the door please)
To book go to...http://www.acteva.com/booking.cfm?bevaID=149009

This class you will learn how to optimize your Web site to ensure the highest possible placing on the key search engines, and thus ensure more traffic. By learning how to use Web analytics you will also learn how to keep your customers on your site once they are there, and how to ensure the maximum conversion rates for site visitors into paying customers.

Get out there and make it happen....

Save the DATE - March 8th...How to Turn a Fun Hobby into a Financially Stable Business at Chabot

2008-02-04T08:52:00.000-08:00

Do you want to make money from a lifelong hobby or interest but are not sure where to begin? Take this class from an experienced entrepreneur and learn the fundamentals needed to establish a clear direction and vision for your business. Topics will include: the “simple” business plan; business structure in California; break-even analysis and pricing; your market and customers; pricing, marketing and your image; the wholesale vs. retail decision…and much more
When: Saturday, March 8, 2008 (1 Session)
Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Cost $59
Instructor: Tonya Jenkins
Location: Chabot College, Hayward - Room 315
To register got to http://chabot.augusoft.net/index.cfm?fuseaction=1013&courseid=799&categoryid=2&subcategoryid=9&catalogid=

Chabot Class on Feb 23rd - Create Unique Wire Earrings

2008-02-04T08:48:00.000-08:00

Do you love wearing earrings? Then come and learn how to create simple wraps, loops, dangles, and more. Take the first step into wire working with earrings. This is an easy and a creative introductory class for beginners. You will choose the materials in class.
1 session on February 23, 2008
at Chabot College, Hayward - Room 315
on Saturday, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM;
Cost $49
Instructor (me!): Tonya Jenkins
Important: Materials fee: $10 and up, depending on the ...More

Simple Blue

2008-02-03T22:30:00.000-08:00

Here is a simple way you can mix beads with chain. Still string the beads, however, crimp the ends onto the chain...no wire work required just string, crimp, attach your clasp and your ready to go.

Helps you save beads, use beads, or save time!

Question?

Craft Inc.

2008-01-26T17:51:00.000-08:00

Recommeded book for anyone interested in how you can move from Hobby/Dream to Business Reality. See how other great crafters did it so you can join the movement!

Creative Brain vs. The "Business" Brain

2008-01-25T16:01:00.000-08:00

Most experts say we operate in two hemispheres, the left brain or right brain. The left specializes in academic - language and mathematical process, logical thoughts and analysis...
The right is concerned with "creative" activities:rhythm, music, color, ...crafts!

The weaker side is suppose to stimulate and encourage cooperation with the stronger side...balance, right!

Right now with all the rain, politics, mortgage melt down, possible recession etc, etc... plus having to manage/grow/start a business are my fellow crafting Diva's on creative overload?

Maybe it's just the rain

Resource List

2008-01-07T17:39:00.000-08:00

The Bay Area has several organizations that can help make 2008 the year your Business Starts, Expands or Demands what it or you need. The following list several key resource within the Bay Area that are here to help you look back on 2008 with no regrets...only accomplishments

AnewAmerica Community Corporation offers a three-year training program for immigrant entrepreneurs. Their services include a matching savings incentive under the IDA program Loan Program Located at 1918 University Ave., Suite 3ABerkeley, CA 94704 Telephone: (510) 540-7785Toll Free: (510) 540-7785Website: http://www.anewamerica.org/

Bay Area World Trade Center strengthens the process of global commerce for local companies by tapping into a network of business, economic, and political resources both locally and internationally in more than 100 countries. The BAWTC provides professional services and expertise to small and medium-sized businesses with their import and export needs. 544 Water StreetOakland, CA 94607 Telephone: (510) 251-5900Website: http://www.bawtc.com/education.asp?PartnerID=

Businesses for Sale site provides a variety of businesses for sale throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. Search by county, type, and size of business. Over 30 new businesses for sale are added daily. This site lists businesses for sale by owner, business brokers and agents. Articles, resources, and workshops are included on this site. Website: http://www.bizben.com/

Buying & Selling A Business Information - Blog is a syndicated small business blog provides the latest tips, updates, and events pertaining to selling & buying a small to mid-sized businesses for sale. Website: http://www.usabizmart.com/blog

Are you interested in starting a small business in the East Bay? This site is dedicated to providing information about, and links to, helpful services and local agencies located in much of the East Bay. Website: http://www.eastbayliving.org/

Entrepreneur Center - East Bay The East Bay Entrepreneur Center is a multimedia library with free computers and books to help people write business plans, conduct research on business ideas, and connect with business counselors. 519 17th Street, 2nd FloorOakland, CA 94612 Telephone: (510) 273-6010

Other locations include: Entrepreneur Center - San Francisco
The SBA Entrepreneur Center provides assistance with business research and planning and provides more than 2,000 small business planning tools combined with free counseling and business seminars at no or nominal cost. The Center offers a variety of programs and seminars introducing small business clients to the latest in computer technology, management concepts, financial planning and related topics. Other resources include computers, software applications and a comprehensive business reference library to assist in the preparation of a workable business plan. 455 Market St., Suite 600San Francisco, CA 94105 Telephone: (415) 744-4242 Website: http://app1.sba.gov/calendar/states/calendar.cfm?op=group&grp=13

Entrepreneur Center - San Jose
The SBA • Cisco Systems • San Jose Entrepreneur Center is a collaborative effort between the public sector, private industry and non-profit organizations to provide small business owners with the resources information and tools they need to be successful. Together, the sponsors and contributors have developed a one-stop location where start-up and existing businesses can come to fulfill all their needs-from financing to training to expert consulting to technology information and tools to the latest resources available on the market. 84 W. Santa Clara St.San Jose, CA 95113 Telephone: (408) 494-0210 Website: http://www.ecenteronline.org/

The Federal Technology Center (The FTC) is a not-for-profit public benefit corporation that promotes economic development in California by teaching small businesses how to successfully compete for government contracts. Since the Federal government spends more than $500 billion on goods and services every year, The FTC increases the potential of these dollars being brought to California. 4700 Roseville Road, Suite 105North Highlands, CA 95660 Telephone: (916) 334-9388Website: http://www.theftc.org/

Inner City Advisors
Inner City Advisors (formerly Oakland Advisors) works with selected inner city businesses that require direct networking connections, specific technical advice, infrastructure guidance, and other board-level access and support. The organization utilizes a pool of over 30 volunteer professionals who provide pro bono consulting, business advice, referrals, technical assistance and mentoring to client companies who face the challenges of strategic planning, product distribution, marketing, communications, management information systems, customer identification, financial analysis, legal matters, human resources and other business areas.300 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, Suite 260Oakland, CA 94612 Contact: Jose CoronaTelephone: (510) 271-0142Fax: (510) 271-0168 Website: http://www.innercityadvisors.org/

Internet Business Advice Sites
Website: http://www.bizben.com/listings/san-francisco-bay-area.php

Micromentor
Micromentor helps entrepreneurs grow their businesses through mentoring relationships with experienced business professionals. The Micromentor volunteers their time to meaningfully impact the lives of those new to the world of small business.275 Fifth StreetSan Francisco , CA 94103 Contact Information:Website: www.MicroMentor.orgEmail: info@micromentor.orgPhone: 415-692-4840

Mission Economic Development Association (MEDA)
The Mission Economic Development Association (MEDA) is a community-based, local economic development corporation located in the Mission District of San Francisco. MEDA provides small business technical assistance, loan packaging and advocacy targeted at minority and women-owned businesses in San Francisco. 3505 20th StreetSan Francisco, CA 94110 Telephone: (415) 282-3334Website: http://www.medasf.org/

My Own Business
My Own Business, Inc. (MOBI) is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to providing free training and resources to aspiring entrepreneurs. If you take a moment to look at their website, you will see that we offer a great deal of valuable content. The cornerstone of MOBI is a FREE 12-Session online business course that teaches everything from "Deciding on a Business" to "Business Planning" to "e-Commerce. 13181 Crossroads Parkway NorthSuite 190City of Industry, CA 91746 Telephone: (562)463-1800Fax: (562)463-1802Website: http://www.myownbusiness.org/

Oakland Public Library: Science/Business Unit
The Oakland Public Library has resources for startup and existing businesses in Oakland. The library also has lists of businesses that salespeople can download for prospective customers.125 14th Street, 2nd FloorOakland, CA 94612 Telephone: (510) 238-3177 Website: http:///www.oaklandlibrary.org/Seasonal/Sections/sbss.html

Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center
Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center's ever-expanding offerings are tailored to the small business owner and include classroom training, business incubation, financing assistance and computer training.275 5th StreetSan Francisco, CA 94103 Telephone: (415) 541-8580Website: http://www.rencenter.org/home.htm

SCORE - East Bay SCORE (Senior Corps of Retired Executives) provides free one-on-one counseling to start-up and established business owners. SCORE's experienced business experts provide general business advice on every aspect of business including: how to write a business plan, cash flow management, etc. Clients are matched with counselors with specific applicable experience whenever possible. SCORE also provides workshops on starting and managing a small business. Call to schedule an appointment. 519 17th Street, Oakland, CA 94612 Telephone: (510) 273-6611

SCORE - San Francisco
455 Market Street, Suite 600San Francisco, CA 94105 Telephone: (415) 744-6827Website: http://www.sfscore.com/

Small Business Development Center (SBDC) - Contra Costa County
The Contra Costa SBDC offers classes, free consulting services and business planning resources for small businesses throughout Contra Costa County. Telephone: (925) 646-5377Fax: (925) 646-5299Website: http://www.contracostasbdc.com/

Small Business Development Center (SBDC) - Cal State East Bay
The Cal State East Bay SBDC offers classes, free consulting services and business planning resources for small businesses throughout Alameda County. Taught by experienced faculty, including Cal State East Bay professors and industry experts, SBDC classes are tailored to fit entrepreneurs in any stage of the business development process. East Bay SBDC consultants specialize in reviewing business plans, financial projections, market research, marketing plans and business strategy. Their consulting services are offered free of charge to small businesses throughout Alameda County. 475 14th St., # 150Oakland, CA 94612 Telephone: (510) 208-0410Website: http://www.eastbaysbdc.org/

Small Business Development Center (SBDC) - San Francisco Workshops and Seminars include: • How To Start and Manage a Small Business • Writing Effective Business Plans • Export/Import • E-Commerce 455 Market Street, 6th FloorSan Francisco, CA 94105 Telephone: (415) 744-8427

Small Business Development Center (SBDC) - Solano County
Offers training and counseling in the areas of researching, analyzing, planning, starting, operating or buying an existing small business. In addition, we provide help in the areas of marketing, basic bookkeeping, financing, hiring employees, government procurement and many other topics.424-C Executive Court NorthFairfield, CA 94534 Telephone: (707) 864-3382Website: http://www.solanosbdc.org/

Start Up East Palo Alto
Start Up is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote economic development in and around East Palo Alto, California by providing training, capital, and other assistance to help establish and support locally-owned and operated small businesses. 2111 University Avenue, Suite AEast Palo Alto,, CA 94303 Telephone: (650) 321-2193 Website: http://www.startupepa.org/

Technology Advisory Program (TAP)
TAP provides FREE technology consulting services to small businesses across the San Francisco Bay Area. With offices in San Francisco, San Jose and Oakland, TAP is a government-funded, unbiased management consulting practice specializing in improving business operations84 W. Santa Clara St., Suite 100San Jose, CA 95113 Contact: Andrea Peiro, Director Telephone: (408) 494-0212 Website: http://www.sbdctap.com/

USABizMart
This website lists businesses for sale throughout California and the Nation.Website: http://www.usabizmart.com/

West Company
West Company is a nonprofit economic development organization serving microenterprise owners in Northern California's Mendocino County. Through the business training and consulting program, West Company assists clients in the development of a business plan for both start-up and expansion purposes. West makes individual microloans to business owners that have gone through their training program and assists with the formation of flexible business networks. There is also an office on the Coast: 306 E. Redwood Ave., Suite 2 Fort Bragg, CA 95437 Phone: 707-964-7571367 N. State Street, Suite 201Ukiah, CA 94102 Contact: Ukiah OfficeTelephone: 707-468-3553Website: http://www.westcompany.org/

Women's Initiative for Self-Employment (WISE)
Women's Initiative for Self Employment is a private, non-profit agency providing comprehensive business training in English and Spanish, on-going technical assistance and financing to San Francisco Bay Area low-income women.519 17th St, Suite 110Oakland, CA 94612 Telephone: (415) 641-3460Website: http://www.womensinitiative.org/

Oakland Resources

2008-01-07T17:33:00.000-08:00

Doing Business in Oakland

http://www.business2oakland.com/main/businessassistance.htm

http://www.oakland1stop.org/

Oakland Business Development CorporationThe Oakland Business Development Corporation (OBDC) manages all business loans under $249,500 for the City of Oakland. OBDC provides business assistance to entrepreneurs who may not qualify for traditional bank financing. To learn more about their loan products, business assistance services, and business resources, visit www.obdc.com or call 510.763.4297.

Planning for 2008

2007-12-21T14:46:00.000-08:00

We have 10 days left in 2007 then 2008 will be here.
10 days until a new year...then we all will have 365 days to make 2008 a success.
Time is the great equality of life...we all get 24 hour a day and 365 day a year. And we can only look forward to what we can do, not what we wished we had done. Wouldn't that just be wasting time?

Now while I have some great accomplishments in 2007 it wasn't the best year for my business.
Therefore, I would like to make 2008 the year I take my business from good to Great!
Time to dust off the business plan and revise it based upon my Goals for 2008.

But wait what are my goals for 2008????????

10 days to figure it out...what about you?

Plan for 2008 and attend the 1st Annual Franchise Expo

2007-12-07T14:19:00.000-08:00

Date: January 18, 2008
Location: Oakland Marriott Hotel
Time: 8:00 am until 6:00 pm

The City of Oakland in association with the Entrepreneur's Source is sponsoring the 1st Annual Oakland Retail Development Opportunity and Franchise Showcase.

This Oakland Retail Development Opportunity and Franchise Showcase is designed to promote small retail businesses and franchise development opportunities in the City of Oakland, by providing the demographic information needed to support the establishment of businesses and facilitating one-on-one sessions for individuals interested in pursuing franchising opportunities.

Registration is free.
If you need additional information please contact Angelica Hollins at 510-395-0270 or Eddie Dillard at 510-706-9005.

December 12th---Workshop on Quick and Easy Small Biz Loans

2007-12-07T14:15:00.000-08:00

URBAN SOLUTIONS AND LEANDERS FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PRESENT WORKSHOP ON QUICK & EASY SMALL BUSINESS LOANS.

Two Bay Area non-profits offer free-of-charge seminar on how to access financing for small businesses
Date: Wed. December 12th
Time: 5:30-7:30 pm.
Location : At Etiquette Lounge, 1108 Market Street in San Francisco.

Refreshments will be served and there will be a door prize of a $100 Gift Card to Best Buy.

For more information, wisit http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=vnruihcab.0.wmlzihcab.cgp87ybab.132&ts=S0305&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.urbansolutionssf.org%2F and to register, please call 415-553-4433 x 101.

December 6th in SFO - ReadyMade's Winter Ball and Indie Gift Fair

2007-11-21T13:47:00.000-08:00

Wonderful magazine! Until I found this I didn't realize they were Based in the Bay Area....now I may have to buy it...another expense to add to the budget

O Come AllYe Crafty!
The long wait is over—ReadyMade’s Winter Ball and Indie Gift Fair is upon us!
For those of you who weren’t there last year,
ReadyMade’s annual holiday fete is a do-not-miss event.
Jam-packed with stylish shoppers, your pockets will be evergreen!
When: Thursday, December 6th
Event: 6:30-11:00
Where: The Verdi Club, 2424 Mariposa Street, San Francisco
Who: The ReadyMade Family and 500+ merry makers

They are accepting Vendor Application until Monday, November 26th!

Join Me!!!!!!

2007-11-20T09:53:00.000-08:00

Site For Online Advertising

2007-11-19T15:18:00.000-08:00

Craftster
Craglist
SFGirlbytheBay blog
Indie Craft Shows
SFist.com
Readymade calender (online)
96 hours (SF Chronicle)
East Bay Express events calender
upcoming.yahoo.com
Yelp.com under events
Craftgossip

2007-11-14T23:28:00.002-08:00

Hello Fellow Small Business Do’ers and Dreamers...

Have you heard about some cool things Intuit (QuickBooks) has going on and here is the 411.

They’re on a mission to ignite a nationwide entrepreneurial revolution in honor of their new FREE product – QuickBooks Simple Start. Until most recently, this small business software retailed for close to $100.

To download your FREE copy, all you have to do is visit IWillJustStart.com

Day 1

2007-11-14T23:28:00.000-08:00

Today I Started

2007-11-14T16:15:00.000-08:00

Last night I attended an event where one of the authors of " This is Not the Life I Ordered" ask the audience an important question..." What would you do if you could not fail?"
But, that was not all after hearing their amazing stories of courage and I mean true courage! I begin to realize that there was nothing I couldn't do, if I didn't let the my fears stop me.

The fear of failure
The fear of success
The fear of what other think

Just to name a few.

So I woke up and Started!

A blog devoted to what I love to do:

Help Small Biz Owners - (Ladies First...)
Help and Motivate Crafters - My DIY'ERs, Designer and Artist
Supply Information and Support to Local Artist in The Bay Area within Vallejo, Ca (we don't have much, so sad)
Help and Support My Students and Clients
Grow and Develop My Own Skills
Have Fun, but Get the Work Done

So I close my 1st post by asking " What would you do if You could not fail?