I agree with the post on a few issues but there are some misses based on ambiguity. A few million dollars being a necessity is a stretch unless you plan on flipping the company for a high multiple of that amount. If you are going to start on a shoestring, you better have first mover's advantage and a realistic expectation (in dollar amounts) for your exit strategy. A shoestring start-up is still a real possibility as long as the execution is solid and the return is to scale.

One of the most difficult things about being a small business owner is finding ways to generate marketing or advertising for your small business. I have found a company that really helps with promoting your business, there are just some many ideas that you can promote your business with.

Look at http://www.theexecutiveadvertising.com for Promotional Products that you can put your company logo on, they literally have thousands of products and ideas. This type of advertising really keeps your company name and logo in front of your customers, something as simple as a refrigerator magnet; this really helps with local marketing. Also, look at http://www.theexecutivemarketing.com they actually offer a telephone marketing campaign that will call a list of consumers that are not on the “Do No Call” list. Depending on your industry this service can offer immediate customers using direct telephone marketing.

Hope this helps,

Stewart Switzer
http://www.firstnational-usa.com
Mortgage Loan Specialist

One thing that is also VERY important (4 the 'cheaper' Web 2.0 type startups) is GOOD advice.
AS initial investment is now cheaper it DOESN'T MEAN u can get away with less guidance/mentoring

My 2c

Lal

One thing that is also VERY important (4 the 'cheaper' Web 2.0 type startups) is GOOD advice.
AS initial investment is now cheaper it DOESN'T MEAN u can get away with less guidance/mentoring

My 2c

Lal