• More SBA Money
  The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recently announced that it’s making $1.4 billion more available for small-business lending.

• Rating The Rates
  Shop for a cellular calling plan and you’ll soon be overwhelmed with choices.

GET CONNECTED TIPS
Nifty ideas you can use to build a better business

• Packaged Vacations
  Small-business owners often find it difficult to take a short vacation, let alone take the time to plan a fabulous getaway. So here’s an idea to help you make the break

• Trading Spaces
  When you’re in the hunt for new business space, look beyond the location and square footage.

GET CONNECTED TAXES
Savvy strategies to help reduce your taxes

• Instant Identification Numbers
  The Internal Revenue Service now lets business owners obtain employer identification numbers directly from its Web site.

• The Disappearing Refund
  Wondering if you’ll ever receive that IRS tax refund? Now you can check the status of your tax money online.

GET CONNECTED TO-DO
Trade shows, conferences, seminars and workshops to boost your business

• National Entrepreneurial Conference and Expo
  September 17-19, 2003
  Washington, D.C.
  
  The U.S. Small Business Administration turns 50 this year, and in dozens of cities across the country, the SBA will spotlight the entrepreneurial heroes who have started and grown small businesses.
   

• Successful Sales Skills
  October 15, 2003
  Waukesha, Wisc.
  
  Learn how to handle buying objections, refine your closing skills and negotiate win-win agreements in this one-day seminar presented by MRA-The Management Association Inc.
   

GET CONNECTED TRAINING
Know-how you need to succeed

• Trade Show Tactic
  Before you decide to exhibit your business at a trade show, make sure the show organizer can give you some bang for your marketing buck.

• Franchise Buying Help
  If you’re in the market to buy a franchise, check out the American Franchisee Association (AFA) Web site.