For 21st-century entrepreneurs, this book provides the practical guidance they need to overcome the often intimidating challenges of starting, organizing, and running a new business effectively and efficiently. The economic downturn has many individuals considering going into business for themselves, rather than relying on an employer for their income. Unfortunately, according to data from the Small Business Administration, the odds of long-term success are against them: 69 percent of businesses do not last past seven years and 56 percent fail in less than four. This book provides entrepreneurs with a comprehensive guide to the resources they need or will likely want to consult when starting a small business—and in order to stay profitable over the long run. The Entrepreneur's Information Sourcebook: Charting the Path to Small Business Success, Second Edition provides the expert guidance and up-to-date print and web resources an entrepreneur may need to make his business thrive and grow, from inception and information gathering, to raising capital, to marketing methods and human resource concerns. Nearly half of the resources in this newly updated book are new, and the essays have also been updated to reflect current business practices. This book is an essential tool that provides quick and easy access to the information every small business owner needs.

Environmental Auditing : Sources of Information and Training

A guide to the information services and sources provided to 100 types of small business by associations, consultants, educational programs, franchisers, government agencies, reference works, statisticians, suppliers, trade shows, and venture capital firms.

Environmental auditing directly affects a wide range of companies, involved in property transactions or acquisition, as part of the due diligence process - vital in the disposal or divestment of companies. Understanding the auditing process is essential if professional standards are to be maintained, strict legal requirements met and best results achieved. This book is designed to assist both auditors and managers meet their objectives, in gathering and assessing relevant information, utilising internal company resources and meeting legal and professional obligations, in the most efficient and cost effective manner. It explains the process and techniques of auditing, in relation to manufacturing and industrial processes, with particular regard to the legislative controls and regulations governing: contaminated land, pollution control, waste management, hazardous and toxic substances. Company managers, specialist organisations, central and local government bodies, professional advisers - each has an interest in ensuring environmental standards are met and compliance fully observed.