Big Food Franchises Get Bigger

Want to buy a restaurant franchise? It helps to own a bunch of them already. Many chains are awarding more outlets to big players who already hold multiple units.

Doing Equity Crowd Funding Right

Under the JOBS Act, small firms will be allowed to sell equity stakes online to large numbers of investors. We asked experts for their best advice on using this powerful new tool—and the biggest caveats to watch for.

LLCs Are an Inspired Financing Choice for Artists

Back in 2006, sculptor Roy Tamboli was facing a problem any entrepreneur can relate to: He had a great idea, but didn't have the money to launch it. So he made a creative deal with his patrons.

Recommended Reading for Young Entrepreneurs

There are tons of books that promise to help people become entrepreneurs—but most of them are targeted at adults. We asked experts on kids and business for their top picks to get youngsters started.

The Backers Who Made It Big

When friends and family lend money to an entrepreneur, they can not only lose their cash but also the relationship. Here's a look at three of the rare cases that paid off spectacularly for the backers—Starbucks, Guitar Hero and Daily Candy.

• Do's and Don'ts of Asking Friends for Money
• Read the complete report.

Powerful Law Loses Its Punch

The Robinson-Patman Act is intended to keep a level playing field between big firms and small ones. But a couple of landmark decisions have raised the burden of proof for companies that bring suits under the act, a study shows.

Small Talk

Emily Glazer answers questions about business incubators and testing out apps.

Web Watch

A survey of useful small-business sites that let you set up your own sites, streamline common jobs and more.

Sleep Is Better Than Sex

Where did Danny Rinaldi get the idea for an herbal supplement that helps you sleep? He made a startling discovery while trying to invent a product that enhanced libido.

The Fish That Didn't Get Away

How did Dan Zawacki come up with the idea for a lobster-delivery business? He got tired of thanking his sales clients in person around the holidays.

Do What You Love? Maybe Not.

Would-be entrepreneurs are often told to follow their passion. That may be a good way to kill your passion.

Point. Set. Match. I Lose.

Teaching tennis seemed like a dream job. But it turned out to be a slog that forced this writer to confront some hard truths.

Google Tweaks Search, Hurting Firms

Google changed its search algorithm last month, seeking to downplay sites it suspects of artificially boosting their rankings. Now some small businesses say they are scrambling to avoid being relegated to the Internet's junk bin.

• Google to Roll Out Smarter Search