helping you move
your business
forward
Guide is an organization made of individual entities dedicated to helping entrepreneurs in the Auburn and Opelika areas navigate the decisions of starting and growing a small business. We have a network of experts that can help you based on the stage of business you are in. Utilize our database below to find an expert to guide you.
​
what stage are you?
We have experts to help you at each stage.
01
Idea
Stage
Do you have an idea for a business but you have not started the business or sold to customers?
02
Early
Stage
Do you have services defined or a working prototype?
03
Startup
Stage
Is the business legally formed and generates revenue?
04
Established
Stage
Has the business been operational for more than one year with consistent revenue?
05
Growth
Stage
Is the business foundation strong and now you are seeking to grow with new revenue lines or locations?
No matter which stage of business you are in, we have a database of experts who can help you based on your stage.
When looking at the resource list, experts are categorized by the stages they assist with.
good to know
for business
Learn from our expert partners on
topics that affect small businesses.
Enjoyed the video and want more? Sign up for our email newsletter to receive education like this.
breaking down the terms
Legal Structure
an organizational framework for how a business entity operates
Venture Capital
a type of financing that investors provide to startup companies in exchange for an ownership share.
Profit Share
Profit sharing is various incentive plans introduced by businesses that provide direct or indirect payments to employees.
Funding
Small businesses can received funding through grants, SBA loans, venture capital, personal loans, lines of credit, credit cards, banks.
Debt
Debt is a necessary part of most business journeys. Businesses use debt to improve cash flow, pay suppliers, run payroll and more. Taking loans or seeking financing can be part of a business growth mindset.
Net profit reflects the amount of money you are left with after having paid all your allowable business expenses, while gross profit is the amount of money you are left with after deducting the cost of goods sold from revenue.
Profit
Line of Credit
a flexible loan from a financial institution like a bank that consists of a defined amount of money as needed and repay immediately or over time.
ROI
ROI stands for Return on Investment. Return on investment or return on costs is a ratio between net income and investment. A high ROI means the investment's gains compare favorably to its cost.
Partnerships are the simplest structure for two or more people to own a business together. There are two common kinds of partnerships: limited partnerships (LP) and limited liability partnerships (LLP).
Partnership
are you a small business with a question?
Fill out the form and we will respond via email.
looking for the following?
Licenses
and Taxes
Auburn
Opelika
Funding
Resources
