The ultralight start-up: how to launch a business without clout or capital

David Wilson Launching a start-up is easier than ever. But, because entry barriers verge on non-existent and everyone wants to be the next Facebook, Twitter or Dropbox, competition is fierce.

Zumba isn't just exercise, it's big business

Alberto Perez started out as a street performer, today he stands at the centre of the Zumba exercise craze, having helped transform Zumba Fitness into a rapidly growing fitness empire.

Techie helps filmmakers get with the program

Christopher Niesche When Melbourne computer programmer Chris Rickard heard how films were planned and scheduled, he thought there had to be a better way.

Planning

How to write an effective business plan

Christopher Niesche The research and analysis involved in writing a business plan can be more important than the document itself.

START-UP

Online selling with a social mission

Alexandra Cain The inspiration for Rupal Ismin's new website came from her Indian grandfather, who despite being so poor he couldn't afford shoes, donated 10 per cent of everything he earned to charity.

ONLINE SELLING

A rookie's guide to online selling

Antonia Magee It may seem like an easy ticket to online riches, but the reality of setting up your own internet store is vastly different to what many expect.

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TECH

Website or app: what should start-ups build first?

Alexandra Cain Apps are becoming so popular that some start-ups are bypassing a website in favour of developing their own smartphone tool.

From fart to fab: start-up app development secrets

David Wilson The apps market can be hugely lucrative. Consider the happy fate of the New York-based social game developer OMGPOP, maker of the smart phone art game Draw Something.

The net still has its share of catches

A purely online business is a great way to enter the commercial world but it's not without challenges and expense, writes Keeli Cambourne.

A smart idea to drive profits

Companies that don't have an online presence are almost certainly missing out on opportunities and business, writes Keeli Cambourne.

Growth

How to grow an idea

David Wilson There is no formula for hot ideas. You have to learn to recognise them - and learn how to act on them, says start-up guru, John English.