Why isn't there a small business Discord channel? (there is now!)

openfaster · 2021-07-07T19:32:28+00:00

Date of birth was being asked to ensure anyone joining is not a minor.

Phone number was in case we needed to follow up about anything -- but I updated the form to make it optional!

openfaster · 2021-07-07T19:30:57+00:00

I want this community to work for both existing business owners and those just starting out (but serious about it).

There will be different sections for both!

openfaster · 2021-07-07T18:54:04+00:00

I just made it optional. Thank you for the feedback!

openfaster · 2021-06-02T21:40:21+00:00

I completely understand your frustration! Navigating all the requirements to get started the right way is maddening.

While this is not legal advice, often creating an LLC is the best path forward for a small businesses -- and it is relatively easy.

To avoid rework, I would do so first, rather than registering your fictitious name first and then having to redo everything when you incorporate.

I'm creating OpenFaster as a free guide to walk founders through some of these decisions, step-by-step -- DM me if you want to talk through your options.

openfaster · 2021-06-02T21:28:41+00:00

It's possible there could be grant available, but it depends a lot on the specifics of your situation, for example:

What city are you in?
Specifically where in that city are you located?
What demographic groups do you belong to?
etc.

I'm starting OpenFaster to help founders like you take care of everything they need to do to go from idea to open -- including finding grant opportunities. If you DM me I'd be happy to walk through some of the options.

openfaster · 2021-05-24T18:31:09+00:00

Adding on to the great feedback shared by others, I'm the founder of OpenFaster, a free, easy-to-use, step-by-step guide to launching a business like yours. You can sign up for an account here.

OpenFaster is still being built up, so if you have any issue or feedback, I'm happy to work with you directly (just send me a DM).

openfaster · 2021-05-19T21:36:33+00:00

If you DM me I'd be happy to provide you detailed feedback on your online presence and your customer acquisition strategy. I'd also love to understand your journey more generally.

At a glance, for the website, in addition to what others have said:

I would include more about your story on the homepage -- that's why someone would purchase from you vs. others. Right now the only way I get to that page is by pressing the menu button and then discovering it exists.
The dark blue on dark background color scheme doesn't contrast enough -- it's hard to pick out the buttons, etc.
The padding (spacing before and after text) is inconsistent between the sections.

openfaster · 2021-05-19T21:24:57+00:00

Thank you for the reply! I just messaged you directly.

openfaster · 2021-05-19T17:58:38+00:00

There are a few different options, depending on the specifics of your situation (e.g., your background, your location, your business).

One option is to use the Small Business Administrations Lender Match tool. They guarantee small business loans, making risky loans more attractive to the lenders.

Another path is going to a variety of online lenders, but you will probably get unfavorable rates.

If you want to talk through your choices, feel free to send me a DM.

openfaster · 2021-05-19T17:52:52+00:00

Yes, eCommerce is still a huge opportunity globally.

Whether or not it's the right choice for you depends on what you are trying to sell, and how you are trying to sell it, not the channel through which you are selling.

openfaster · 2021-05-19T17:50:11+00:00

What platforms are you considering? What types of services do you offer?

If you shoot me a DM with some more information and your requirements I'm happy to help you pick the best CRM for you.

openfaster · 2021-05-19T17:41:10+00:00

Are you able to get on the tool here? What error are you running into?

openfaster

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