IASourceLink Blog

The Greater Des Moines Partnership and Clay & Milk are partnering to develop the Iowa Innovation Dashboard, a comprehensive indicator of entrepreneurial activity in the state of Iowa.

Part four of our Business Structure Blog Series is HERE! Click to learn about all things C corporation.

Part 3 of our Business Structure Blog Series is HERE! Read our newest blog to learn whether an S Corporation is right for your business. An S Corporation, or S Subchapter, is another type of legal business entity. What makes an S Corporation stand out from the others? The main difference is that the business elects to pass income, losses, deductions, and credits to their shareholders. This is a major tax advantage as shareholders report these incomes and losses on their personal tax return — allowing the business to avoid double taxation.

We all know that 2020 was a challenge, to say the least. Trying to keep a business afloat can be hard enough during good times let alone during a pandemic and it can be easy to lose motivation when you can’t see the win at the end of your day. So, when you find yourself in a slump how can you recharge your battery and set your sights on change? It might not be simple – life is always so much easier when we are drifting towards complacency – but here’s a few tips to get started on growing new habits and gaining inspiration!

Ever so often, we come across a story that reminds us of why we continue to serve Iowa entrepreneurs - especially in turbulent times. This month, our Resource Partners, the Small Business Authority (SBA) and the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) shared a small business success story that speaks volumes to many in restaurant ownership.

Starting and running your own business requires you to take a good deal of risks and from time to time a leap of faith. Entrepreneurs and business owners have to make quick decisions on what opportunities to chase after and which one’s they let pass on by. When we swing and miss (or don’t swing at all) it can be difficult to shake that feeling of regret and how to deal with those feelings and keep moving forward. Dwelling and obsessing on those misses is counterproductive and affect your ability to make decisions.

Good news for many small business owners: The Small Business Administration (SBA) recently announced the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF), granting emergency assistance for eligible restaurants, bars, and other qualifying businesses impacted by COVID-19. Despite its name, eligibility encompasses more than your typical dinner joint. For eligibility and application information, read this weeks blog.

Today were talking health care. Have you had a chance to look into affordable health insurance options for your family? If you are looking to start a small business, don't let the cost of health insurance be a deterrent. Take a moment to read our blog and you may be pleasantly surprised with the affordable options accessible to you.

Ascent was created as a resource for women entrepreneurs to expand their knowledge through an online learning platform. Start your journey today! Visit, https://ascent.sba.gov/ to get started.

As we springboard into 2021 and you consider starting a new business with the new year, you may find yourself developing a pitch deck. Do not fear! You are the expert of your idea. And don’t forget that! It is important that your pitch reflects who you are and what you want people to think of your company.