A bulletproof, step-by-step plan for turning your business brainstorm into a money-making reality At age fifty-two , after years of working her way up the corporate ladder, Clara Villarosa found herself out of a job. But she didn't let that get her down. Instead, she put her gifts to the test and started her own business, which became one of the country's best-known independent specialty bookstores—The Hue-Man Bookstore. Now, twenty years and two successful stores later, Clara is a highly sought-after business coach and expert in the industry.Down to Business expands on Villarosa's proven "First 10 Steps to Entrepreneurship for Women" to offer women everywhere a targeted plan to help them launch the small business of their dreams. This book includes advice on:How to develop realistic business ideas by researching the industryAnalyzing a competitor's marketing approach and attracting your ideal customer Accumulating the start-up funds you need, from recruiting investors to using loans wiselyScouting the ideal location Creating a sound business plan—and beyond—with a simple, step-by-step strategyPacked with stories of businesswomen at all stages of the game—from a beer connoisseur-turned-brewer to an avid reader-turned-literary agent—Villarosa brings together inspiring, real-life stories with her award-winning business savvy. Encouraging and empowering, Down to Business will get you motivated to dust off your dream and get your plan into action.