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Slump Batters Small Business,
Threatening Owners' Dreams
For many small businesses across the country, these are scary times. The dramatic pullback in consumer spending is only the latest blow threatening to push some strapped small businesses out of existence.

Car Dealers Face Struggles
For decades, selling cars paved a path to wealth across America. But the industry has never before faced the forces now slowing sales to a crawl.
- Photos: Two Dealerships
Holiday Slump Threatens Small Retailers
Small retailers who don't have the margins to compete on price are scrambling to sell by hosting events, offering gifts and personalized services.
- For Solo Business Owners, No Holiday Slowdown
Stores Count Seconds to Cut Costs
With nearly all retailers under the gun to cut costs and improve profit margins, "labor-waste elimination" systems are sweeping the industry.
Some Firms Suspend 401(k) Match
Advantages of Leasing Equipment
Late Payers Hurt Small Businesses
Small Firms' Take On Insurance Reform
In Chaos Lies Opportunity
Prescription for Change
States Set New Data Privacy Laws
Firms Struggle With Commodities Costs
My Brain, Your Brawn
A Perfect Match?
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Companies Trim as Business Slows
Companies are looking for cuts in every budgetary nook and cranny in an economy dragged down by slowing consumption, an imploding stock market and tight credit.
Looking to Executive M.B.A.s to Help Grow a Business
Business owners look to executive M.B.A. programs for help improving their operations, profits and business models, a Wall Street Journal survey shows.
Starting Up
What Business Owners Should Know About Patenting
Patent lawyer James McDonough discusses the steps that inventors can take to protect their intellectual property.