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Health & Fitness

You May Be Today’s New Face of Entrepreneurship - Part 2

The face of today's entrepreneur is changing, shifting from a frustrated, seasoned professional to one that is ready to bust through barriers.

Last week I first introduced the idea of why today is your day...the day to take control of your professional destiny by becoming your own boss through entrepreneurship. 

The face of today's entrepreneur is changing, shifting from a frustrated, seasoned professional to one that is ready to bust through barriers.

Despite the fact that Chicago’s unemployment rate still holds stubbornly above 8 percent, there is a revitalized group of savvy new entrepreneurs who have had enough negativity associated with finding a job, and are happily focused on taking matters into their own hands. 

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The conscientious effort to turn to entrepreneurism is fueling small business start-ups. This is the case for people who have even been unemployed for quite some time – months, maybe years even, as well as people looking for a career change. I’m observing more people interested in owning a business doing sound due diligence – speaking with experienced entrepreneurs and experts in the field to figure out the best way to move forward. They are seizing this unique entrepreneurial moment in our nation’s history.

Helping stir growth is recent legislation, including the Jobs Act, which provides small businesses access to capital by facilitating crowdfunding. Companies can pool up to $1 million without registering with the SEC, or up to $2 million if they provide audited financial statements. The Act also axes an SEC rule that prohibited small businesses from using advertising to solicit investors, and it  offers tax benefits to small businesses.

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Fortunately, the business environment here in Chicagoland is gradually growing; the unemployment rate is under 9 percent for the first time in several years. If you recall, it was higher than 11 percent two years ago. There is a stronger workforce in Chicagoland and the environment is ripe for more entrepreneurial and small business growth.

Next week, I'll be wrapping up this discussion, showcasing how franchise ownership today is "The American Dream" with a safety net.

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