You've no doubt heard the last thing you want to do in a bad economy is start a business...WRONG! Some of the largest most successful companies have had their start in past recessions and even during the great depression. When creative people are unemployed or underemployed, their talents must have an outlet and starting their own business is often their way of making use of their abilities. Expanding Your Borders is your guide to starting and operating your own successful business without spending months of your time and thousands of dollars on a business degree. Learn business plan basics giving you a competitive edge when it comes to dominating your marketplace and seeking the limited financing available today. A sample business plan included in the appendix can be customized to apply to your business. You will also learn how to build business relationships that can lead to strategic alliances and joint ventures that will help build your business into an economic powerhouse.