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Have you ever been part of the team responsible for planning or organizing the necessary tasks to get a website off the ground (or redesigned)? If so, you probably know a thing or two about website project management from firsthand experience.
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With a month left in 2023, there’s still time for small businesses to apply for grants to cover various expenses or kick off new projects for 2024. Luckily, there are plenty of programs currently accepting applications across the U.S. Read on for a list.
York County, Pennsylvania is supporting women-owned small businesses through its 2023 BLOOM Grant Program. The BLOOM Business Empowerment Center, which is a program of the York County Economic Alliance, is facilitating the program. Eligible women-owned businesses in the county can apply for grants of up to $1,500, with total amounts based on need and potential impact. December 1 is the deadline to apply.
California is currently providing grant funds for small agricultural businesses that have been financially impacted by severe drought and/or flooding. Eligible businesses can apply for up to $100,000, with various criteria and rules for businesses in different drought and/or flood groups. December 1 is the final deadline to apply.
Crisfield, Maryland is allocating $150,000 of its federal American Rescue Plan Act funds to a new small business grant program. The Small Business Retention Assistance Grant plans to award $3,000 grants to 50 local shops, which they can use to cover various operational needs. Qualifications include having at least one year in business, fewer than 25 employees, and not being part of a franchise or national corporation. December 5 is the due date for applications.
Gran Coramino®Tequila, a tequila brand founded by comedian Kevin Hart and tequila maker Juan Domingo Beckmann, is launching a new round of applications for The Coramino Fund. This program provides grants and educational programming to Black and Latinx entrepreneurs around the country. Eligible businesses can apply for up to $10,000 now through December 5.
The city of Sacramento is dedicating $3.5 million to a new round of grant funding, which will support small businesses and nonprofit organizations in North Sacramento through two separate programs. The first program, the North Sacramento Façade and Property Improvement Grant Program is available to small businesses and nonprofits located along either Marysville Boulevard or Del Paso Boulevard. Eligible businesses can apply for between $5,000 to $30,000 to cover various exterior enhancements. The second grant, the North Sacramento Transformative Reinvestment Grant Program, is for small businesses and nonprofits within District 2 boundaries. Funds can be used to create or retain jobs, or expand existing programs or services. Applications for both programs are due by December 5.
Waynesboro, Virginia recently received a $100,000 grant from the state to help local businesses with everything from ecommerce consulting to facade improvements. The Virginia Statewide Business District Resurgence Grant is meant for businesses in downtown or neighboring areas. Waynesboro plans to use these funds to expand its current façade grant program to a larger area and reach a larger number of underserved businesses. Applications are due by December 20.
Canton, New York is currently running its Canton CARES Small Business Grant Program. Local small businesses with less than 25 employees that faced hardships due to the pandemic may qualify for grant funds. Canton’s Office of Economic Development is pre-screening applicants to make sure they meet the criteria. So interested businesses should reach out to the office for more details and application materials. December 20 is the deadline to submit an application.
The Pittsfield Glow Up! Business Improvement Grant Program is currently open for businesses in Pittsfield, Massachusetts to apply for grants. Eligible businesses can apply for funds to cover various physical improvements like painting and signage. This is the second round of funding for the program, and it is not open to businesses that received funds during the first round. Businesses not selected in the first round may reapply for the second round. Applications for this funding round are due by December 31.
King County, Washington is launching a new grant program to support small businesses in unincorporated King County that have experienced vandalism or break-ins since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The King County Department of Local Services Storefront Repair Program is open to small businesses with ten employees or less that have experienced damage from vandalism since March 2020. The program provides a one-time grant of up to $5,000 to repair and restore storefronts. The application period closes December 31.
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![20 Best Filmmaker Website Examples We Love [+ How To Make Your Own]](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/3pG46rohpxjh8Gc6rCZo_xt0Mp7sSSMdM4_TQO4PTGfSJ3IP2uiCNlHXTD-9GRN2tF4KO22m1mQ9jhcTLQHuP1FHXBLEVVHskrmCfezXym-FWG_Zx6V3gFrHzCMi8oWalZgI3QC9CA3yf2HjV0OAI4w)
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As a filmmaker, a website opens up numerous opportunities — from attracting new audiences to converting clients. It acts as a digital one-stop shop for your work.
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Today, accountants are expected to go beyond providing traditional services like day-to-day accounting, bookkeeping, financial reporting, auditing, and tax filing. Clients also expect insights on an organizational level, like how to curb spend, identifying new revenue sources, and accelerating company growth. However, to provide these bespoke services with excellence, accounting professionals require a holistic view of their clients’ businesses while they’re efficiently running their own firm’s operations.
“Managed services,” as these offerings are known, will soon be something clients look for, first and foremost, so it’s wise for accountants to start reconfiguring their tech stack right away. The financial world is changing more rapidly than ever, and the only way to effectively remain ahead of the curve is to find software that sets the pace appropriately fast. Here are some key considerations for accounting firms, particularly small and medium sized businesses, to have in mind when upgrading to offer managed services.
The foundation for great accountant-client collaborations begins at the bottom of the tech stack itself. There has to be at least a base level of communication between the two systems to ensure accuracy of records, ease of financial transfers, and the utmost security.
When deciding on a platform upon which to offer managed services, vendors need to look beyond their own needs and consider the ways in which clients might interface with the chosen software. Managed services have to go both ways—the client’s system must include flawless integration with the one chosen by the vendor, and vice versa.
Good news: The easiest way to accomplish this feat is also the most effective and cheapest one. Accountants can look for supporting software, built by the same vendor, that exists as part of a larger tech ecosystem. This enables the vendor running their own business with complete transparency across the organization and inserting client updates into workflows and pipelines effortlessly, as the two pieces of software were built either in conjunction with, or in support of, one another. Often, the client-facing software is one they’ve been using anyway; or, if it’s something new for the client, most modern financial tech includes options for customization and scalability, ensuring the transition from one platform to another goes smoothly.
Don’t forget that with transparency into client finances, accounting firms can begin to offer insights with pinpoint accuracy, beginning a true partnership with clients.
The right software solution for accountants will be able to evolve alongside the company itself, but without meeting the needs of that company today, the software will fall flat and stifle growth from the get-go.
Many of the offerings available meet those needs, and then some. Accountants can look for software equipped with industry-first functionalities built from the ground up for distributed firms, including AI-driven anomaly detection for client records; built-in collaboration through chat, voice, or video calls; and a unified platform to act as a single source of truth for all client services. That last point is of particular importance: accurate consolidation of financial records is perhaps the single most critical aspect of great software. If a vendor’s software can’t match the functionality of, say, a calculator, there are problems right away.
Of course, the goal of any accounting firm offering managed services is to grow its client base, meaning the software has to be intuitive so new employees can quickly get up-to-speed and offer supreme customer service, kicking off a word-of-mouth cycle that will begin attracting new customers.
For even more interoperability, accountants have to look at how customization is treated within a vendor’s system. Some platforms offer tools with which accountants can implement precise solutions and specifications in calibrating software; and, when it comes to considering software upon which large financial transactions will be executed, the more specific an accounting firm can be with their tech, the better.
As the SaaS industry has grown, companies have begun introducing enterprise-grade features into software intended for small and medium sized businesses, affording accounting firms of all sizes the opportunity to compete with bigger players. This often takes one of two forms: an extension marketplace and a developer portal.
The ability to add extensions to accounting software ensures firms are always running at their fullest potential. A vendor’s marketplaces offer a wide range of options often influenced by the needs of their other customers, no matter how particular. This also ensures these additional solutions are based on real-world business cases rather than theoretical ones cooked up by developers with no accounting experience. Vendors who place a premium on customer satisfaction will often offer many of these extensions for free, or for only a nominal fee. In fact, some marketplaces allow for third party developers to upload their own solutions and collect 100% of the profits, opening an additional revenue stream.
For even further customization, accountants might consider a platform that includes a developer portal for building extensions themselves. It might sound like this option is only suited for hardcore programmers with a comprehensive technical background, but low code technology has become a staple of SaaS, and companies will find it put to good use within these portals. All employees at accounting firms, even those with a significant lack of technical know-how can complete extensions of their own to elevate the software they already run, offering the ability to tweak to a company’s exact specifications.
The decision on small business software is not to be taken lightly. Choosing the right one is like hiring for manager-level positions within a company—employees will be working with the technology on an everyday basis for just about every task. It must support the work they are already doing and empower these same employees to easily go above-and-beyond. Clients will feel secure if their accounting firm is looking to the future; that’s where true success can be found, together.
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Banners are some of the oldest forms of advertising. Given their effectiveness, it’s no surprise that businesses continue to use them to promote their goods and services today.
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Building your online presence doesn’t have to break the bank. In 2023, the digital world is buzzing with free website builders that are easy to use and packed with features. We’ve rounded up 10 of the best options to help you create a stunning website without spending a dime. Let’s dive in!
Wix shines as the best free website builder, offering an unbeatable blend of user-friendliness and advanced customization. Its intuitive drag-and-drop editor allows for creative freedom, while a vast range of templates caters to various styles. Additionally, Wix’s robust app market and effective SEO tools enhance your website’s functionality and online visibility. Ideal for personal blogs, portfolios, or small businesses, Wix adapts to your needs, making it a top choice for creating a unique online presence. Explore the possibilities with Wix and embark on building your website effortlessly. It’s the perfect free web hosting platform for crafting a professional and engaging site.
Now, let’s explore the best free site builders that stand out in 2023. Each offers unique features to launch your site with style and ease.
Weebly stands out as a user-friendly option for those new to website creation. With over 50 million websites under its belt, it’s known for its straightforward, beginner-friendly approach, despite being a bit outdated compared to other platforms.
Key Features:
Weebly excels in its ease of use, especially for beginners, and offers an improved app store. It’s an excellent choice for basic websites, offering step-by-step guidance, particularly in SEO.
However, Weebly’s limitations include a restrictive editor with limited customization options, outdated designs, and poor mobile optimization.
Weebly’s pricing ranges from a free plan to a $26 monthly Performance plan, billed annually. The Personal plan at $10/month allows for a custom domain, while the Professional plan at $12/month offers more professional features. The advanced Performance plan, at $26/month, is ideal for business websites.
Wix is renowned for its flexibility and user-friendliness, making it a top choice for both beginners and seasoned web designers. This popular platform offers a range of customizable options to cater to various website-building needs.
Key Features:
Wix’s highly customizable templates and user-friendly drag-and-drop editor make it ideal for all skill levels. The platform’s vast app market and sophisticated SEO tools further enhance its functionality.
However, the abundance of options in Wix can be overwhelming for beginners, and it might have a steeper learning curve compared to simpler builders.
Wix offers a free plan for basic use and recently revised its pricing model to four paid plans. The Light plan starts at $16 per month, suitable for most small business needs. For online stores, the Core plan is available at $27 per month, providing ecommerce functionality. The Business Plan costs $32 per month, and the Business Elite Plan is priced at $159 per month.
Hubspot Website Builder, a key component of HubSpot’s all-in-one marketing platform, seamlessly combines advanced marketing tools with efficient website creation. It’s specially tailored for businesses eager to amplify their online presence through integrated marketing and website management.
Key Features:
The Hubspot Website Builder is highly valued for integrating marketing and website management. It offers robust SEO optimization, comprehensive analytics, and effective customer management tools, all wrapped up in an intuitive interface.
However, the platform’s advanced features and complexity might be challenging for beginners. It’s tailored more towards established businesses than small startups, given its broad range of functionalities.
Hubspot’s plans start at $23/month for the Starter and go up to $1,200/month for the Enterprise plan, each offering a range of features suitable for different business sizes.
Webnode simplifies website building with its straightforward design and functionality. It’s ideal for those who prefer ease of use over extensive customization, offering a practical platform for basic website creation.
Key Features:
Webnode shines with its easy-to-use editor and solid template choices. It’s designed for simplicity, catering well to beginners or those needing basic websites.
Webnode’s simplicity means limited customization options, no app center, basic blogging tools, and no support for digital product sales.
Webnode’s pricing includes a free version and four premium plans. The Limited plan is $4.00/month, the Mini plan is $7.50/month, the Standard plan is $12.90/month, and the Profi plan is $22.90/month. Each plan varies in features like storage and bandwidth, catering to different user needs.
Site123 is tailored for individuals and small businesses needing a simple, no-fuss website-building experience. It’s particularly suited for personal websites, hobbyists, and small business sites requiring a basic online presence without the need for coding skills.
Key Features:
Site123 excels in providing strong support and mobile-responsive designs. Its simplicity makes it an excellent option for beginners who don’t need complex functionalities.
However, Site123’s editor lacks the creative flexibility of drag-and-drop functionality, limiting design options. It also falls short in variety between templates, and its free plan is quite restrictive.
Site123 offers a free plan and five premium plans. The Basic plan is $12.80 per month, Advanced at $9.90 per month, Professional at $14.40 per month, Gold at $17.40 per month, and the Platinum plan at $37.50 per month. These plans are designed to cater to varying needs, from simple personal websites to more feature-rich business sites.
Godaddy Website Builder is a beginner-friendly platform that leverages Artificial Design Intelligence (ADI) to streamline the website creation process. It’s especially suitable for beginners aiming to quickly publish simple websites with minimal effort.
Key Features:
Godaddy is known for its speed in website creation, offering an intuitive and user-friendly experience. It stands out for its affordable pricing plans, making it a cost-effective choice for those starting out.
However, Godaddy’s simplicity comes at the cost of creative freedom. The restrictive block elements and the lack of depth in some features might be limiting for more advanced users. Additionally, websites created with Godaddy may not be as visually appealing as those made with other builders.
Godaddy offers a free plan for initial exploration. Its paid plans start at $11.99/month for the Basic plan, $21.99/month for the Premium plan, $24.99/month for the Commerce plan, and $44.99/month for the Commerce Plus plan.
Mozello offers a straightforward solution for small businesses and individuals looking to create simple websites or a free online store. It’s particularly suitable for those who want to quickly start a basic site without any complex features.
Key Features:
Mozello’s ease of setup, free domain with affordable plans, and e-commerce capabilities make it a good choice for small-scale online stores or personal websites.
However, the platform has limitations in terms of customization, features, and blog functionalities, which may not suit users looking for comprehensive website-building tools.
Mozello offers a free plan, with its premium plans priced at $10 per month for the Premium and $20 per month for the Premium Plus.
Jimdo is designed for users seeking a quick way to build a website. It’s particularly well-suited for beginners or small business owners who need a basic online presence without complex functionalities.
Key Features:
Jimdo’s main advantage is its simplicity, making it perfect for beginners. It offers a hassle-free approach to website building, perfect for those who need a basic online presence.
However, Jimdo’s simplicity means limited customization and advanced features, which might not be suitable for users looking for more robust website-building tools.
Jimdo’s pricing starts with a free ‘Play’ plan. Its premium plans include ‘Start’ at $9 per month and ‘Grow’ at $14 per month, offering various features for different user needs.
Webstarts is designed for those seeking a simple, user-friendly website-building experience. It offers a platform suitable for personal websites or small business sites, making it a viable option for users who want to quickly establish an online presence.
Key Features:
Webstarts is appreciated for its simplicity and ease of use, making it a good choice for beginners or those looking for a quick solution to get their website up and running.
However, it may not be the best option for users seeking advanced functionalities or highly customizable designs, as it offers more basic features.
Webstarts provides a free plan, and its premium plans are priced at $4.89 per month for the Pro plan and $19.99 per month for the Business plan.
Ucraft stands out for its streamlined approach to website building, catering to users seeking a blend of simplicity and functionality. It’s an excellent tool for creating digital storefronts or professional-looking personal websites with ease.
Key Features:
Ucraft excels with its intuitive design tools, making it accessible for users with basic computer skills. Its templates are modern and responsive, and its app store offers a range of functionalities for enhanced website performance.
However, Ucraft might not be ideal for users seeking extensive customization without additional costs. Its templates, while functional, are somewhat limited in variety.
Ucraft provides a free website plan, while its premium plans include Pro Website at $10.00, Pro Shop at $21.00, and BigCommerce at $69.00 per month.
Selecting the right website builder can be a game-changer for your online presence. Here are four key factors to consider when choosing a free website builder.
The best website builders make the design process straightforward, even for beginners. Look for a user-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality. This feature allows you to easily place elements like text, images, and buttons on your webpage, saving you time and hassle. A builder with an intuitive layout and simple navigation helps you focus on creating content, not learning complex software.
A good website builder should offer ample customization options to help your site stand out. Check for a wide range of templates, color schemes, and font choices. The ability to tweak these elements ensures your website reflects your brand or personal style. Builders that offer advanced customization options, like editing HTML and CSS, provide even more flexibility for those who have some technical know-how.
Consider the features and integrations each builder offers. Essential features might include SEO tools, mobile responsiveness, and e-commerce capabilities. Also, look for integrations with third-party services like social media platforms, email marketing tools, and analytics. These integrations can enhance your website’s functionality and make it a powerful tool for your online strategy.
Reliable customer support and a wealth of resources are vital, especially for those new to website building. A builder with a proactive support team, extensive FAQs, tutorials, and community forums can be incredibly helpful. These resources ensure you have guidance at every step of your website-building journey, from troubleshooting issues to mastering advanced features.
| Aspect | Description | Tools/Resources | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Choosing a Builder | Select a website builder that suits your business needs. | Wix, Weebly, WordPress.com. | Consider ease of use, design flexibility, and specific features. |
| Template Selection | Choose a template that aligns with your brand and business type. | Template galleries within the builder. | Look for professional, customizable, and mobile-responsive templates. |
| Customization | Personalize the template with your brand colors, fonts, and logos. | Built-in customization tools. | Ensure your website reflects your brand identity. |
| Content Creation | Develop clear, concise, and engaging content for your site. | Content management features in the builder. | Include essential business information and compelling call-to-actions. |
| SEO Optimization | Utilize SEO tools to improve your website’s visibility on search engines. | SEO features in the builder, Google Analytics. | Incorporate relevant keywords and meta descriptions. |
| Integrating Media | Add high-quality images and videos relevant to your business. | Free stock image libraries, video hosting platforms. | Visuals should enhance the user experience, not slow it down. |
| Contact Information | Clearly display your contact information and location. | Contact form builders, Google Maps integration. | Make it easy for visitors to reach out or find your business. |
| Social Media Integration | Connect your website to your social media profiles. | Social media linking features. | Facilitates cross-platform engagement with your audience. |
| Mobile Responsiveness | Ensure your website looks good and functions well on mobile devices. | Mobile preview and editing tools. | A significant portion of web traffic is mobile; don’t miss out on this audience. |
| Analytics and Feedback | Use analytics to understand visitor behavior and gather feedback. | Google Analytics, website feedback tools. | Monitor your website’s performance and make data-driven improvements. |
Navigating the costs of building a small business website or online store in 2023 is a balance of affordability and quality. With options ranging from free DIY builders to professional services, your investment can vary widely. Professional designs may cost $5,000 to $20,000, depending on complexity. Simple sites start around $100, but custom features can push costs up to $30,000. It’s about finding the sweet spot where cost meets functionality, ensuring your online venture is both successful and financially sustainable.
Cost of Starting a Business:
“Navigating the costs of building a small business website or online store in 2023 is crucial, especially when considering the overall cost of starting a business. Understanding these costs helps in better financial planning and effective budget allocation for your online venture.”
Web Credibility:
“A well-designed website enhances your web credibility. It’s a key factor in establishing trust with your audience, particularly for small businesses looking to make a significant impact online.”
Graphic Design Tools:
“Utilizing the right graphic design tools can significantly improve the aesthetics of your website, ensuring it is not only functional but also visually appealing to visitors.”
Website Features:
“Including essential website features can make your site more user-friendly and efficient. These features should align with your business goals and user expectations.”
Small Business Marketing Statistics:
“Awareness of small business marketing statistics can guide your online strategy, helping you to make informed decisions about how to effectively market your website and engage with your audience.”
WordPress Alternatives:
“Exploring WordPress alternatives can offer different perspectives and options for building your website, particularly if you’re looking for specific features or a different user experience.”
AI Website Builder:
“Considering an AI website builder can provide innovative solutions for creating your website, especially if you’re looking for automated design options and smart customization.”
Website Web Presence:
“Establishing a strong website web presence is key to online success. Your website is often the first point of contact with your audience, so it’s important to make a good impression.”
What is WordPress?:
“For those considering a content management system, understanding what is WordPress? and how it works can provide insights into one of the most popular platforms for website creation.”
Checklist of Creating a Website:
“Following a checklist of creating a website can ensure that you cover all the essential aspects of website development, from planning to launch.”
WordPress Themes for Blogs:
“Selecting the right WordPress themes for blogs can greatly influence the look and feel of your blog, aligning it with your brand’s identity and content strategy.”
How Much Does a Website Cost:
“Understanding how much does a website cost is essential for budgeting and financial planning, especially for small businesses or startups looking to establish an online presence.”
Shopify Vs Squarespace:
“Comparing platforms like Shopify vs Squarespace can help you decide which e-commerce solution is best suited for your business needs.”
Shopify Themes:
“Choosing the right Shopify themes can enhance the look of your online store, making it more attractive and functional for your customers.”
What is Shopify?:
“For those considering an e-commerce platform, learning about what is Shopify can provide valuable insights into one of the leading solutions in the market.”
Creating a Business from Scratch:
“When creating a business from scratch, having a well-designed website can play a crucial role in establishing your brand and reaching your target audience.”
Choosing the Best Website Builder:
“When choosing the best website builder, consider factors like ease of use, customization options, and the specific needs of your business.”
Landing Page Builders:
“Using effective landing page builders can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns and improve user engagement.”
Ecommerce Software:
“Selecting the right ecommerce software is critical for building a successful online store and providing a seamless shopping experience for your customers.”
Investing in a paid website builder unlocks a world of advanced features, customization, and dedicated support, making it a worthy choice for those serious about their online presence. The difference lies in the finer details – enhanced design options, robust e-commerce tools, and superior SEO capabilities. It’s an investment that pays off by elevating your site above the rest, offering a professional edge in the digital landscape.
As we wrap up, remember that the right free website builder can elevate your online presence without straining your wallet. The ten options we’ve explored in 2023 offer a mix of ease, customization, and robust features whether you want to sell online via your own website or are looking to create a portfolio. Choose wisely, and you’re on your way to building a stunning website that resonates with your audience.
Most free website builders typically make money through ads displayed on your site or by offering premium plans. These plans often include advanced features or remove ads from the free sites, enticing users to upgrade.
Free websites can be SEO-friendly, but they often lack advanced SEO tools available in paid versions. This can limit your site’s visibility and ranking on search engines compared to paid services.
Website builders are generally scalable, allowing you to start with a basic site and expand as your business grows. However, the scalability may vary, with some offering more extensive features for growing sites.
Yes, most website builders are designed for users without coding skills. They offer drag-and-drop interfaces, templates, and visual editors, making it easy to create and customize websites without any coding.
Many website builders include basic SEO tools, like meta tags and descriptions. However, more advanced SEO features, such as keyword support and analytics, are often reserved for paid plans.
The easiest free website builder often depends on personal preference, but platforms like Wix and Weebly are renowned for their user-friendly interfaces and a wide range of customizable templates.
Yes, you can build a website completely free using various website builders. These platforms typically offer basic features and templates, allowing you to create a simple, functional website at no cost.
Image: Envato Elements
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