This business resource is invaluable for those who lack the formal training, or are simply undermanned and need an electronic business resource to take over certain functions.



The business resource is also important even for seasoned entrepreneurs who want to master the new media, the Internet. Here are some of the most crucial business resource sites for the entrepreneur:

• Business and financial websites. This business resource gives quick and up to date information like stock market prices. Many of the bigger business resource websites also carry useful articles written by industry experts.

• Online calculators. How much will that loan cost you? How long will it take to pay off? These are just some of the questions online calculators can answer for you. While this business resource can't replace a good finance manager (it can only punch the numbers, not give advice) it is the ideal business resource for small businesses that just need general figures to gauge where they are, financially.

• Accounting software. Can't hire an accountant? This business resource makes it very simple to keep on top of your business's financial documents.

• Online courses. You can study anything from engine marketing search to how to make money from a blog to search engine ranking secrets. A valuable business resource for people who want to learn more about running a company but may not have the time or funds to go back to school.

• Entrepreneur forums. The best business resource will always be people who can share their experiences, give advice and “mentor” you through the ups and downs of running a company. You can get this sense of community at entrepreneur forums, which often link to articles, columns and other business resource listings.

• Newsletters. It's more productive business resource than most breakfast meetings: the email newsletter. Open your inbox and find practical advice, inspiring quotes or a link to a good website The best part of this business resource is that it's usually free and can give a wealth of information in the time it takes to drink a cup of coffee.