Dec. 3, 2009 - As someone who prides himself in being a salesman, I am not used to rejecting an order, particularly when it is a very large order – but that's precisely what I did a few years ago when I was launching a new life sciences company. The client was a major international drug discovery company and on my first visit to their offices to make an initial presentation, they offered me a six-figure contract.

Dec. 3, 2009 - What a year! For many, 2009 is a year they would like to forget. Between overleveraged mortgages, banks that failed or were too big to fail, and a restructuring of the auto industry, many individuals and businesses alike are ready to ring in 2010 with a more hopeful outlook. In the coming months, the health care debate, business incentives and changes to the tax code will be at the forefront of local and national debates.

September 3, 2009 - Have you always had a creative mind and dreams of starting your own business? In spite of this, do you somehow still find yourself stuck in a cubicle staring at a computer screen all day? You may be rationalizing your unhappy state day-to-day as “normal” simply “just like everyone else” and thinking “I am just lucky to be working.”

September 3, 2009 – Corp! magazine honored the entrepreneurs and executives who are moving the Michigan economy forward with innovative thinking and exceptional leadership at a celebration featuring high-powered networking, a panel discussion and awards ceremony at Michigan State University’s Management Education Center on Aug. 25, 2009.

July/August, 2009 - As an increasing number of people, and Michiganders in particular, begin rethinking their career choices, the idea of starting their own business seems to be high on their list. Many will seek partners or invest in themselves using savings or buyout money. Some will seek conventional loans from banks or credit unions.

August 20, 2009 - I was very early for the closing of a deal to finance the new company that I was starting with the backing from two wealthy investors. It was my first start-up and the investors had asked me to meet them in the offices of their accountant which turned out to be a pokey Dickensian office in London’s financial district. The accountant and I passed the time of day while we waited for the men with the money to arrive and write the checks to fund my new business.