Practical guides on starting, running, and growing a business. Written by experienced operators with no jargon, no fluff, and no upsell.
The cornerstone guide. A 30-day, step-by-step plan from validating your idea to landing your first paying customer. Written by an experienced operator.
The fundamentals every founder needs to know.
A working business plan in one weekend. Templates, structure, and the sections that actually matter to bankers, investors, and your own clear thinking.
OperationsCost-plus, value-based, and competitive pricing explained. Plus the most common mistakes that leave money on the table.
GrowthProven, low-cost marketing tactics: referral programs, community presence, email, content basics. What works when you have more time than money.
OperationsWhen to hire, where to find candidates, how to interview, what paperwork you need, payroll basics, and the W-2 vs. 1099 question.
FinanceSBA loans, community lenders, grants, friends-and-family rounds, equity investors. What each one is, when to use it, and how to apply.
⭐ Member BenefitThrough our community partnerships, GOF members can complete incorporation, EIN, and registered agent service without paying a formation fee. State filing fees only.
Additional guides we're writing or sourcing from our mentor community.
Estimated quarterly tax payments for self-employed people and small business owners, explained without the IRS jargon.
Vendor-neutral comparison of website builders, plus the one-page structure that works for any new business.
LLC vs. S-Corp vs. Sole Proprietor vs. Partnership, with a decision tree and a "when to call a lawyer" note.
What documents you need, how to choose a bank, what fees to watch for, and the case for separating from day one.