Business Tips - Vol. 1

Fight ID Theft

Individuals are not the only ones affected by identity theft. The Federal Trade Commission provides a business site dedicated to helping companies fight back against identity theft, which can cause irreparable damage to a business that loses customer data. At www.ftc.gov, business owners can find a range of educational tools to help with the following: assisting victims, handling data breaches, and safeguarding important business and customer information.

Drug-Free Workplace Alliance

The Drug-Free Workplace Alliance is a Department of Labor (DOL) cooperative focused on improving employee safety and health through drug-free workplace programs. It is focused on the construction industry, which research shows has high rates of employee drug and alcohol abuse. Alliance members have created a variety of training and educational materials, including employee-friendly brochures and presentations, on workplace alcohol and drug abuse prevention. Visit www.dol.gov for more information.

SBA Emerging 200

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is seeking to support inner-city businesses across the country that show a high potential for growth through its SBA Emerging 200 initiative. The program will provide companies with the network and resources required to build a business of size and scale that will, in turn, generate new jobs, attract investment, and provide a more sustainable economic base in distressed areas. For more information, visit www.sba.gov.