Acquiring your property is among the leading financial goals of many people. If you are one of them, you are probably looking for the security of putting your money into something solid and at low risk and protecting your assets against the effects of inflation.

Many people’s first thought is to acquire a home or apartment to live in, but did you know that making a real estate investment can also be an excellent opportunity to earn extra income?

In this post, we’ll show you how to invest in real estate in several ways, transforming your real estate assets and increasing your equity. Regardless of your profile, you will find something perfectly suited to your needs here. Check it out!

Grounds

Land is known as a great wealth generator. It usually values quickly and can be sold for much more than when it was purchased. This gives you the chance to reinvest the money.

You may have noticed that the outskirts of big capitals grow reasonably rapidly. Brazil is a country in a constant horizontal expansion of its cities, making land that today is too far away can, in a short time, gain prominence in terms of location.

Property in Plant

New real estate ventures always appear, and the possibility of acquiring a property is still in the plant. The builders provide this modality in the initial stages of the works when buying the units for more accessible values than when they are complete.

As a result, several investors acquire this type of property to resell when they are ready to be occupied. According to the works, it is also possible to negotiate the property value in the plant before this period – representing an exciting earnings opportunity.

Property Used

While so many people are looking for brand-new housing, you can find real relics if you can. After all, it is not uncommon for buyers to desire used real estate cases that require only a few renovations.

So, how about investing in purchasing one of these properties and benefiting from their appreciation after making the improvements? Remember that you need to look at a location with the investor’s eyes, assessing your real profit possibilities compared to the amount applied.

Commercial Real Estate

The growth of cities brings an increase in the number of residences, shops, markets, malls, schools, etc. Fundamental to tracking population growth, commercial real estate can also be an excellent alternative to investing in real estate.  

The business may be even more interesting for those who can make this investment in times of crisis since the value of this type of property falls considerably in these periods. However, we must consider that the liquidity of this business can be low since the demand for companies and industries that could occupy these spaces tends to fall.

Real Estate That Changes Category

A feature of the real estate market is that many real estate lose their initial purpose’s attractiveness for many reasons. This situation causes them to become underutilized, opening the possibility of changing the category to attract more interest in a negotiation.

Financing

It may seem strange to discuss financing to invest in real estate, doesn’t it? After all, this is a financial transaction in which you must pay an amount with interest, which could even exceed the expected returns on investment.

This modality is usually more sought by those hurrying to acquire property, especially when using it as their dwelling. However, even among those who want to make the property investment, funding may be engaging in some cases.

Consortium

If you do not have the money you need to acquire a property but do not want to miss out on the opportunities in that market, the consortium is the right choice. Unlike the financing, the real estate consortium does not include interest, and the plots are much more affordable.  

In this modality, the participant becomes part of a group of stakeholders with the same amount of credit for purchasing real estate. Some of them contemplate each month, which can happen by lot or bidding (when you anticipate the payment of a certain number of remaining parcels).

With the letter of credit in hand, it is much easier to acquire the desired property. It is considered a form of cash payment, which gives its holder excellent negotiating power.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

In the dynamic business landscape, maximizing profits is a constant pursuit for every company. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, implementing strategies to enhance profitability is crucial for sustained success. In this guide, we’ll explore five actionable tips to help you optimize your company’s financial performance and achieve greater profitability. From cutting expenses and optimizing production to refining marketing strategies and implementing efficient payment plans, these tips offer practical insights to elevate your bottom line and drive long-term success in today’s competitive marketplace.

Here are five tips for you to maximize profits in your company.

Cut Expenses

To cut expenses effectively

1. Start by thoroughly investigating your spending habits.
2. Analyze all general expenses, including essential services like electricity, and explore ways to minimize costs.
3. If available, consider leveraging virtual communication and telecommuting options to avoid high rental or office space costs.

Utilizing Internet services for meetings with partners and clients can significantly reduce travel expenses, saving time and money on transportation.

Optimize Production and Warehouse

To optimize production and warehouse operations, analyze the expenses associated with your production lines to enhance operational efficiency. Study the costs of raw materials over time and adjust sale prices accordingly to compensate for any increases. Additionally, consider leasing machinery or equipment after conducting a long-term analysis of costs and benefits.

Evaluate your warehouse and inventory to maximize space utilization, identify stagnant products, and adjust production accordingly. Remember, excess inventory ties up valuable capital that could be invested in more profitable opportunities. Addressing warehouse operations inefficiencies minimizes labor, space, equipment, and inventory waste.

Price vs. Quality

When considering price versus quality, prioritize areas of your business that generate the most income. Focus on optimizing the quality of your product or service to build a strong reputation and retain loyal customers. Enhancing quality allows you to justify higher prices, as customers recognize and appreciate superior offerings. A successful business doesn’t necessarily mean low prices; customers value quality, enabling you to increase profits by delivering superior products or services.

Subcontract Intelligently

When considering subcontracting, small businesses should carefully weigh the advantages and drawbacks of outsourcing essential functions such as HR, IT, accounting, sales, and manufacturing. While maintaining full-time, in-house talent can benefit some aspects of operations. Outsourcing offers significant cost-saving opportunities by avoiding salaries, benefits, and office space expenses.

Additionally, outsourcing provides access to specialized expertise and resources, allowing businesses to improve efficiency and performance without extensive investments in training or infrastructure. However, companies must also consider potential drawbacks, such as loss of control and communication challenges, and carefully vet outsourcing partners to ensure reliability and quality.

Optimize Your Marketing Plan

To optimize your marketing plan

1. Pinpoint the most lucrative customer segments and target your advertising efforts there.
2. Establish a strong digital presence across platforms like Facebook and Twitter, crafting a comprehensive social media strategy.
3. Use channels like print, internet, radio, and TV to reach your target audience effectively.
4. Implement a referral program to incentivize existing customers to bring in new business.
5. Provide payment plans

Implementing payment plans is essential to enhance financial management and facilitate collections. Businesses can improve their cash flow and overall profitability by minimizing expenses associated with collection procedures and mitigating losses. Clear and well-defined payment plans allow customers to settle their debts in a structured manner, reducing the likelihood of missed payments and delays.

Ultimately, prioritizing adequate payment arrangements ensures that sales translate into tangible revenue, maximizing the business’s financial health and sustainability.

Conclusion

There is no magic or universal formula for profitability because it varies in each business, environment, and place. However, the seven tips discussed here will help you determine the business areas you should analyze to take measures to produce the most profitability for your company.

These tips may sound like a lot to do, but these are some fundamental things that you may already be practicing. Focus on some things you are missing out on and change those minor tweaks that you believe need changes for faster-generating profit!

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Do you work from home? Organize your space for a productive home office and complete all your tasks promptly. Working from home can be a good option when you have the discipline. In many cases, temptations inside the house can prevent you from concentrating enough, and your work can become very unproductive.

Establish a space to work from home separately to increase productivity. If you do not choose an area at your home and define it as your workspace, chances are you’ll get disturbances at every other interval. So, design that place to allow you to work without distractions. You can achieve a creative and productive home office in a few steps, and here’s how.

Follow these seven tips to create a productive home office.

Choose a Background

Consider adding sounds or music that doesn’t distract you but keeps you focused while working from home. Whether you work from home daily or occasionally, a space assigned specifically to elevate productivity at home will help you in many ways. So, add music to your playlist and have a sound system that’ll motivate you while working.

Adequate Lights

A place too bright will not allow you to be comfortable, and if it is too dark, you will not be able to work efficiently. To have a productive home office, add subtle lights to your space. Choose the colors that uplift your mind and do not keep you sleeping.

Keep the Environment Relaxed

If the place is cold, think about investing in a heater or wearing clothes that keep you comfortable. On the other hand, if it is cold, put a fan in a strategic place or open the windows to avoid shivering while you work. The point of having a comfortable environment is for your relaxation. And, if you don’t like it, it is perfectly acceptable to have an atmosphere that works for you.

Additionally, a cool environment rejuvenates your mind. It keeps you motivated. So, if you live in an unusually hot place, consider investing in an air conditioner or an air-cooling system to avoid laziness and sweating while you work.

Apply the Psychology of Color

Colors affect our mood. For example, blues are associated with calm and quiet places. If you are a creative person and your job involves photography or art, choosing the right colors can help you in many ways.

And, even if your job is not related to colors and requires you to work on the computer 24/7, the right colors would add life to your work. So, choose the colors that work for your sight. Please put in the effort to research it and select a theme for your home office to increase your productivity at home.

Choose the Right Furniture

Choosing the right furniture can take your productivity to quite an extent. It will help you work proactively from the comfort of your house—the chairs you choose for the sofa set and the interior you design will impact your productivity.

Keep Some Plants

Now that we are on our toes and hardly ever get out of the house, adding plants to your space will help prevent fatigue, reduce stress, promote attention, and clean the air.

If you work from home, chances are you can’t spend time in nature. How about you invest in plants and enjoy the view while you work productively in your home office?

Conclusion 

In conclusion, creating a productive home office maximizes efficiency and focus while working from home. By following these tips to organize your space, including choosing a suitable background, optimizing lighting, maintaining a relaxed environment, incorporating the psychology of color, selecting ergonomic furniture, and adding some greenery with plants, you can create an environment conducive to productivity and well-being. Whether you work from home regularly or occasionally, investing time and effort into designing a functional and inspiring workspace can significantly enhance your work-from-home experience and overall productivity.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Are you having difficulty increasing your Facebook ad’s CTR (Click-through rate)? Uncertain about how to enhance it? Getting people to click on your Facebook advertisement may be very difficult. However, if you put the right ideas and techniques to the test, the results will begin to flow.

The click-through rate is a statistic used to assess the relevancy of your advertisements. Optimizing your creatives and targeting may help you improve click-through rates, lowering your cost per action.

We did not utilize impressions while dealing with email but rather the number of messages sent. The remainder of the CTR computation will stay unchanged.

For instance, if your advertising campaigns generate 1000 impressions and 23 click-throughs, your formula will be as follows:

CTR = 23 / 1,000 x by 100 is 2.3%

The more individuals click on the links in the email, the more effective it is.

When I mention 2% account CTR, there is a chance that individual campaigns will have a higher or lower CTR. For instance, the CTR for your branded and retail ads may surpass 2%, while others may fall below this mark. A high CTR does not necessarily indicate a successful campaign. This may indicate that your account decreases the probability of individuals spending money via advertising, meaning that your client is less interested in goods or services.

According to the study, the average CTR for Facebook Ads is less than 1%, indicating significant growth potential.

CTR stands for click-through rate and is a ratio of the number of clicks on your ad to the number of impressions. This statistic is computed as the number of links clicks divided by the number of images. Thus, if you get ten clicks on a video that receives one hundred impressions, your CTR is 10%.

Facebook’s average click-through rate is at 3%. It soared to 3.41 percent in June 2023 but predictably fell to 3 percent in the following months. This is unsurprising, given that everything went online in May and June 2023, and social media became the primary source of information. As a result, it’s only logical that the click-through rate was also affected.

Utilize Intriguing Visuals

Your Facebook ad should grab readers’ attention with the proper mix of text and graphics. Visuals create a good user experience, reflect your brand’s personality (e.g., friendly, inventive, fashionable, etc. ), and encourage visitors to click.

Some pointers for designing Facebook ad graphics include the following:

Avoid overcrowding pictures with text. Although Facebook eliminated word restrictions on advertisements, you do not want to overload your ad picture with text. According to Facebook, advertisements with less than 20% of the image covered by text perform better. Therefore, keep your text brief and concise.

Utilize the proper size ratios. Each Facebook ad type has its own set of technical specs and needs. Without adhering to these guidelines, your pictures may look fuzzy or low-quality. Always double-check picture requirements (and if in doubt, use our Facebook ad sizes guide sheet!).

GIFs and videos for testing purposes. Experiment with graphics like GIFs or video advertisements to see how people react. If a specific kind of ad performs better, invest more to boost your Facebook ad’s click-through rate.

Limit Your Audience

We’ve seen many Facebook advertising campaigns targeting millions of people, but this results in poor ad relevance and low click-through rates in most cases. If your audience is too broad, your message will often be very general in trying to appeal to everyone; at that point, it will be diluted and unlikely to have a strong appeal. Additionally, as your ads get more targeted, consumers are more likely to click on them, engage with them through comments, share them with friends and family, or click through to a sale. As a result, segmenting your audience is essential for improving your Facebook ad’s click-through rate.

Posting Schedule And Frequency

Thursday and Friday’s posts get an average of 3.5 percent more attention, while Monday to Wednesday posts receive 3.5 percent less. Timing is also critical. Some people suggest publishing between 9:00 and 19:00, but I believe this is an extensive timeframe. Posting begins at 1:00 p.m. and will likely get the most shares, while posts around 3 p.m. produce the most clicks.

Ascertain That Your Multimedia Content Is Visible

As stated before, the multimedia material you employ in your advertisements should be eye-catching. One method to do this is to avoid utilizing generic stock images. Choose more natural-looking picture advertisements. Otherwise, your Facebook Ad will be ignored by your target demographic. After all, people generally resist blatant ads that appear in their newsfeeds.

As an example, suppose you offer shoes with personalized artwork and design. Alternatively, you may utilize a picture of someone wearing one of your goods. Better still, have that person stroll through the streets to give your multimedia ad material a more natural appearance and feel.

Do you need more funds to employ a model for your business? Consider enlisting the assistance of your friends to model for you in return for a nominal fee.

Present An Attractive Offer

Knowing your target demographic and creating an appealing Facebook Ad is insufficient. Additionally, you must have an enticing offer. Your prospective consumers will want to know what they may get by clicking on your advertisement.

Your offer is what will entice them to click. And this will vary according to your advertising objective.

Therefore, if you want to attract new clients to your coffee shop, you may want to offer a discount to first-time visitors. Pair this with a pertinent call to action, such as “Get a Discount. “

This is likely to increase your Facebook ad’s click-through rate (CTR) since it plainly states what your audience may get by clicking your advertisements, not to mention that you made an enticing offer.

Conclusion

CTR for Facebook Ads is one of the most discussed performance metrics. The greater the CTR, the more effectively your advertisement performs (at least in capturing your audience’s attention and directing them to your offer and landing page.).

The guidelines and methodology outlined above were created to assist you in increasing engagement and click-through rates on your Facebook Ads. They will act as a springboard and guidance for you as you work to improve the success of your advertisements.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

In April 2021, a Nevada court found David Gilbert Saffron guilty of committing ‘cryptocurrency fraud and misappropriation.’ As part of the judgment, Saffron will have to pay back $32 million to all those he defrauded. Defraud may be one of the most severe cases of cryptocurrency fraud we’ve seen lately, but it’s far from the first and won’t be the last. 

As cryptocurrency trading rises in popularity across the digital world, so do scams and other cybercrime involving crypto. When cryptocurrency first rose to prominence on the internet, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) quickly warned against the various scams involved. 

Types of Cryptocurrency Scams

Several such scams are just modern takes on classic illegal schemes. For example, the CFTC warned traders about pump-and-dump schemes, where scammers would bulk buy a particular cryptocurrency while its value is low, then release false news about a rich celebrity or organization investing in it, thus increasing the price. They would sell back their stock when the price was high, netting a substantial profit. The currency would fall in value once people realized they had been scammed. 

Other scammers have posed as cryptocurrency trading outlets, inciting less informed traders to hand over their money, hoping to see profitable returns, but they never do. 

Giveaway scams have become very popular on social media platforms, namely Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Scammers will post fake videos and images from well-known corporations and celebrities, encouraging people to invest in cryptocurrency. These posts will feature hyperlinks leading to websites that look like authentic crypto-trading platforms but are designed to steal your cryptocurrency, bank information, and other personal data. 

Scammers may use data breaches on official platforms to obtain personal data and information about you. They’ll then use this data to extort money, or more recently cryptocurrency, out of victims.

Some scammers conduct employment scams. They post fake job postings online to gather personal data from applicants, which they then use to steal their cryptocurrency.  

Not all illegal activity surrounding cryptocurrency trading is as complex, however. Some more insidious hackers will hack into people’s virtual wallets and steal the cryptocurrency people have accumulated. 

According to The North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), cryptocurrency fraud is one of the significant threats to investors right now. 

Advice From the U.S Government

Stay informed

Scammers have been using the Covid-19 pandemic to take advantage of people. The government advises citizens to remain informed about cryptocurrency and the pandemic in general, as scammers can spread false information to commit fraud. 

If something is too good to be true, it probably is

This one might sound too pessimistic, but a bit of skepticism can go a long way in such uncertain times. Be wary of any service asking for personal information, and know who you’re sending money, gift cards, or cryptocurrency to before sending it. 

Don’t act immediately

Take all the time you need to assess your options and fully understand what kind of service you’re offering. A legitimate service would gladly assist and inform you if a service agent seems to be forcing your hand toward giving them your money and personal data. 

Advice from a Reputable Crypto-trading Platform

Since its launch in 2012, Coinbase has established itself as a leading name in the cryptocurrency industry, gaining the trust of both experienced and beginner traders.

 

To ensure a safe trading experience, Coinbase encourages users to be vigilant and protect their sensitive information. It’s important not to share any personal details with individuals claiming to be support staff or employees of a crypto platform, and never grant anyone remote access to your device.

 

Additionally, Coinbase emphasizes the importance of being cautious when approached by anyone asking you to send small amounts of cryptocurrency with the promise of receiving more in return. These types of offers are often scams, and it’s best to avoid them.

 

The platform also recommends maintaining a healthy skepticism toward investment offers that claim unreasonably high returns. If something sounds too good to be true, proceed with caution.

 

For those looking to invest in cryptocurrency, Coinbase advises thoroughly researching any platform before making a purchase. Engaging with company staff is beneficial, but seeking insights from experienced traders can provide valuable perspectives and enhance decision-making.

An Educated Buyer is a Happy Buyer

With the boom the crypto market is seeing right now, it’s no surprise how many people want to invest, but there will always be those looking to take advantage of buyers. Cryptocurrency can be an incredibly lucrative investment, but you must have an in-depth understanding of what you’re getting into. Don’t be frivolous with your money. Be patient, be informed, and hopefully, you’ll see positive returns in no time if all goes right.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Unlocking the Potential of ETF Investing for Your Portfolio

ETF investing means using exchange-traded funds—diversified baskets of securities that trade like stocks—to build wealth through a simple, low-cost, tax-efficient approach that puts professional-level portfolio management within reach of any investor. These investment vehicles bundle dozens or hundreds of stocks, bonds, or other assets into a single security you can buy or sell instantly, giving you immediate diversification without the complexity of picking individual investments.

I’ve spent over 20 years as CEO of Complete Controller helping business owners and families take control of their finances, and I’ve watched ETF investing transform overwhelmed investors into confident wealth builders. The global ETF industry just hit a record $18.81 trillion in assets, with 24 million Americans now using ETFs—including a surge of first-time investors who discovered they don’t need Wall Street connections or massive portfolios to invest like professionals. In this article, I’ll show you exactly how to harness ETFs the same way sophisticated investors do, starting with clear goals and ending with a repeatable system that works whether markets soar or stumble.

What is ETF investing and how do you make it work for your portfolio?

• ETF investing means using exchange-traded funds as core building blocks of a diversified, goal-aligned portfolio
• ETFs bundle many stocks, bonds, or other assets into a single, low-cost, easily traded security, providing instant diversification
• They trade throughout the day like stocks, allowing you to buy or sell and adjust exposure as markets move
• Their unique structure makes ETFs typically more tax-efficient and lower cost than comparable mutual funds, helping you keep more returns
• Effective ETF strategies start with clear goals and risk tolerance, then use a simple mix of core and satellite ETFs, reviewed and rebalanced regularly

ETF Investing Basics: What You’re Really Buying

Exchange-traded funds represent a fundamental shift in how people build wealth. Unlike buying individual stocks where you own shares in one company, an ETF gives you fractional ownership in an entire portfolio—sometimes hundreds or thousands of securities—through a single purchase. Think of it as buying a pre-made investment basket rather than filling your own basket one stock at a time.

How ETFs work: Structure, pricing, and liquidity

The mechanics behind ETFs create their unique advantages. Most ETFs track an index like the S&P 500, automatically holding the same stocks in the same proportions as that benchmark. This passive approach keeps costs low—the average index equity ETF charges just 0.14% annually compared to 0.40% for index mutual funds. When you buy an ETF, you’re purchasing it from another investor on the stock exchange at the current market price, which updates every second during trading hours.

This real-time pricing and exchange trading gives you control that mutual fund investors lack. You can use limit orders to specify your exact purchase price or set stop-loss orders to protect against declines. The creation and redemption mechanism—where large institutions can exchange ETF shares for the underlying securities—keeps ETF prices aligned with their holdings’ value and enables the tax efficiency that makes ETFs particularly attractive for taxable accounts.

ETF vs. Mutual fund vs. Individual stocks

Each investment type serves different needs. Individual stocks offer the highest potential returns but concentrate all your risk in single companies. Mutual funds provide professional management and diversification but only trade once daily after markets close, often with higher fees and tax bills. ETFs combine the best features: the diversification of mutual funds, the trading flexibility of stocks, and structural advantages that reduce both costs and taxes.

The numbers tell the story clearly. In 2024, only 7% of equity ETFs distributed taxable capital gains to shareholders, while 78% of mutual funds did. Over decades, this tax efficiency compounds into thousands of extra dollars in your pocket. Most ETFs also have no minimum investment beyond the price of one share, making them accessible whether you’re starting with $50 or $50,000.

Why ETF Investing Belongs at the Core of a Modern Portfolio

Modern investors face three major challenges: finding time to manage investments, controlling risk, and minimizing taxes. ETFs address all three with elegant efficiency. They transform portfolio construction from a complex puzzle into a straightforward process that even busy professionals can master.

Diversification made easy

Diversification once required buying dozens of individual securities and constantly rebalancing as prices changed. Today, a single ETF can spread your money across 500 large U.S. companies, 7,000 global stocks, or the entire bond market. This instant diversification dramatically reduces the impact of any single company’s problems on your wealth.

Historical data proves diversification’s power. Over 150 years, a balanced portfolio mixing 60% stocks and 40% bonds experienced about 45% less volatility during market crashes than an all-stock portfolio. During the Great Depression, stocks fell 79%, but a 60/40 portfolio declined just 52.6%. Even in 2022’s challenging market when both stocks and bonds dropped, the balanced approach limited losses better than either asset class alone.

Lower costs and better tax efficiency

Every dollar you save on fees compounds into future wealth. The difference between an ETF charging 0.14% and a mutual fund charging 0.40% might seem tiny, but over 30 years on a $100,000 investment, that gap grows to roughly $7,800 in additional wealth. Factor in the tax savings from ETFs’ efficient structure, and the advantage multiplies.

ETFs minimize taxes through their unique redemption process. When investors sell mutual fund shares, the fund must sell holdings to raise cash, potentially triggering taxable gains for all shareholders. ETFs sidestep this through “in-kind” redemptions where they exchange securities rather than selling them, avoiding taxable events. This structural advantage means more of your returns stay invested and compounding rather than going to the IRS.

Flexibility, transparency, and control

Unlike mutual funds that disclose holdings quarterly, most ETFs reveal their exact positions daily. You always know precisely what you own and can make informed decisions about overlapping holdings or sector concentrations. This transparency combines with real-time trading to give you unprecedented control over your investment timing and pricing.

The flexibility extends beyond basic buying and selling. You can use ETFs to quickly adjust your portfolio’s risk level, gain exposure to specific themes or sectors, or hedge against market declines. Professional investors use these same tools, and ETFs make them available to everyone without special accounts or qualifications.

Aligning ETF Investing With Your Goals and Risk Tolerance

Successful ETF investing starts with clarity about where you’re going and how much turbulence you can handle along the way. Without clear targets and risk boundaries, even the best ETFs become random bets rather than purposeful investments.

Step 1: Clarify your goals and time horizon

Your investment timeline shapes everything else. Money needed within five years belongs in conservative ETFs heavy in bonds and stable securities. Retirement funds with 20-year horizons can weather short-term storms in exchange for stock ETFs’ higher growth potential. College savings might start aggressive and gradually shift conservative as tuition bills approach.

Write down each financial goal with its timeline and dollar target. A business owner might list: emergency fund (immediate access needed), equipment purchase fund (2-year horizon), retirement (25-year horizon), and legacy wealth (indefinite). Each goal’s timeline determines its appropriate ETF mix—shorter deadlines mean more bonds and stability, longer horizons allow more stocks and growth potential.

Step 2: Define your risk profile

Risk tolerance combines emotional and financial factors. Can you watch your portfolio drop 30% without panic selling? Do you have stable income to ride out downturns? Your answers determine whether you belong in a conservative allocation (mostly bonds), balanced approach (mix of stocks and bonds), or aggressive strategy (primarily stocks).

Age provides a starting point—younger investors typically handle more risk—but personality and circumstances matter more. A 30-year-old entrepreneur with volatile business income might need a conservative portfolio, while a 60-year-old with guaranteed pension income could invest aggressively. Match your ETF allocation to your true risk capacity, not textbook recommendations.

Step 3: Choose a portfolio construction approach

Two main strategies dominate successful ETF investing. The core-and-satellite approach uses broad market ETFs as a stable foundation (perhaps 70-80% of holdings) with smaller positions in specialized ETFs for enhanced returns or specific exposures. Alternatively, target-date or balanced ETFs offer complete portfolios in a single fund, automatically adjusting risk as you age.

I typically recommend starting simple. A young professional might begin with just two ETFs: 80% in a total stock market fund and 20% in a bond index fund. As wealth and sophistication grow, they might add international stocks, real estate, or sector-specific satellites. The key is starting with a solid foundation you understand rather than chasing complexity.

Clarity beats guesswork. Explore Complete Controller.

Building an ETF Portfolio That Fits You (With Sample Allocations)

Theory becomes practical through specific examples. These model portfolios show how different investors might structure their ETF holdings based on common goals and risk profiles.

Model 1: Conservative ETF portfolio for capital preservation

This allocation suits retirees, risk-averse investors, or anyone needing funds within five years:

• 20% broad U.S. stock market ETF
• 30% international bond ETF
• 40% U.S. investment-grade bond ETF
• 10% real estate investment trust (REIT) ETF

This mix historically delivered modest growth with minimal volatility. The heavy bond allocation provides stability and income while the stock and REIT components offer inflation protection and mild growth potential. During market crashes, this portfolio typically declines far less than stock-heavy alternatives.

Model 2: Balanced ETF portfolio for growth and stability

Most long-term investors find balance here:

• 40% U.S. total market stock ETF
• 20% international developed market stock ETF
• 30% aggregate bond market ETF
• 10% emerging markets or REIT ETF

This classic allocation has proven resilient across various market conditions. The 60% stock allocation drives growth while 30% bonds provide stability and 10% alternatives add diversification. Historical data shows this mix capturing most of stocks’ long-term gains while dampening volatility by roughly one-third.

Model 3: Aggressive ETF portfolio for long-term growth

Young investors or those with high risk tolerance might choose:

• 40% U.S. total market stock ETF
• 25% international developed market stock ETF
• 15% emerging market stock ETF
• 10% small-cap stock ETF
• 10% aggregate bond ETF

This growth-focused allocation accepts higher volatility for potentially greater returns. The minimal bond position provides slight stabilization while the diverse stock holdings spread risk globally. Investors using this approach must stomach potential 40% temporary declines during bear markets while maintaining long-term perspective.

Turning ETF Investing Into a Repeatable System

One-time portfolio construction means nothing without disciplined maintenance. The most successful ETF investors create systems that remove emotion and ensure consistent execution regardless of market headlines.

Setting rules: Contributions, rebalancing, and “do nothing” discipline

Automate every possible decision. Set up monthly transfers from checking to investment accounts, then automatic ETF purchases maintaining your target allocation. Choose either calendar rebalancing (annually or semi-annually) or threshold rebalancing (when any position drifts 5-10% from target). Write these rules down and follow them mechanically.

The hardest rule might be doing nothing during market turmoil. When headlines scream disaster and your portfolio drops, your system should already dictate your response: rebalance if thresholds are hit, otherwise wait. Studies show investors who change strategies during downturns consistently underperform those who stick to their plans. Your written rules protect you from your emotions.

Where human expertise still matters

Even with ETFs’ simplicity, certain situations benefit from professional guidance. Complex tax situations like selling a business, concentrated stock positions from employer equity, or approaching retirement with multiple income sources often require expertise beyond basic ETF allocation. A qualified advisor can also help coordinate investment accounts with business structures and cash flow needs.

At Complete Controller, we see how proper financial systems multiply ETF strategies’ effectiveness. When your books are clean and cash flow is predictable, you can invest with confidence rather than keeping excessive emergency reserves. Professional guidance helps optimize not just your portfolio but your entire financial ecosystem.

Conclusion: How I Use ETF Portfolios to Help Clients Sleep at Night

After two decades helping businesses and families build wealth, I’ve learned that the best investment strategy is one you’ll actually follow. ETFs deliver institutional-quality diversification at retail prices while remaining simple enough for anyone to understand and implement. They’ve transformed investing from an exclusive club into an accessible tool for building lasting wealth.

The path forward is clear. Start by inventorying your current holdings and their costs—many investors discover they’re paying five to ten times more than necessary in fees. Sketch your target ETF allocation based on your goals and risk tolerance. Set up automatic contributions and rebalancing rules. Most importantly, begin now rather than waiting for perfect conditions.

If you’re ready to align your investments with your broader financial picture, visit Complete Controller to discover how we help entrepreneurs and professionals build integrated financial systems. Our team can review your current portfolio structure, coordinate it with your business cash flow and tax situation, and create an ETF-driven wealth plan you can maintain with confidence. The same discipline that makes your business successful can transform your personal wealth when applied through the right investment vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions About ETF Investing

Is ETF investing a good idea for beginners?

ETF investing offers an ideal starting point for beginners due to low costs, instant diversification, and simplicity. New investors can begin with a single broad market ETF rather than researching individual stocks, though they should avoid complex products like leveraged or inverse ETFs until gaining experience.

What is the minimum amount needed to start ETF investing?

You can start ETF investing with the price of one share—sometimes under $50. Many brokers now offer fractional shares, allowing investment with any dollar amount. The key is starting with regular contributions rather than waiting to accumulate a large initial sum.

Are ETFs safer than stocks?

ETFs reduce single-company risk through diversification but still face overall market risk. While one stock can lose 100% of its value, a broad market ETF spreads risk across hundreds or thousands of companies. However, ETFs can still decline significantly during market downturns.

How do I choose the right ETF for my portfolio?

Focus on ETFs matching your goals, tracking established indexes, with low expense ratios (under 0.20% for basic index funds) and high daily trading volume. Check the fund’s holdings, performance versus its index, and total assets to ensure stability and liquidity.

Can you lose all your money in an ETF?

Losing everything in a diversified ETF is virtually impossible since it would require every holding to become worthless simultaneously. However, specialized ETFs focusing on single sectors, leveraged strategies, or narrow themes carry higher risk and can suffer severe losses during adverse conditions.

Sources

• Armour, B. (2024). “How ETFs Help You Cut Your Tax Bill.” Morningstar. https://www.morningstar.com/funds/how-etfs-help-you-cut-your-tax-bill-2
• BlackRock. (2025, November 13). “BlackRock Survey Reveals Surge of First-Time ETF Investors, Driven by Equity and Digital Asset Demand.” Business Wire. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251113481395/en/
• Complete Controller. “ETF Investing for Small Business Owners.” https://www.completecontroller.com/self-employed-retirement-alternatives-to-increase-the-pension/
• Complete Controller. “ETF Investing for Retirement.” https://www.completecontroller.com/the-benefits-of-a-401k/
• Complete Controller. “How to Streamline Your Investment Portfolio.” https://www.completecontroller.com/how-to-streamline-your-investment-portfolio/
• ETFGI. (2025, October). “Global ETF Assets Reach Record High of US$18.81 Trillion at end September.” ETFGI Press Release. https://etfgi.com/news/press-releases/2025/10/global-etf-assets-reach-record-high-us1881-trillion-end-september
• Fidelity Investments. “ETF Versus Mutual Fund Fees.” Fidelity Learning Center. https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/investment-products/etf/etfs-cost-comparison
• Fidelity Investments. “How to Build a Portfolio with ETFs.” Fidelity Learning Center. https://www.fidelity.com
• Investment Company Institute. (2025, March). “Trends in the Expenses and Fees of Funds, 2024.” ICI Research Perspective, Vol. 31, No. 1. https://www.ici.org/files/2025/per31-01.pdf
• Morningstar. (2024). “The 60/40 Portfolio: A 150-Year Markets Stress Test.” Morningstar. https://www.morningstar.com/economy/6040-portfolio-150-year-markets-stress-test
• Morningstar. “The Best ETFs and How They Fit in Your Portfolio.” Morningstar. https://www.morningstar.com/articles/936570/the-best-etfs-and-how-they-fit-in-your-portfolio
• Motley Fool Asset Management. “Benefits of ETFs for Diversification.” FoolETFs.com. https://www.fooleefs.com
• Saxo Group. “How to Build a Diversified ETF Portfolio: A Comprehensive Guide.” Saxo Learn. https://www.saxogroup.com
• U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. “Introduction to Investing.” Investor.gov. https://www.investor.gov/introduction-investing/investing-basics/investment-products/exchange-traded-funds-etfs
• Vanguard. “Portfolio Diversification: What It Is and How It Works.” Vanguard Investor Resources. https://investor.vanguard.com/investing/portfolio-management/diversification
• Westwood Group. “Why ETFs Might Be an Ideal Fit for Your Investment Portfolio.” Westwood ETF Insight. https://www.westwood.com

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity. Reviewed By: Brittany McMillen

Brittany McMillen

Brittany McMillen is a seasoned Marketing Manager with a sharp eye for strategy and storytelling. With a background in digital marketing, brand development, and customer engagement, she brings a results-driven mindset to every project. Brittany specializes in crafting compelling content and optimizing user experiences that convert. When she’s not reviewing content, she’s exploring the latest marketing trends or championing small business success.

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Launch Your Food Processing Business Ventures Today!

A food processing business transforms raw ingredients into packaged food products for consumers, requiring careful planning, regulatory compliance, and strategic investment to achieve success in a competitive market. This venture involves converting agricultural products, meats, or other raw materials into finished goods through systematic production processes, quality control measures, and adherence to strict food safety standards.

As a founder who’s built Complete Controller from the ground up, I’ve witnessed countless entrepreneurs transform their culinary passions into thriving enterprises. Over 20 years as CEO, I’ve partnered with businesses across all sectors, learning what separates successful food processors from those who struggle. In this guide, I’ll share actionable strategies that work, regulatory insights that save money, and proven financial planning approaches that position your food venture for sustainable growth.

What is a food processing business—and how do you launch one successfully?

• A food processing business converts raw food materials into finished, packaged goods through organized production and quality control, operating under regulatory standards
• Success requires a comprehensive business plan, proper licensing, and a clear vision for your market niche
• Regulatory compliance is non-negotiable—health, safety, and labeling rules vary by location and product type
• Startup and operating costs depend on scale, facility, equipment, and process—accurate estimates are critical for funding
• Strategic marketing, branding, and robust quality assurance set strong operators apart from their competitors

The Food Processing Business Landscape: Trends & Opportunities

The food processing industry presents extraordinary opportunities for entrepreneurs willing to innovate and adapt. Current market dynamics favor small processors who can respond quickly to consumer demands and fill gaps that larger corporations overlook.

The global plant-based meat market exemplifies this potential, valued at $7.17 billion in 2023 and projected to reach $24.77 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 19.4%. Similarly, the gluten-free food market stands at $7.75 billion in 2024, expected to hit $13.67 billion by 2030 with a 10% CAGR. These specialty segments grow faster than traditional food categories, creating openings for nimble startups.

Organic food sales tell another compelling story. U.S. organic food sales reached $71.6 billion in 2024, growing at 5.2% annually—more than double the growth rate of the overall food marketplace at 2.5%. The narrowing price gap between organic and conventional products makes this market increasingly accessible to both producers and consumers.

Food manufacturing industry growth

Small-scale processors benefit from several emerging trends:

• Health-conscious consumers actively seek clean-label products with minimal processing
• Ethnic and regional specialties gain mainstream acceptance
• Direct-to-consumer models through farmers markets and online platforms reduce barriers to entry
• Local sourcing preferences create advantages for regional processors
• Subscription box services open new distribution channels for specialty items

Essential Steps to Start Your Food Processing Business

Launching a food processing business demands methodical preparation and attention to regulatory requirements. Each step builds upon the previous one, creating a solid foundation for operations.

Begin with market research to validate your product concept. Identify your target customers, analyze competitors, and determine your unique value proposition. This research forms the backbone of your business plan, which should detail your production processes, financial projections, marketing strategies, and growth trajectory.

Food business licensing

The licensing process varies by location and product type, but certain requirements remain universal:

• Register your business entity and obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Apply for state and local business licenses
• Secure food handler’s permits for all employees
• Complete food safety certification such as ServSafe or HACCP
• Obtain facility permits from health departments
• Register with the FDA if producing certain product categories

Networking with your local Small Business Development Center accelerates this process. These organizations provide guidance on regulatory requirements specific to your area and connect you with funding resources. They often host workshops covering food business basics, saving you time and preventing costly mistakes.

Calculating Startup Costs—Is a Food Processing Business Worth the Investment?

Understanding true startup costs separates dreamers from successful food entrepreneurs. Your initial investment varies dramatically based on scale, location, and production methods.

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream demonstrates that massive capital isn’t always necessary. The founders started in 2008 with $60,000 raised from friends and family. Unable to afford an $85,000 new truck, they purchased a 1988 postal truck for $2,500 and converted it for $40,000. They taught themselves ice cream recipes and drove six hours to produce batches at a small dairy farm. Today, the company operates 75+ stores across nine states with a $55 million valuation.

Food processing business cost breakdown

Realistic budget planning requires accounting for these categories:

Facility Costs:

• Shared commercial kitchen rental: $15-$30 per hour
• Dedicated facility lease: $2,000-$5,000 monthly
• Build-out and renovations: $10,000-$50,000

Equipment and Supplies:

• Basic processing equipment: $5,000-$15,000
• Refrigeration and storage: $3,000-$10,000
• Safety and sanitation systems: $2,000-$5,000
• Packaging equipment: $3,000-$8,000

Regulatory and Insurance:

• Licenses and permits: $500-$2,000
• General liability insurance: $500-$1,500 annually
• Product liability coverage: $1,000-$3,000 annually
• Workers’ compensation: varies by state and payroll

Operating Capital:

• Initial inventory: $800-$2,000
• Marketing and branding: $2,000-$5,000
• Three months operating expenses: $10,000-$25,000

Total startup estimates range from $35,000 for a basic operation to $150,000+ for a fully equipped facility. Always buffer your budget by 20-30% for unforeseen costs. Financial discipline during startup creates breathing room for growth.

Navigating Compliance: Regulatory & Food Safety Requirements

Food safety regulations protect consumers and your business reputation. A single contamination incident can destroy years of brand building, making compliance your top priority from day one.

Federal oversight depends on your product category. The USDA regulates meat, poultry, and egg products, while the FDA oversees most other foods. State and local health departments add additional layers of requirements, often more stringent than federal standards.

Food processing regulations

Critical compliance steps include:

• Developing a written food safety plan with hazard analysis
• Implementing Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
• Creating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all processes
• Establishing supplier verification programs
• Maintaining detailed production and distribution records
• Conducting regular internal audits

Document everything meticulously. When scaling operations, these records prove invaluable for demonstrating compliance history to retailers, insurers, and investors. Schedule quarterly compliance reviews to catch changes in regulations before they become violations.

Production, Sourcing & Operations: Building for Efficiency and Scale

Operational excellence determines whether your food processing business thrives or merely survives. Smart systems and supplier relationships create competitive advantages that compound over time.

Love Good Fats illustrates rapid scaling through strategic operations. Founder Suzie Yorke identified a market gap for keto-friendly snack bars in 2016. Rather than build her own facility, she partnered with co-packers for manufacturing. When her first production run required a $200,000 machine setup—far exceeding expectations—she raised $400,000 in angel investment. The initial 100,000 bars sold out in six weeks, validating the model. Through five funding rounds and strategic retail partnerships, the company reached $36 million in annual revenue within three years.

Food business inventory management

Efficient operations require:

• Vetted suppliers with backup options for critical ingredients
• Batch tracking systems from ingredient receipt through distribution
• Quality control checkpoints at each production stage
• Accurate demand forecasting to minimize waste
• Scalable processes that maintain quality during growth

Invest in inventory management software early. Manual tracking becomes impossible as you scale, and retrofitting systems disrupts operations. Modern cloud-based solutions integrate with accounting platforms like those offered by Complete Controller, streamlining financial reporting and regulatory compliance.

Branding, Marketing & Finding Your Customers

Your product quality matters, but your brand story sells. Today’s consumers buy experiences and values, not just food items.

According to USDA data, farmers markets represent a powerful launch platform, with 77% of farms with direct sales serving consumers directly. In 2020, direct-to-consumer food sales totaled $2.9 billion, with farmers markets accounting for $1.7 billion. Producers at farmers markets experience lower failure rates than wholesale-only operations, particularly benefiting women entrepreneurs and those under 35.

Food product marketing strategies

Build your brand through:

• Compelling origin stories that connect emotionally
• Transparent ingredient sourcing and production methods
• Professional packaging that stands out on shelves
• Consistent social media presence showcasing your process
• Customer testimonials and user-generated content
• Strategic sampling at markets and events

Start with farmers markets for immediate customer feedback and cash flow. Test flavors, refine packaging, and build loyal followers who become brand ambassadors. Graduate to retail partnerships once you’ve proven demand and perfected operations.

Your Roadmap: 90-Day Launch Plan for Your Food Processing Business

Success comes from executing systematically rather than scrambling reactively. This proven timeline keeps you focused on critical milestones.

Food business launch checklist

Days 1-30: Foundation

• Finalize your business plan with realistic financial projections
• Secure initial funding through savings, loans, or investors
• Register your business entity and obtain tax identification
• Research and visit potential production facilities
• Begin trademark and branding development
• Connect with industry mentors and advisors

Days 31-60: Preparation

• Sign facility lease or kitchen rental agreement
• Order essential equipment and schedule installation
• Complete food safety certifications
• Develop SOPs and training materials
• Source ingredients and packaging suppliers
• Finalize product recipes and conduct shelf-life testing

Days 61-90: Launch

• Produce initial inventory batches
• Photograph products for marketing materials
• Launch website and social media presence
• Begin farmers market sales or local distribution
• Gather customer feedback and iterate quickly
• Track all financial metrics and adjust pricing as needed

Conclusion

Launching a food processing business combines culinary creativity with business discipline. Success requires more than great recipes—it demands regulatory compliance, financial planning, and operational excellence. The market opportunities are real, as demonstrated by the explosive growth in specialty categories and the success stories of bootstrapped brands scaling to millions in revenue.

Your next step starts today. Whether you’re perfecting recipes, researching regulations, or crunching numbers, each action moves you closer to launch. Let Complete Controller handle your back-office complexities—from bookkeeping to compliance tracking—so you can focus on creating products customers love. Visit Complete Controller to discover how our expert team supports food entrepreneurs like you in building sustainable, profitable businesses.

Frequently Asked Questions About Food Processing Business

What is a food processing business?

A food processing business transforms raw ingredients into finished food products through organized operations, quality control measures, and regulatory compliance. This includes everything from baking and canning to freeze-drying and packaging specialty foods.

How much does it cost to start a food processing business?

Startup costs typically range from $35,000 for a basic operation using shared kitchen space to over $150,000 for a dedicated facility with specialized equipment. Costs vary based on your production scale, facility type, and product complexity.

What licenses and permits are needed?

You’ll need state and local business licenses, health department permits, food handler certifications, and potentially FDA or USDA registrations depending on your products. Requirements vary significantly by location and food type.

What are common mistakes new founders make?

The biggest mistakes include underestimating startup costs by 30-50%, rushing to market without proper food safety protocols, neglecting to validate product demand before scaling, and failing to maintain adequate cash reserves for slow sales periods.

How do I scale my food processing business?

Scale through systematic steps: automate repetitive processes, implement robust inventory management, develop strong supplier relationships, consider co-packing partnerships, and expand distribution channels gradually while maintaining quality standards and positive cash flow.

Sources

• Bls.gov. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Food Manufacturing Industry Growth.” https://www.bls.gov/iag/tgs/iag311.htm
• Cart-King. (2025). “Food Cart Startup Costs: Complete Breakdown for 2025.” https://www.cart-king.com/blog/food-cart-startup-costs
• Colorado Department of Agriculture. “Checklist for Start-Up Food Processors.” https://ag.colorado.gov/
• Craftybase. “Small Food Venture: Strategies for Success.” https://www.craftybase.com/
• CPG Guy. “Food Business Startup Costs: Real-World Budget to Launch Your Food Business.” https://www.cpgguy.com/
• EHL Hospitality Insights. “How to Start Your Food Business: An 8-Step Guide to Success.” https://hospitalityinsights.ehl.edu/
• Farmers Market Coalition. (2022). “Farmers Market Facts & Figures 2022.” https://farmersmarketcoalition.org/
• FDA. “How to Start a Food Business.” https://www.fda.gov/food/food-entrepreneurs/start-food-business
• FDA. “HACCP Principles & Application Guidelines.” https://www.fda.gov/food/hazard-analysis-critical-control-point-haccp/haccp-principles-application-guidelines
• Grand View Research. (2024). “Gluten-free Products Market Size, Industry Report, 2030.” https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/gluten-free-products-market
• Grand View Research. (2024). “Plant-based Meat Market Size, Share & Growth Report, 2030.” https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/plant-based-meat-market
• Katana MRP. “Food Manufacturing: The Complete Guide (2024).” https://www.katanamrp.com/
• Kladana. “How to Start a Food Processing Business.” https://kladana.com/
• Kouzina Foodtech. “How to Start a Profitable Food Processing Business from Home.” https://kouzinafoodtech.com/
• Love Good Fats. “Media.” https://lovegoodfats.com/pages/media
• Organic Trade Association. (2025). “2025 Organic Market Report.” https://ota.com/OrganicMarketReport
• Serif.ai. “How to Start a Food Manufacturing Business [2025 Guide].” https://www.serif.ai/
• Skidmore College. (2024). “On Entrepreneurship and Ice Cream.” https://www.skidmore.edu/news/2024/1107-van-leeuwen.php
• Starter Story. (2025). “Love Good Fats ($36M/year).” https://www.starterstory.com/ideas/food-product/success-stories
• Tufts Nutrition. “Starting a Value Added Food Business.” https://nutrition.tufts.edu/
• UC Davis Food Safety. “Starting a Food Business.” https://foodsafety.ucdavis.edu/
• UMASS. “Copy of Food Product Estimated Start Up Expenses.” https://umass.edu/
• UMASS. “Introduction to Starting a Small Food Business for Food Entrepreneurs.” https://umass.edu/
• U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). (2021). “Direct Farm Sales of Food.” https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/Highlights/2022/local-foods.pdf
• Van Leeuwen Ice Cream. “Our Story.” https://vanleeuwenicecream.com/our-story/
• Women of Influence. (2021). “How the Founder of Love Good Fats Went Beyond Bootstrapping to Fund Her Business.” https://www.womenofinfluence.ca/2021/04/22/how-the-founder-of-love-good-fats-went-beyond-bootstrapping-to-fund-her-business/

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity. Reviewed By: Brittany McMillen

Brittany McMillen

Brittany McMillen is a seasoned Marketing Manager with a sharp eye for strategy and storytelling. With a background in digital marketing, brand development, and customer engagement, she brings a results-driven mindset to every project. Brittany specializes in crafting compelling content and optimizing user experiences that convert. When she’s not reviewing content, she’s exploring the latest marketing trends or championing small business success.

See Full Bio

With time, social media has taken its toll on almost everything a person does today. The rise of social media has been so inspirational that it has caused people to switch their businesses to online stores. Nowadays, having an occurrence on social media has become everyone’s necessity instead of a choice. Undoubtedly, social media provides an excellent ground for online businesses and is also a valuable tool for an HR professional. Over time, more HR professionals have begun to use social media to connect and find new talent for different positions and purposes.

HR professionals can utilize social media in multiple ways, some of which are below.

Acquiring New Talent

By correctly utilizing the power of the platforms provided by social media, HR professionals can quickly enter a large pool of applicants. Social media platforms will allow HR professionals to post job vacancies on company pages or even on different public groups. It will also help in spreading the word about the new job position. Social media also allow HR people to view candidate profiles and their random activities before calling them. Social media will let a recruiter know candidates and their views regarding their personal and professional lives.

Employer Branding

With the help of social media, human resource personnel can utilize present and past employees as brand ambassadors. It can also use social media for promotional purposes regarding a brand, such as creating social media groups to share the company’s best accomplishments and undertakings. It can also use these platforms to post promotional images, videos of the company events, company culture, success stories, etc. 

Employee Engagement

Social media has fantastic potential for keeping people engaged; HR professionals can use a social media platform to create in-hour forums that employees can use to communicate, share ideas, and collaborate. It can also use such discussions to express concerns and give logical suggestions regarding the improvement of the organization.

Through such random suggestions and conversations, HR professionals can better understand their employees‘ issues and address them adequately. HR personnel can also take advice from employees regarding company policies and improve them accordingly. Such activities allow employees to participate and discuss company policies, making them feel more responsible for the outcomes.

Productivity Enhancement

Human resource professionals can also utilize social media by asking senior and experienced employees to write company forums about their careers and work. They can use these HR blogs to post company policies, announcements, promotional events, appreciation programs, etc.

Employee Communication

Another handy use of social media, especially for big international firms, is that it will allow employees to communicate better with each other across the globe. Sharing videos and images on social platforms will help employees better display their motto rather than exchanging emails like old times.

Monitoring Employees’ Activities

HR professionals can also use these social media platforms to monitor employee activities. Using Twitter will allow HR people to see the employee messages they are posting, and following them on Facebook and LinkedIn will allow them to monitor their daily activities. However, to properly implement this, a robust social media policy must be a form that is entirely relevant and up to date based on that company’s policies. Also, any debating or controversial conversations need to be avoided at all costs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, social media’s pervasive influence has transformed not only personal interactions but also professional landscapes, particularly in the realm of human resources (HR). As businesses increasingly shift online, social media platforms have become indispensable tools for HR professionals seeking to recruit talent, enhance employer branding, engage employees, facilitate communication, boost productivity, and monitor activities. 

By harnessing the power of platforms, HR professionals can tap into vast pools of potential candidates, effectively showcase company culture, and foster a sense of community among employees. Social media not only streamline recruitment processes but also serve as vehicles for promoting organizational achievements and facilitating open dialogue between employees and management. 

Moreover, monitoring employee activities through social media enables HR professionals to maintain awareness of their workforce’s online presence while ensuring compliance with company policies and regulations. However, it’s essential to implement robust social media policies that balance monitoring with privacy rights and ethical considerations. In essence, social media offers HR professionals a multifaceted toolkit for fostering a dynamic and thriving organizational culture in the digital age.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

In several countries, it is widespread practice for the most dependable companies to offer pension plans for their employees. This is a significant benefit that contributes to increasing our heritage, but few take advantage of it correctly.

What are the Pension Plans?

Given the low replacement rates in different countries, pension plans are often offered to complement social security.

The replacement rate is the proportion you will receive from your last salary as a pension. For example, when you say that the replacement rate is 40%, it means that you will receive 40% of what you earned before your retirement when you get your retirement.

For example, the replacement rate will be less than 35% for medium and high wages. This will not be enough for many people to survive, so it becomes essential to complement it with other types of savings, such as companies’ pension plans or personal retirement plans with a fiscal stimulus.

How do Company Plans Work?

Of course, there are many different pension plans. Still, companies generally supplement the employees’ savings up to a certain percentage of their salary.

The employee chooses what percentage of his salary he wants to save, and the company contributes an equal share (up to a limit that is usually between 4 and 5% of the salary, although sometimes it depends on the person’s salary level).

Therefore, by participating in these plans, we automatically get free money contributed by the company, which we would not otherwise see. We can only obtain it if we save.

For example, suppose we save 5% of our salary each month, and the company puts another 5%. In that case, this becomes 10% of our salary, which can grow significantly since, in many cases, the returns generated for such plans are exempt from taxes. Also, the company’s amount is not considered a cumulative income for employees. In other words, it is received free of charge (although at the time of retirement, the company’s contributions plus their income may be subject to taxes).

Difference Between Pension and Private Pensions

The core difference between pensions and private ones is the employer. The federal, government, national, and local representatives get private pensions. Police officers, firefighters, and schoolteachers may have pensions. Even private companies are still offering pensions to their retired employees. Multiple timeless companies have been providing pensions since the last century. Yet, most of them have frozen their pension policies. That is why new employees cannot get this opportunity.

Private pensions are more legitimately protected than public ones. According to the law, private pension funds must have adequate funding. The government pays the Corporation of Pension Benefit Guaranty premiums to ensure their pension funds. For public pensions, you do not need such requirements. This absence of legitimate protection prevents the government from assisting all their retired officers. Ultimately, there will be a drastic change in the sector’s benefits if governments do not act.

Risks of a Pension Plan

You are wrong if you think retirement plans or pension policies work without risks. You cannot say anything about the company’s pension fund investment. You acquire insufficient funds due to bad investment decisions. As a result, the benefits will be reduced without any warning. Usually, there is no command of the company’s control while finalizing the terms and conditions for the pension plan. And it is one of the examples of risks as well. Also, it can decrease the percentage of salary for each employee. It would be the employer’s choice to reduce or enhance the employee’s pension amount than alternatives.

In public pensions, the risk is that the country will have to face different economic issues and announce bankruptcy. Then, it will reduce all the rewards for candidates’ pension plans. So, you can save that money monthly as an alternative to your pension to get protected from all the risks. You wish to have a comfortable retirement without facing a shortage of funds.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Car insurance is not merely a legal obligation; it’s a shield that protects vehicle owners and passengers from the financial fallout of unforeseen accidents. It’s a safety net beyond vehicle repairs, encompassing medical bills, personal liabilities, and peace of mind.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the multifaceted protection provided by comprehensive car insurance, emphasizing its crucial role in safeguarding all passengers, covering repairs regardless of the driver, mitigating repair costs, and offering personal coverage in unforeseen circumstances. Understanding the depth of coverage provided by car insurance is prudent and essential in confidently navigating the uncertainties of the road. 

Here are five essentials for car insurance coverage.

Caring Coverage: Ensuring Protection for Every Passenger

Comprehensive car insurance extends protection to all passengers aboard. In the event of an accident, it offers reassurance by alleviating the burden of hefty medical bills. Regardless of who sustains injuries, the policy covers medical expenses, allowing the injured parties to concentrate on their recovery journey.

Superior car insurance encompasses every aspect of medical care, from surgical procedures to rehabilitation, ensuring thorough support throughout recovery. From doctor consultations to hospital stays and rehabilitation sessions, this coverage provides peace of mind to all occupants, particularly the vehicle owner, knowing that everyone is safeguarded in case of an unfortunate incident.

Protection Beyond the Driver

Most reputable car insurance policies extend coverage to any driver operating the vehicle. This provision proves invaluable, particularly when entrusting your car to a friend or family member who might encounter an accident.

With all drivers insured under your policy, you can confidently lend your car, knowing that any potential mishaps won’t result in financial devastation. Insurance, inherently, is designed to provide peace of mind. However, this reassurance is incredibly comforting when someone else is behind the wheel.

Eases the Burden of Repair Expenses

Repair costs following an accident can skyrocket, depending on the severity and type of vehicle involved. If you’re found at fault, you’re responsible for your vehicle’s repairs and potentially for the other drivers. Thankfully, with car insurance, the worry of shouldering these financial burdens fades away as your insurance company takes care of everything for you.

Furthermore, coverage extends to single-car accidents, such as collisions with trees or encounters with wildlife like deer. In these instances, where only your vehicle is damaged, having insurance coverage ensures that all repair expenses are promptly addressed, regardless of whether the damage involves multiple vehicles, solitary incidents, or acts of nature.

Providing Essential Protection

In an ideal scenario, accidents would be rare, and both drivers involved would seamlessly handle their costs. Regrettably, reality often paints a different picture, where only one driver is covered or found at fault. However, with comprehensive insurance coverage, you’re shielded from these uncertainties.

Whether the other driver lacks sufficient coverage or is entirely uninsured, you’ll find solace knowing that your full coverage insurance covers you in any situation. Regardless of the extent of their coverage, your peace of mind remains intact, safeguarded by your insurance provisions.

Comprehensive Personal Protection

Accidents are unpredictable; despite our best efforts, some events remain beyond our control. That’s why insurance policies are designed to offer coverage for the vehicle owner and all drivers involved. In the unfortunate event of an injury, even one resulting in long-term disability, the insurance company provides a predetermined settlement amount to alleviate any financial strain on the car owner.

Personal coverage extends beyond the individual car owner. It serves as a safety net for personal liability, ensuring that your insurance steps in to cover the costs if you’re deemed responsible for an accident. Additionally, this coverage safeguards you and your vehicle in cases where the other driver is at fault but lacks proper car insurance.

Conclusion

While adhering to the minimum liability insurance mandated by states is essential, your approach to car insurance should transcend mere compliance with the law. The aftermath of a car accident can be profoundly impactful and may reshape lives in unforeseen ways. Therefore, it’s imperative to carefully evaluate various factors, including your vehicle’s value, potential risks, and desire for peace of mind while on the road.

By investing in comprehensive car insurance that extends beyond legal requirements, you protect yourself financially and equip yourself with the assurance needed to navigate the uncertainties of driving with greater confidence and security.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.