

AUDIO BITES Why I decided to start my own business



Real estate broker

Founder, Playboy Enterprises

Founder, Mrs. Fields Cookies

Founder, Papa John’s Pizza REAL PEOPLE; REAL CHALLENGES Starting a small business is a life’s goal for many

Have you always dreamed of owning your own business? More people start small businesses during tough economic times than at any other time. Find out what new small business owners say and how they’re doing.

FULL STORY: Recession, layoffs fuel many to start small businesses

PROS AND CONS: What kind of small business do you want to start

Would you like to be part of our USA TODAY/Gannett

Small Business Challenge?

Are you thinking about starting a small business? If you're interested in being considered for the challenge, please complete the following short survey. More information will be provided over the next few weeks about the Small Business Challenge and selection of 5 entrepreneurs whose progress will be followed over six months in 2010 to see how they do. The 5 entrepreneurs will have a series of business "challenges" to meet each month and will be featured in stories, photos and videos at usatoday.com and in USA TODAY, so you must be willing to have your name and photograph appear. By completing the survey you agree that USA TODAY can share your personal information with USA TODAY and local Gannett television stations and newspapers. If so, take the survey.