Most budgeting experts will tell you that re-evaluating your overall expenses and cutting each by just a bit will actually gain you more ground than doing without something major that you really need. Here are a few ideas of areas to look at and costs to reduce that can have a major impact on your overall profits.

1) Internet Access - Every online business owner must have access to Web. But consider this. The market is so flooded with ISPs that you have a lot of room to dicker. Start by searching Internet under keywords like "cheap internet access" or "discount isp" to bring up lists of possibilities. Then, do one of two things.

(a) Try some of these independent ISPs. Smaller companies can have high quality service and support just like "big boys". One business owner I know recently switched from Prodigy ($21.95/mth) to a smaller ISP that only charges $12.50/mth with no contracts. She actually liked new provider better and it costs her about half as much. [Savings of $113.40 per year.]

(b) Renegotiate with your existing ISP. Most larger ISPs know you have a choice of a thousand other companies. Because of this, they are normally more than willing to renegotiate your costs. Be honest. Tell them you are a small business owner and you need to cut expenses. Explain that you've been pleased with their service but will be forced to go with someone else if some sort of arrangement isn't worked out. Another friend of mine did this and received 6 months free! Most will offer 2-3 months free and/or a discount with an annual agreement. NOTE: When you approach your ISP, be fully prepared to switch to someone else if your offer is rejected. [Savings of $105.80 per year with 3 months free and reduced, annual rate.]

---- Make A Wish List

The first step in creating a network that works is making a list of what you want. Go ahead, think of perfect situation where you would have anything you needed at your fingertips. For example, if you have a Web design business you might find it very helpful to create associations with people who offer services that compliment yours. Why? Because if these people are heavily involved with process of getting a Web-based business up and going, they could send you many leads and that could turn into paying clients.

What else might you want? Perhaps free advertising or publicity to bring more business your way? Sure! Write it down on wish list.

---- Making Wishes Come True

Now, next step is to find resources you need in order to make those wishes realities. It's not as difficult as it sounds. Just expand on your wish list a bit in following way.

We mentioned needing associations with service providers that compliment our example of Web design. So write down companies that provide: Web hosting, merchant accounts, shopping carts, autoresponders, Internet checks, copywriting, graphic design and scripting/programming.

We also said we needed some advertising or publicity. So add to list following: ezine ad swaps, banner ad swaps, local newspapers, local TV and radio stations, Chambers of Commerce.