It is always exciting to write about entrepreneurial success stories; the rags to riches tales that truly inspire. However, what I have learned from 26 years of business journalism is that the road to success is more difficult than one imagines. Behind the overnight successes are the years of hard work: the planning, the failures, the quest for financing, and perhaps more importantly, the realization that one can’t do everything by himself or herself.

With that in mind – because everyone is in need of assistance at one time or another – this magazine proudly presents its readers, the majority of whom are small business owners, with our annual Small Business Guide.

Beginning with an introduction on page 24, we offer articles focusing on small business needs and how entrepreneurs and existing small business owners can prepare themselves for the long road ahead of them. Our first two stories, written by Assistant Editor Anthony Bucci, focus on obtaining business financing (page 26) and marketing assistance (page 30). These are followed by Managing Editor George Saliba’s stories on minority-owned businesses (page 34) and obtaining healthcare insurance (page 40). Contributing Writer Linda Stein continues the series with a story on franchising assistance (page 46) and locating a franchise (page 50).

We then dedicate our quarterly Trade-Talk Industry Roundtable to the organizations that “Deliver Help to Small Businesses,” as this feature, which begins on page 53, is titled. Leaders from the US Small Business Administration, the New Jersey Small Business Development Centers, the New Jersey Business Incubation Network, SCORE, the UCEDC and our own New Jersey Business & Industry Association, discuss the work they are doing – and the challenges they are facing – in helping small businesses succeed.

Meanwhile, three articles in this issue focus on manufacturing in New Jersey. On page 63, Contributing Writer Lorna Pappas discusses the challenges and successes manufacturers face and how related trade associations are helping the industry. On page 68, Contributing Writer Eric Peterson delves into the significant power needs of manufacturers and how suppliers are helping them keep costs in check. Finally, on page 74, a report by NJPRO reveals how the manufacturing sector continues to play a vital role in the state’s economy.

We hope you enjoy these and other stories in this issue. NJB