Start your business Archives

Animal lover turns her passion into a grooming business

December 21st, 2023

DUBUQUE, Iowa—Natalie Hazewinkel will pull her car over to help a bird struggling on the side of a road. She won’t hesitate to bring stray cats to her local humane society. Once, she even helped a raccoon. “I have a…

What you need to know about new reporting requirements for your business

December 13th, 2023

Starting Jan. 1, 2024, many companies will be required to report information to the U.S. government about who ultimately owns and controls them. Here’s why: In 2021, the U.S. government enacted the Corporate Transparency Act. It was designed to combat…

Couple using food truck to pay it forward

September 14th, 2022

Making good on a longtime dream, these Dupaco members opened a food truck. And now they’re using their small business to help others.

Dupaco members Jennifer Richardson and Dusty Staley, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, count on their credit union as a partner in life’s moments—whether it’s buying a new vehicle or finding a way to support new dreams. (B. Kaplan photo)

Credit union helps couple reach their dreams

September 14th, 2022

These Dupaco members—and lifelong dreamers—count on their financial cooperative when they need a little help seeing their dreams through.

The Midwest Girl: Dupaco believes in us

September 14th, 2022

The Midwest Girl owners are proud of their roots. Through their business, they've learned how much others love calling the Midwest home too.

Dupaco member Monté Autry, owner of Autry’s Veterans BBQ and Catering Service, visits with Dupaco’s John Heavens

Dupaco gives caterer chance to pursue dream

September 14th, 2022

Monté Autry caught the cooking bug early and dreamed of preparing meals for others. Dupaco believed in his dream to become a caterer.

Dupaco helps member open unique yoga and cycling studio in Dubuque

September 14th, 2022

Dupaco Community Credit Union member Ashley Ayala reflects on her journey of opening Soul Revolution Yoga + Cycling Studio in Dubuque, Iowa.

Providing more than financial support in a jumbled world

September 14th, 2022

Jumble Coffee Company was built from the ground up. The owners say that wouldn't have happened without the support of their credit union.

When’s the best time to write a business plan?

September 14th, 2022

At its core, a business plan is a road map for your project. But when’s the best to write a business plan? It depends. And here’s why.

4 tips to help you consider how to finance your business

September 14th, 2022

Are you thinking about starting a business? Consider these tips to help you finance your business and become a more confident entrepreneur.

Learn how budgeting and cash flow forecasting can help your business

June 17th, 2022

No business owner knows exactly what the future holds. But budgeting and cash flow forecasting can reduce your level of uncertainty.

6 smart ways to raise capital for your small business

June 17th, 2022

Once you know how much funding you need to start your business, it’s time to decide how you’ll raise capital. Explore these six ideas.