(ARA) - Starting or building a business isn't easy, but it shouldn't cost a lot of money, either. Here are some tips to get your business off the ground - or make it stronger - without breaking the bank:

* Spread the word. If you make a product or perform a service, donate it to a local charity auction or non-profit organization to spread the word about your business. Include the local media on that to-be-contacted list and list your name as a resource for articles relating to the business community. If you can get your business name in the community in a positive light - sponsoring an activity or discussing street improvements near your business, for example - it will help promote your business for free.

* Try non-traditional solutions for paper goods. Business cards, stationery and promotional items are something you can print online. Digital printing looks, to the naked eye, like the same quality as offset printing, but costs around half as much. A printing company like 123print.com will print everything to your customized specifications. Having online business cards and stationery for yourself and your employees printed and ready for your business use is key for marketing what you do.

* Work with non-competing businesses to help market your business. For example, if you sell cleaning products, consider contacting a local home cleaning service company and offer your products for free or at a reduced price. But ask that company to mention your products in its promotional fliers and on its Web site.

* If you're starting a new business, look for used equipment to keep costs down. Consider shopping bankruptcy or government auctions for desks and chairs. And don't buy equipment you're not going to use. For example, do you really need a fancy printer that scans high-quality images if your business is accounting?

* Streamline your services to cut costs. If you have an office space, set a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperatures when the office is closed. Invest in fluorescent and energy-saving lights. Purchase only the supplies you need, and only when you need them. Consider using e-mail or the fax machine, rather than spending money on postage or shipping.

The best advice though, is to pay attention to the details of your business. Look at your costs, look at your expenditures and don't spend any money you don't need to spend. When you combine smart money management with great business cards and good promotional skills, your business has an excellent chance of succeeding.

Courtesy of ARAcontent