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Our Perspective
Insights and resources to help you navigate the complexities of your business.
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Crowdsourcing Equity: Angels vs. Crowdfunding vs. VC
Scaling your business is thrilling, but navigating funding options can feel like a maze. Whether it’s angel investors, crowdfunding, or venture capital, we’re breaking down the pros, cons, and paths to success. Let Balanced Business Group guide your funding journey.
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What Are Slotting Fees and How to Offset Their Impact on Cash Flow?
Slotting fees can feel like a major hurdle for emerging CPG brands entering retail. Learn what they are, how they impact cash flow, and practical strategies to handle them without stalling your growth.
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How Trade Spend Affects Cash Flow for Emerging CPG Brands
Understanding the cash flow challenges of trade spend is crucial for emerging CPG brands. Learn how to align promotional spending with seasonal demand, manage payment delays, and forecast costs effectively to sustain growth and prevent financial strain.
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How Much Money Can You Borrow From Lenders?
Unlock insights on how much money your brand can borrow from lenders, including key factors like revenue milestones, collateral, and credit history. Learn to prepare a strong loan application, compare lending options, and align financing with business goals.
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The 5 Most Important KPIs for Emerging CPG Brands
Emerging CPG brands thrive when they focus on the right metrics. Discover the 5 most critical KPIs for monitoring growth, staying profitable, and making data-driven decisions. From gross margin to the cash conversion cycle, these insights will power your brand’s success.
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How to Negotiate With Lenders: Tips From a Pro
Discover how to confidently negotiate loans and secure better terms for your business. Learn practical strategies to prepare, understand lender priorities, and build lasting relationships for funding success.
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5 Best Practices for Filing California Sales Tax as a Winery
California sales tax for wineries can be complex, but with the right tools and strategies, compliance becomes more manageable. In this post, I share five tried-and-true best practices to simplify the process, minimize risks, and let you focus on creating exceptional wines.
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Breaking Down Salary Trends in Food and Non-Alc Bev: Insights for Founders
The right compensation structures are critical to long-term success, especially in the non-alcoholic food and beverage industry. Explore how salary trends and tools like the Force Brands Salary Report can help you create winning compensation strategies tailored to your company's size and goals.
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Top 5 Lessons for Building Secure AP Processes
Effectively managing accounts payable (AP) can make or break a business — especially in the fast-paced world of consumer packaged goods (CPG). Learn the top five lessons for building secure AP processes that safeguard your cash flow and prevent costly mistakes, with practical insights and tools like Bill.com.
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Why Regenerative CPG Brands Need Smarter Financial Strategies
Regenerative CPG brands are redefining sustainability but face financial hurdles to scale effectively. This post explores how smarter financial strategies, like budgeting, forecasting, and aligned lending practices, empower these brands to balance profitability with their mission.
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How to Talk About Financials in Your Pitch Deck
Financials are the backbone of your pitch deck. They bridge your brand's story and investors' confidence. Learn how to present metrics like revenue projections, gross margin, and cash runway in a way that transforms investor curiosity into commitment.
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Smart Payment Solutions for Wineries: Navigating Cross-Border Transactions With Ease
Simplify cross-border transactions for your winery. Discover smart payment solutions that lower FX fees, manage currency risks, and integrate seamlessly with your operations.
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How Do I Legally Sell My Bev Alc Products Online and Across State Lines?
Selling spirits and RTD cocktails online and across state lines opens up huge opportunities but comes with strict regulations. Learn how to navigate DTC alcohol shipping compliance, avoid penalties, and leverage platforms like Big Thirst and LibDib to grow your brand safely and legally.
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How to Comply With CalSavers: Employer Options & Recommendations
Learn how to comply with California's CalSavers mandate. Explore employer options, including CalSavers and Guideline, and get tips for selecting the best retirement plan for your business.
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How to Build a Stores & Doors Sales Model
Maximize retail success with a Stores & Doors sales model. Learn how to track performance, set growth targets, and align sales with operations for sustainable CPG brand growth.
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File Your Beneficial Ownership Form
Navigate the new beneficial ownership filing requirements with ease. Learn what beneficial ownership means, why it matters, and the steps to file your form before the January 1, 2025, deadline.
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Choosing the Right Beverage Alcohol Compliance Provider
Navigating the intricate world of beverage alcohol regulations can be overwhelming, but the right compliance provider transforms it into a smooth process. Learn how to select a partner who will protect and elevate your winery's operations.
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Should Your Winery Lease or Buy Barrels?
Should your winery lease or buy barrels? Explore the financial and operational implications of each option, and find the best strategy for your wine production goals.
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Budget Tips from CPG Finance Pros
Master budgeting for your CPG brand with insights from seasoned finance pros. Learn to build realistic forecasts, manage cash flow, and plan for growth effectively.
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How to Manage Cash When Funds Are Short
When cash is tight, managing cash flow effectively is critical. Learn actionable strategies to assess your finances, reduce costs, and explore creative financing options to keep your business afloat and resilient.