• Age: 14
• Grade: 9

Statistics show that 90% of businesses fail within their first five years of operation. What is the story behind these intimidating odds? Every year, unsuspecting entrepreneurs show up at their banks asking for small-business loans. The problem is that far too many people go into business without doing thorough research into what it really takes to be successful. The best way to learn is to learn from someone who has worked with hundreds of small businesses. In this new book, small-business accountant and author David Trahair lays out in plain language everything that no one else tells you about starting a business. Trahair stresses that it's important for most people to start their business first as a side job. The owner should market and develop the business until it becomes strong enough to survive those crucial first years, and profitable enough to provide an income for the owners. Trahair also offers excellent tips on what the major franchisors will never tell you.

David Trahair is a Chartered Accountant, speaker and author of five books on personal financial issues. Two of his books are National Bestsellers – the one you are holding and Enough Bull: How to Retire Well Without the Stock Market, Mutual Funds or Even an Investment Advisor. He is a straight shooter able to explain the often-confusing world of personal finance in plain English. Canadians appreciate David's no-nonsense style and the fact that his views are totally independent. There are no sponsors behind the scenes shaping what he says and he does not sell any financial products. David says and writes what he wants to – unfiltered advice for the hard-working Canadian. David currently operates his own public accounting firm and gives half- and full-day seminars on his books to CAs in B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. He has also delivered seminars to the Certified Management Accountants of Ontario (CMAs) and the Certified General Accountants of Ontario (CGAs). He belongs to the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario (ICAO). He is a frequent speaker, appears regularly in the media and contributes regularly to financial publications. He is also a former director of Credit Canada, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people deal with credit problems. His website is www.trahair.com.

David Trahair's profile page

The Entrepreneurial Itch: Don’t Scratch Until You Read This Book!