The following message was posted by Francie Ward, CEO of Idea Cafe, on June 14, 2006:

"Want to increase your bottom line? Keep more of your hard- earned cash with these money-saving tips and tricks. We've put up the first five ideas - now we invite you to share ways you've found to avoid some of the high costs of doing business. Remember, the best idea each week wins the extraordinarily stylish and comfortable Idea Cafe T-shirt!


Stop Wasting Money On A Dedicated Fax Line
Instead, get your faxes via email from a cost-efficient service like MyFax.

Use Barter To Exchange Services You'd Otherwise Have To Pay For.
Whatever it is you make or do, chances are there are professionals in your community who need what you have to offer. You can save on tax preparation, legal services, landscape services and a host of other things. Many communities have barter exchanges that act as a clearinghouse for people who want to trade instead of pay.


Share Workspace.
If you're ready to move your business out of your home, consider sub-leasing or co-operative rentals with one or more other businesses. You can share not only the rent, but equipment such as copiers and faxes.


Pool Your Purchases With Other Business Owners.
Take advantage of quantity discounts by placing a larger order, then splitting it with others.


Recycle Your Ink Cartridges.
Several office supply chain stores will give you credit if you bring in your old cartridges, reducing the price of your replacement cartridges.

Cheers,

Francie Ward
CEO
Chief Entrepreneurial Officer

Idea CafeŽ
The Fun Place for Serious Business(sm)"