How often does this happen to you: you're planning something, perhaps a home renovation project or a surprise party, and you need a specific item, like a Baxi brand boiler or a pair of red and white striped mittens, but you have no idea where to find them. If this has ever happened to you and you live in Austin, the Austin Business Journal can be your saving grace. It's also the patron saint of investors looking for advice, curious business aficionados scrounging for news, and anyone who owns a business in Austin. Here are just a few of the things you can find within it.

News

Who's been awarded contracts? What new laws are coming out that might affect your business? Who's doing well this quarter and who's not? The Austin Business Journal has all of this and more. If something happens in Austin, the Business Journal knows. Not only does it keep up to date on the goings on of governments and fire sleeve manufacturers in the city, but it also casts a state and nationwide news net to draw in anything that may directly or indirectly affect your business.

Business Directory

This is the most useful feature for laymen who don't own their own business. It can be tough sometimes to find a good contractor to do your renovations or an accessories store that will make you a custom license plate frame. Bizjournals.com maintains a listing service for multiple cities, including Austin, organized by category so you can easily find what you're looking for, from Accountancy to Telecommunications. It's also a great resource to use if you are a business owner looking for exposure.

Expert Advice

Not everyone is able to hire financial expert Dennis Gartman, so the Austin Business Journal maintains two advice libraries, one for small businesses, and one for sales and marketing. Browsing their topics is a great way to start off your research for opening a business. It will be able to tell you the peculiarities of owning a hardware store or a floral boutique as opposed to a toy shop or a book exchange. Seeking advice before you start out can save you a lot of money in the long run, and access is free to all internet surfers.

Events and Posting Boards

If you're waiting for the next chamber of commerce meeting or interested in attending an accounting seminar, keep an eye on the events page. Registered members can also post comments and connect with one another via the website. There's also a posting board for job seekers and employers where you might find a position at an aquarium supplies store. Extra features also include a real estate guide, business travel guide, and a listing of businesses for sale.