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Two Portland businesses, Heart LLC and Heart Pizza LLC, are currently battling over the use of their very similar names. Heart LLC has been using the trademark HEART in connection with specialty coffee goods and services since 2009. Heart Pizza LLC, on the other hand, started using the trademark HEART in connection with—you guessed it—pizza-related...

Women are launching businesses at an unprecedented rate, yet the road to success is rarely smooth. While female founders prove their resilience and innovation daily, they face unique challenges—from securing funding to balancing leadership with personal life demands. But let's be clear: female entrepreneurs aren't just keeping up; they're redefining...

As an entrepreneur, you can appreciate how difficult it may be to get funding for your business. You've pitched your heart out, refined your business plan, and networked like it's an Olympic sport, yet the only word you seem to hear from investors is "no." But fret not! It's possible...

It might seem a bit early to think about your 2023 taxes, but as the year draws to a close, it's the perfect time to take a closer look at your financial situation and make some strategic moves that can help you minimize your tax liability come April. Year-end tax...

As you are thinking of starting your own business, you'll need to get clear on a number of issues to ensure both you and your operation are properly positioned for success. Oftentimes, aspiring entrepreneurs jump headfirst into business ownership, with false expectations of what it takes to run a successful...

Far too many aspiring entrepreneurs jump-start their businesses without taking the time to properly plan. Just as a builder uses a blueprint to ensure a new construction project will be structurally sound, a carefully researched and well-thought-out business plan allows you to determine whether or not your business concept will...

Starting your own business is exciting! And it's not just about the money. You get to follow your passion, control your schedule, achieve financial independence, and share your unique product or service with the world. Whether you start your business on a shoestring or have millions in venture capital behind...

A partnership can be a rewarding and efficient business model if set up the right way, and crafting a robust partnership agreement from day one is crucial for outlining the rights, responsibilities, and operational procedures within your business venture.  This agreement serves as a protective framework that ensures all partners...

Getting married and starting a new chapter in your life is an exciting time. It's also a time that requires a lot of housekeeping such as updating your address if your marriage includes a move, changing your tax filing status with your employer, and adding your new spouse to your...

If you are a newlywed or are planning to tie the knot soon, it's time to make your first legal move as a married couple – creating an estate plan. With all the joy and happiness a new marriage brings, planning for your potential incapacity and future death may feel...