The ecomony has been rough on everyone, and entreprenuers are no different.  In fact many have been forced to cut their own pay to keep their businesses afloat, according to this story in the Wall Street Journal.

Are you considering involvement in a multi-level marketing (MLM) business venture? Or maybe you’re considering a “network marketing” opportunity that offers multi-tiered commissions? Be careful. Studies have shown that up to 99% of people recruited to sell through these businesses end up losing money. If you are considering participating in such a “network marketing” opportunity, then please take a few minutes to read this special RISE Program report that describes how to spot such scams. The report includes advice from one of the marketing industry’s biggest watchdogs.

Every day Eleanor Bluestein packs her car and begins her run to the many locations where she services her vending machines.  Her company, Eleanor’s Enterprises, keeps soda machines in central Maryland filled as part of her business, which was made possible by a grant from the RISE Program.