This fastback document examines small education businesses that provide direct and personal instructional service to clients. Although education private-practice enterprises have not received the attention that high-profile companies have commanded, there are thousands of such one- and two-person enterprises. These practices work with and support the public schools through contractual arrangements that allow their skills to be used for direct intervention for a relatively modest cost. But before starting a practice, entrepreneurs should understand that the quality and cost of their services will become known to the client population through advertising, word-of-mouth, and testimonials; that the geographic area in which services are to be provided must be identified; and that start-up costs should be manageable. Furthermore, a business plan is needed to determine the potential market, to secure financing, and to adhere to legal requirements. Small business-development centers can help with such plans. The entrepreneur must then acquire clients through advertising, conference attendance, or other means. General advertising, however, rarely justifies the cost of the ads. Once the business is operational, a daily operational plan should be initiated and oral and written reports generated. Business owners should also expect to handle inquiries that will not lead to contracts. (RJM)