For Subscribers

Customize Your App Where to go to create a mobile strategy that will set you apart

By Ericka Chickowski

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

In a crowded mobile world, there is hope for small businesses looking for unique apps. Modular, customizable development tools can help you add the features you want without having to start from scratch. Here's a look at some resources.

BuildAnApp
BuildAnApp lets users quickly create mobile apps through assorted standard templates and a six-step wizard. The platform then creates an app and pushes it out to multiple device types, including iPhone, Android, RIM and Windows Mobile. Build-AnApp offers a free 30-day trial, charges $19.99 for submissions to the Apple App Store and $14.99 per month for unlimited updates to customer apps.

Mobile Roadie
Designed originally for bands and performers looking to create custom applications that offer a way to share photos, videos, music, news and show dates with fans, this iPhone and Google Android compatible DIY app platform service could also be used by businesses to share custom content with customers. Setup starts at $499, with a $29 per month hosting fee.

Canvas
If your organization is considering developing some internal tools for in-the-field staffers such as sales personnel or auditors, it might be worthwhile to hit up the Canvas mobile app store for businesses before you hire a consultant. Canvas offers mobile apps that suit the needs of businesses in a variety of industries. The service is $20 per month for unlimited applications on a single device.

dotMobi Instant Mobilizer
More focused on mobile websites than applications, dotMobi enables small businesses to affordably use their existing online content on various mobile web platforms. The dotMobi Instant Mobilizer transforms PC-based websites into mobile-ready websites meant to be viewed on the small screen. The service is available for free from dotMobi domain reseller partners.

Self-described tech geek Ericka Chickowski also writes for Consumers Digest, the Los Angeles Times and the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

Leadership

7 Steps to De-Risking Big Business Decisions Before They Backfire

When the stakes are high, these seven steps can help you avoid costly mistakes, eliminate bias and make smarter decisions that actually scale.

Business News

United Airlines Says It Is Adding Extra Flights in Case Spirit 'Suddenly Goes Out of Business'

Rival airlines, including United and Frontier, are adding new routes as Spirit cuts 12 cities from its schedule.

Leadership

The Difference Between Entrepreneurs Who Survive Crises and Those Who Don't

In a business world accelerated by AI, visibility alone is fragile. Here's how strategic silence and consistency can turn reputation into your most powerful asset.

Employee Experience & Recruiting

Here's the Real Reason Your Employees Are Checked Out — And the Missing Link That Could Fix It

Most disengaged employees aren't exhausted — they're disconnected, and storytelling may be the key to rebuilding that connection.

Leadership

Can Startup Founders Become Great CEOs? Here's What It Takes.

Startup founders CAN evolve into outstanding CEOs — rather than being replaced by them. Here's how.