SmallBusinessNewz

According to various rumors and hopeful statements, Facebook might be moving closer to conducting an IPO, and although this idea may not mean much at first to the average small business owner, it actually has some interesting ramifications for marketing strategies and perhaps even the economy as a whole.

First off, the latest word on the subject: Facebook investor Ron Conway went on the record as having his eye on a 12-24 month window for the Facebook IPO.  Which sounds somewhat solid.

As for what that move might mean, well, you can count on an IPO creating interest in Facebook on an entirely new level.  People who haven't yet tried the social network will give it a shot, and current users will go into virtual overtime staying active.  So businesses will definitely want to have a well-established presence on Facebook at that point.

Also, since Facebook isn't yet making money hand over fist, its ability to sell stock might be a signal that the economy will be in better shape.  People aren't liable to invest in a website if lines for bread are forming in the streets, after all.

Consider keeping an eye out for Facebook news, then, or at least sending a positive thought or two Mark Zuckerberg's way.