Whether you’re launching your first business or scaling an established startup, understanding the financial side of entrepreneurship is crucial. Fortunately, there are many insightful books written by successful investors, business owners, and financial experts that can help guide you. We’ve assembled a list of ten essential business finance books that every entrepreneur should consider reading to strengthen their financial literacy and grow their business with confidence.
1. The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham
Why it’s valuable: This classic book, often referred to as the “bible of investing,” teaches the fundamentals of value investing. Graham’s core principle—investing with a margin of safety—helps business owners think more cautiously about financial decisions and long-term stability.
Best for: Entrepreneurs who want to understand risk assessment and smarter investing strategies.
2. Profit First by Mike Michalowicz
Why it’s valuable: This practical guide flips traditional accounting on its head by focusing on taking profit first and managing the rest of your expenses accordingly.
- Learn to prioritize profits and avoid living paycheck to paycheck—even in business.
- Simple, proven systems to manage cash flow effectively.
3. Financial Intelligence for Entrepreneurs by Karen Berman and Joe Knight
Why it’s valuable: Many entrepreneurs shy away from financial reports because they seem complex. This book breaks down financial statements, key metrics, and ratios in an approachable and practical way.
Ideal for: Business owners who want to feel confident discussing income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports.
4. The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
Why it’s valuable: While not exclusively a finance book, it introduces the concept of building a business that is efficient, scalable, and mindful of spending through the “build-measure-learn” feedback loop.
Highlights:
- Reduce wasteful spending in early-stage startups
- Make financially responsible pivots based on data and customer feedback
5. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki
Why it’s valuable: This bestseller emphasizes the mindset shift necessary to become financially independent. Although more general in theme, its lessons apply strongly to entrepreneurs.
Takeaways include: thinking like an investor, understanding asset vs. liability, and building passive income within your business model.
6. Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
Why it’s valuable: Though originally published in 1937, its focus on the psychology of wealth creation still resonates. Entrepreneurs benefit from the principles of goal setting, desire, and persistence that directly affect financial success.
Note: It’s more mindset-oriented but still offers real-world applications in business and finance.
7. Accounting Made Simple by Mike Piper
Why it’s valuable: This short, no-frills guide explains key accounting concepts in easy-to-understand language. It’s a fantastic starting point for entrepreneurs who don’t come from a financial background.
- Understand your books without getting lost in jargon
- Quick overview of income, expenses, taxes, and financial statements
8. The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber
Why it’s valuable: Gerber explores why so many small businesses fail financially and how to systematize your operation for long-term success.
Key insights:
- Work on your business, not just in it
- Build financial systems that make your company scalable and efficient
9. The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel
Why it’s valuable: This book dives into the emotional side of finance. It helps entrepreneurs understand how behavior and decision-making impact financial outcomes just as much as strategies and formulas.
Learn about:
- The importance of long-term thinking
- Managing financial risk while building a business
10. Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez
Why it’s valuable: While primarily written for personal finance, the concepts of financial independence, intentional spending, and value creation are extremely relevant to entrepreneurs managing small businesses.
Helps entrepreneurs:
- Align time, money, and purpose
- Make financially sustainable decisions for both work and life
Final Thoughts
Financial knowledge is a cornerstone of business success. These books offer a balanced mix of mindset, strategy, and practical tools that can help you better understand your numbers, improve profitability, and make smarter financial decisions. No matter where you are on your entrepreneurial journey, carving out time to read even a few of these titles can yield lasting benefits for you and your business.