9 VITAL STEPS TO STARTING A BUSINESS
Conduct market research
Conducting market research will enable you determine if there actually exist an opportunity to turn your idea into a successful business. It enables you gather information about potential customers and businesses already operating in your area. The information gotten should be used to find a competitive advantage for your business.
Write your business plan
A business plan is the very foundation of a business. Its acts as a roadmap on how the business would be structured, run, and grow. It would be used to convince people that working with you — or investing in your company — is a smart choice. The business plan will help you determine how much money you’ll need to start your business.
Fund your business
Funding the business may require either raising or borrowing the capital. Fortunately, there are more ways than ever to find the capital you need.
Pick your business location
This is a major decision you’ll need to make. Whether you’re setting up a brick-and-mortar business or launching an online store, whatever choice you make eventually make your business. These choices could affect your taxes, legal requirements, and revenue.
Choose a business structure
Your business legal structure you choose impacts your business registration requirements, how much you pay in taxes, and your personal liability. It influences the direction your business eventually follows.
Choose your business name
Picking the best name for your business isn’t always easy to come by. A good business name is one that reflects your brand and captures your spirit. You must take care to ensure that your business name isn’t already in existence, used by someone else.
Register your business
Once you’ve picked the perfect business name, it’s time to make it legal and protect your brand. If you’re doing business under a name different than your own, you’ll need to register with the federal government, and maybe your state government, too.
Apply for licenses and permits
This step helps you keep your business running smoothly without any legal violations. The licenses and permits you need for your business varies by industry, state, location, and other factors.
Open a business bank account
This step involves opening a small business checking account to enable you handle legal, tax, and day-to-day issues. The good news is that it is easy to set one up if you have the right registrations and paperwork ready.
