Background work
Analyze your business idea by doing a SWOT analysis
Assess your strengths and weaknesses as an entrepreneur
Establish business and personal goals
Assess your financial resources and identify potential sources of funds
Identify the financial risks
Determine the start-up costs
Decide on your business location
Do a thorough market research
Identify your customers
Identify your competitors
Develop a marketing plan
Assess your strengths and weaknesses as an entrepreneur
Establish business and personal goals
Assess your financial resources and identify potential sources of funds
Identify the financial risks
Determine the start-up costs
Decide on your business location
Do a thorough market research
Identify your customers
Identify your competitors
Develop a marketing plan
Business transactions
Choose a form of organization (proprietorship, partnership, or corporation, for example)
Create your business (register your name, incorporate the business, etc.)
Prepare a business plan
Select a bank and set up a business checking account
Apply for business loans and grants (if applicable)
Establish a line of credit (if possible)
First steps
Prepare corporate brochures
Build a web site
Set-up corporate e-mail accounts
Get business cards
Obtain a lease
Line up suppliers (if applicable)
Get furniture and equipment
Obtain business licenses or permits (if applicable)
Choose a starting date
Prepare and deploy your communication/marketing strategy
