___ Determine what kind of business you want to start.
___ Learn about the industry for your business.
___ Analyze the market for your business.
___ Study your competition.
___ Educate yourself on running a business.
___ Join trade associations.
___ Name your business.
___ Perform a trademark search.
___ Register a domain name.
___ Design a website.
___ Obtain a logo.
___ Determine business structure (sole proprietor, partnership, or corporation).
___ Evaluate your personal budget.
___ Write a business plan.
___ Write a marketing plan.
___ Locate financing.
___ Create a list of startup supplies with budget.
___ Open a business checking account.
___ Setup a system for accounting and payroll.
___ Apply for business license, federal tax ID, and fictitious business name.
___ Select a location and set up shop.
___ Order signage.
___ Obtain business tools (computer, printer, fax, postage, office supplies, fixtures, etc.).
___ Order business stationery (business cards, letterhead, brochures, etc.).
___ Purchase inventory.
___ Create operations and employee manuals.
___ Hire employees.
___ Set a launch date.
___ Plan a grand opening event.
___ Send announcements to everyone you know.
___ Send press releases.
___ Turn on the OPEN sign!
___ Revisit your business plan and update often.
___ Evaluate your marketing strategy often.
This is an excerpt from "The Business Startup Checklist and Planning Guide: Seize Your Entrepreneurial Dreams!" by Stephanie Chandler. For book details and more resources for entrepreneurs, visit www.BusinessInfoGuide.com.
