Starting a small business can be daunting. Below is a helpful checklist to get you going on the path to success.
Planning
- Create a business plan
- Choose a name
- Research supplies and suppliers
- Estimate startup costs
- Estimate manufacturing costs
- Target audience
- Research Competition
- Set realistic goals
- Research pricing for items or services
- Research local markets
Marketing
- Buy domain name
- Create a website
- Create a business email
- Create social media accounts
- Create mailing list
- Create email signature
- Order business cards
- Photograph sample products
- Apply to local markets and events
Business
- Choose legal structure
- Register business name
- Obtain EIN
- Obtain licenses and permits
- Set up accounting system
Products & Services
- Designate a workspace
- Order supplies
- Create sample products
- Create an inventory list
- Create a pricing list
Branding
- Choose brand colours
- Design logo
- Create a tagline
- Order business cards
- Design product packaging
Finances
- Open business banking account
- Create a PayPal account
- Create order management system (eCommerce)
- Purchase mobile POS system
Analytics
- Sign up for Google Analytics/Search Console
- Facebook analytics
Download my FREE business planning workbook.