CHECKLIST FOR STARTING A BUSINESS

Business Interest:
What type of business are you planning?
What kind of experience do you have in this type of business?

Testing the Market:
What kind of market research have you done?
Who are your potential customers?
Are you familiar with your trade industry and your potential competition?

Acquiring Capital:
Do you need capital? If so, how do you plan to acquire it?
Do you know your personal credit history?
Are you familiar with the SBA Guaranteed Loan process?

Developing a Plan:
Do you know how much money/capital you will need to start your business?
Have you prepared a plan (feasibility study or comprehensive business plan)?
Could you benefit from attending a Business Plan Workshop?

Understanding Legal, Structure, and License Requirements:
Are you familiar with potential structures (Sub-S or Sole Proprietorship)?
Do you understand how company liabilities can affect your personal assets?
Do you need help with incorporation forms or fictitious name (Sole Proprietorship)?
Will you need to apply for an occupational license or collect and remit Sales Tax?
Do you know what kind of insurance coverage or bond will be needed?
Do you understand business accounting?
Do you need to attend a Workshop on Start Ups?