Getting Started

Get Ready – Get Set – Go

Here are some suggestions and resources to help first time entrepreneurs get started on the path to creating a business. 

So you want to start a business… There are 2 steps you should do first.

Step 1 - Evaluate – Get Ready

Is my business idea a good fit for me?  For the market?  For the investors, partners, and banks that will finance it? (more)

Step 2 - Plan – Get Set

A business plan is a systematic and disciplined way of examining and addressing the factors that will determine the success of your business. (more)

Now you are ready for Step 3

Step 3 - Startup and Run – Go

Check out this page for some pointers and to help you navigate the dozens of excellent resources that are available online. (more)

Some Basics

Business is all about making money by creating value for customers.

Three fundamental reasons businesses don’t get off the ground or growth is stymied are: 

1. Don’t connect to the market.

2. Can’t manage their operation efficiently.

3. Lack of financial resources when needed. 

Some things to remember: 

• Focus on delivering tremendous value to customers.  Everything flows from this.

• Get help from others who have done this already.  Have advisors.

• Build a team, don’t just go it alone.

• Become a consummate networker.

• Manage your cash flow.

• Talk to potential customers.  Understand your market better than anyone else.

• Sell, sell, sell.

Go to Step 1- Evaluate - Get Ready