Checklist: Start a Company
Using a checklist can often help you stay organized and in control. Below is a guideline you can rely on to ensure that you don't miss a task or a deadline. Feel free to print a copy, email it to yourself, or share this link with a friend.
 
1. Long-Term Preparations
 
Research the industry and market you plan to enter. Know the trends, forecasts, developments, opportunities, risks, competitors, etc.
Decide whether you will pursue this venture full-time or part-time.
If you are in a relationship, discuss this lifestyle change with your partner.
Write a business plan.
Choose a name for your company. Register the name with the appropriate authorities.
Choose the hours and days of operation for your business.
Outline a monthly and yearly budget.
Make a plan to obtain funding/financing. Find investors and consult with your bank.
Obtain required licenses and permits.
Choose a legal form for your business, such as limited liability, sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation.
Form a legal entity and acquire an Employer Identification Number.
Obtain company contact information: telephone and fax number, email address, post address, Skype account, etc.
Open a bank account and a merchant account.
Investigate courses and seminars dedicated to helping small business owners and start-ups.
Find a financial advisor.
Find business insurance.
Find a lawyer.
Find a tax advisor.
Find an accountant.
Find a notary.
Become familiar with regulations and compliance requirements.
Register trademarks, copyrights, logos, patents, etc.
If you'll need an office or production space, find a real estate agent to help you source a property.
Sign a contract for your new office or production space.
If you're moving to new office, find a moving company.
If you will work from a home office but want a different address, consider using mailbox rental services.
Find office equipment and suppliers.
Make sure your office has a high speed Internet connection.
Create a floor plan for your new office space.
 
2. Mid-Term Preparations
 
Select an accounting and financial management system.
Write a sales and marketing plan.
Create a customer service policy.
Purchase a domain name for your website.
Hire or outsource your IT services.
If you're hiring staff, post available jobs or find a recruiting company.
If you have staff, find payroll services.
If you will have employees, become familiar with labor laws.
Find a web hosting company.
Create a website. Make a site map for content and functionality.
Find a web designer and/or graphic designer.
 
3. Short-Term Preparations
 
Find a search engine optimization company to increase your presence on the web.
Create marketing materials such as signs if you have a storefront, sales literature, stationery or business cards.
Take advantage of networking opportunities to build your business (business contacts, conferences, events, alumna connections, social networking, word of mouth, etc.).
Write and distribute a press release announcing your new business.
Find an answering service solution for when you can't take phone calls.
Consider hiring a telemarketing company.
Explore virtual office options for added services at a low cost.
If you have an office, find a professional cleaning service for it.
Make sure your new business is green!
 

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