Have an idea – Many people do not have any idea where or how to start their business but know they want to become an entrepreneur. They have the spirit to engage and compete but no practical or working knowledge where to begin. There are many options for those who can’t create something new. They can buy a franchise or an existing business or consult others for ideas. Once you know what business you want to start, go to the next step.

Write a business plan – this will help you and others evaluate your business properly. This is needed to get capital for your business. If you’re using your own money, you will still need a business plan to create strategies and establish financial projections. Another critical part of the business plan is the marketing plan. This will help you communicate, advertise and promote your products and services.

Do research - find out your potential market. Is your product needed? Who will buy it? Who are your competitors? Can you identify your customers? These questions have to be answered before you start a business. Otherwise, you might discover too late that there are not enough customers for your product.

Get money – you can’t start a business without enough capital. Know what you have, what you need and how to get it. Know the costs associated with your business so you can succeed.

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Starting a Small Business 101: The Essential Steps to Starting a Small Business

This guide by About.com covers the basics, from identifying business opportunities and creating a business plan to setting up an accounting system. A great place to start for someone just beginning to consider starting their own business.

Small Business Planner

The U.S. Small Business Administration provides a Small Business Planner with information and resources that will help you at any stage of the business lifecycle.

Starting a Small Business

Entrepreneur.com offers a wealth of information for business owners, from the business ideas and basic planning to going green, marketing, and more. You can also find special categories devoted to young entrepreneurs and Mompreneurs, success stories, and much more.

Starting a Business

As much as some would like to, you cannot forget the tax liabilities that come with owning a business. The IRS gives you a guide to what types of liabilities come with each type of business establishment.

Starting Your Business

Business Owner’s Toolkit provides a collection of articles on starting your own business, including an analysis if you have what it takes, finding the right business for your, and helping you foresee your ability to succeed.

Free Sample Business Plans

Bplans.com has over 500 free sample business plans for you to use as a base example for your own, plus many articles on how to start your business, getting funded, growing your business, online business and more.

Small Business Marketing

The Wall Street Journal has the latest news on small businesses. You can even find businesses for sale by location and by type.

Small Business Information for the Entrepreneur

Inc.com provides entrepreneurs help with small business resources, advice and ideas for starting a business, writing a business plan, management, home office, franchises, incorporate, angel investors, venture capital, and more.

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