This document outlines the steps needed to successfully start a new business, including choosing legal and financial advisors, developing a business plan, securing funding and a location, setting up necessary business entities and licenses, establishing accounting and payroll systems, hiring staff, and ongoing marketing and compliance requirements after opening. It emphasizes the importance of planning, staying focused, and regularly reviewing financial and operational data against business goals to ensure ongoing success.

1. Starting a New Business Checklist - Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce - 3/12/2010
Before you open your doors:
 So… You’re thinking about starting a new business. Why? (What is your exit plan?)
 Choosing your Accountant, Lawyer and Financial Planner
 Choosing your business entity and why that is important
 Choosing a name for your business
 Setting up a Board of Directors (or an Advisory Board)
 Creating a long-term Business Plan
 Choosing a location for your business
 Lease versus purchase for your business location?
 Starting the marketing process
 Funding your business (Business loan, personal loan, investment money??)
 Opening a bank account (and what not to put in your bank account)
 Getting a business license
 Setting up your company for payroll (with the IRS, State of GA, Dept. of Labor)
 Setting up Sales Taxes if they will apply to your situation
 Insurance and why you need it
 Signage
 The importance of an internet presence
 Getting your IT needs set up
 Setting up your accounting system
 Getting set up on credit cards
 Hiring your staff (Employees or Contract??)
After you open your doors:
 Network Marketing
 Other Marketing (Direct Marketing and Targeted Marketing)
 Knowing where you got your new clients
 Staying in touch with your clients in meaningful ways
 Entering your data into your accounting system (Income and Expenses)
 Entering your budget (from your Business Plan) into your accounting system
 Reviewing your data (and how it compares to your Business Plan / Budget)
 Meeting with your Board of Directors/Advisory Board (and recording the minutes)
 Revising your Business Plan
 Staying Compliant (taxes, legal, etc.)
 Repeat all of the last 10 steps often!!
Failure is not an option. It is, however, a nagging possibility that helps to keep you focused!
Business Plans & More, Inc. 1372 Wyngate Place, Lawrenceville, GA 30043
Tel 770-822-2322 E-mail: Bob@BizPlansAndMORE.com Web Site: www.BizPlansAndMORE.com