Twelve steps, in order.

Talk to 20 people who would buy it. Ask what they use today, what it costs them, and what they would switch for.

Map five competitors: price, hours, reviews and what customers complain about. The complaints are your opening.

Your local SBDC (Small Business Development Center) gives free market research help.

Use our business plan builder — about ten minutes, with your breakeven month and cash need.

SBA’s traditional plan format: summary, market, organization, products, marketing, funding request and financials.

One page of key assumptions. Test the riskiest one first, then update the plan.

Money, hours and a launch checklist in one place.

One-time: build-out, equipment, deposits, licenses, opening inventory. Monthly: rent, payroll, utilities, software, insurance.

Plan for the lowest cash point, not just opening day — the months before sales cover costs are where businesses run short.

Fastest and you keep control. Keep personal and business money separate from day one.

SBA Lender Match connects you with SBA-approved lenders.

You trade ownership for capital — put roles, decisions and exit terms in writing.

Works best when you already have an audience that wants the product.

Check local zoning and any home-occupation permit before you open.

Review the full lease — base rent plus CAM (common area maintenance), term, renewal and who fixes what.

You still need a business address for registration, taxes and your bank.

Simplest to start; no separation between you and the business’s debts.

Two or more owners — write a partnership agreement before you open.

Separates business liability from personal assets; flexible taxes.

More formal; S corp status can change how owners are taxed. Talk to a CPA before you choose.

Search your state’s business-name registry, usually the Secretary of State.

Search the U.S. trademark database before you print anything.

Check the web address and social handles at the same time.

Register with your state, usually the Secretary of State.

File a DBA (doing business as) with your state or county.

Often no state registration needed — local licenses still apply.

Apply directly with the IRS — it is free and takes minutes. Never pay a site for it.

Needed if you collect sales tax or have employees in your state.

General business license, zoning, signage, and occupancy for your space.

Professional and trade licenses, sales-tax permits, health permits.

Only for regulated work — for example alcohol, firearms, transportation or broadcasting.

Or your Social Security number if you are a sole proprietor without one.

Articles of organization or incorporation, and any ownership agreement.

Then set up card payments and bookkeeping on the same day.

Covers injuries and property damage claims from customers.

For advice or services — errors and omissions.

Required in almost every state once you have employees.

A business owner’s policy bundles liability and property for small businesses.