What are the first steps for starting a business?

[Arkitech]

I have a business idea that I would like to pitch to a bank or perhaps even a goverment office to attempt to get funding. Since this is the first time I've ever attempted anything like this I'm not sure exactly where I should start. Anyone out there been down that path before? How do I protect my idea from theft until I get my business launched? Its a really simple concept and it would'nt take much money to get started, more than likely less than 50k.

 

[dman]

I haven't borrowed money, but, I'm thinking:

Business Plan for one. Show how you plan to make money and when you will make money. Get a book on how to do it, or maybe some software?

And you'll also need good, ney, excellent credit and a lot of luck to get $50K w/ no prior business experience.

So, what industry are you looking to run this business in? Service? Technology? just curious.

 

[Arkitech]

Originally posted by: dman
I haven't borrowed money, but, I'm thinking:

Business Plan for one. Show how you plan to make money and when you will make money. Get a book on how to do it, or maybe some software?

And you'll also need good, ney, excellent credit and a lot of luck to get $50K w/ no prior business experience.

So, what industry are you looking to run this business in? Service? Technology? just curious.

Its actually in the service industry. I hope the fact that I don't have any business experience won't be a barrier, the biggest positive about my idea is that its a REALLY simple concept. In fact its one of those things that once people hear it they wonder why they did'nt think of it first.

 

[Eli]

I would say draft a solid business plan. After you've done that, you might be able to start thinking about contacting a bank or other financial resource.

 

[conjur]

Small Business Administration Startup Kit

 

[Arkitech]

Originally posted by: conjur
Small Business Administration Startup Kit

thanks for the link, this might be exactly what I need

 

[iamme]

just promise you're not the business opening up across the street from us!

good luck

(see sig)

 

[Zebo]

Call Dad.