First Steps to Start a Business
Starting a business is never easy, nor is success a guarantee. Confidence is important but so is an honest evaluation of your business plan, an understanding of the legal aspects of entrepreneurship and a realistic expectation of how your business will make money (and when). The following articles cover the critical first steps every entrepreneur should take before starting a business. For an overview of steps in starting a new business, you can download FindLaw's Guide to Starting a Business [pdf].
Learn About First Steps to Start a Business
- Business Start-Up Checklist
Checklist of the various steps involved in starting a business, with links to more-specific FindLaw articles
- Start-Up Basics
The basics of what to consider before starting a business, such as finding a niche and choosing a legal structure
- 10 Reasons to Contact an Attorney Before Starting a Business
Crucial reasons for consulting with an attorney before launching a start-up, including the need for enforceable contracts
- Tips for a Successful Small Business
Tips for building a successful business, such as writing a business plan and hiring the right people
- Starting a Business - Legal FAQs
Where to get a business license and answers to other frequently asked legal questions related to starting a business
- Starting a Business: Do's and Don'ts
Helpful tips on what to do and what not to do when starting a new business
First Steps to Start a Business Articles
- 10 Reasons to Contact an Attorney before Starting a Business
- Business Start-Up Checklist
- Confidential Business Start-Up Information Questionnaire
- Do You Have What It Takes?
- Evaluating Your New Small Business Idea
- Finding a Niche
- High Risk Business
- How to Do a Break-Even Analysis before Starting your Business
- Is Entrepreneurship for You?
- Legal Limitations to Consider When Starting a Business
- Start a New Business
- Start-Up Basics
- Starting a Business - Legal FAQs
- Starting a Business Glossary
- Starting a Business: Do's and Don'ts
- Starting a Green Business
- State Employment Agencies
- State Resources: Starting a Business
- Tips for a Successful Small Business
- Tips for the Small Business Entrepreneur