Every year, millions of people in the U.S. decide to start their own business. It is one of the most exciting and challenging things you can do in the world of work. You are making decisions that will have a direct impact on your life. Get them right and your business will prosper.
Careful planning and an understanding of the processes, challenges, and requirements for starting a new business makes the difference between those that succeed and those that fail. For success, your business must be built like a strong house—with a good foundation and floor plan. Take the time to do it right the first time. Use these resources and lessons learned from other entrepreneurs to find your way and achieve your dream.
Are you suited to be an entrepreneur? Find out what traits successful business owners share, and take a quiz to see how successful you might be at starting your own business.
Did you know there were rules about naming your business, depending on whether it's a partnership, corporation, etc.? If not, or if you're having trouble creating a unique, memorable moniker, you might need to study these articles and links.
The type of legal structure you choose for your business defines how the firm is owned and affects tax classification, potential to raise capital, and the owners' personal liability, among other things.
Business owners must contend with legal issues specific to them, like employees' rights, environmental regulations, copyrights, and other concerns.
The location of your new enterprise can have a great impact on sales, or--if you operate a business out of your home--may have no impact at all. Learn about these and other issues related to choosing a locale.
Depending on whether you have employees, what your firm's legal structure is, and what you sell, you may need to register with one or more government entities before you start up.
