From Idea to Launch: Your 90-Day Business Startup Blueprint

So, you're ready to start your own business? Awesome! Let's skip the corporate jargon and get straight to what actually works. Here's your real-world guide to turning that business dream into reality.

Part 1: Getting Started (The Fun Stuff!)

Find Your Sweet Spot

Before you spend a dime, answer these questions:

• What are you really good at?

• What do people always ask for your help with?

• What would you do even if you weren't paid?

• Is there a market willing to pay for it?

Pro Tip: Don't just chase trending business ideas. The best business for you sits at the intersection of what you love, what you're good at, and what people will pay for.

Create Your Game Plan

Think of your business plan like a GPS for your business journey. Here's what you need:

The Simple Business Plan Template:

1. The Big Idea (Executive Summary)

   • What you're selling

   • Who's buying it

   • Why they'll choose you

2. Show Me the Money

   • How much you'll charge

   • What it costs to deliver

   • When you'll break even

3. Getting the Word Out

   • How customers will find you

   • Your marketing strategy

   • Your sales process

Part 2: Making It Official

Choose Your Business Structure

Let's make this simple:

🏠 Sole Proprietorship

• Easiest to set up

• Great for solo entrepreneurs

• But your personal assets are at risk

🤝 LLC (Limited Liability Company)

• Protects your personal assets

• Flexible tax options

• Perfect for most small businesses

🏢 Corporation

• Best for raising money

• Most complex structure

• Usually overkill for startups

Pro Tip: Most small businesses do great as LLCs. It's the sweet spot between protection and simplicity.

The Legal Checklist

Don't skip these steps:

1. Get your EIN (tax ID) - it's free!

2. Apply for necessary licenses

3. Register your business name

4. Get basic insurance coverage

Part 3: Setting Up Shop

The Money Stuff

First things first:

1. Open a business bank account

   • Keeps your personal and business money separate

   • Makes tax time way easier

   • Looks professional to customers

2. Get a business credit card

   • Build business credit

   • Track expenses easily

   • Earn rewards on business purchases

Your Digital Presence

Even if you're not tech-savvy, you need:

1. A simple website

2. Google Business Profile

3. Basic social media presence

Pro Tip: Start with where your customers actually hang out online. You don't need to be everywhere!

Part 4: Finding the Money

Startup Funding Options

Let's be real about your choices:

💰 Bootstrap (Self-Fund)

• Use your savings

• Start small and grow slowly

• Keep full control

🤝 Friends and Family

• Often easier than bank loans

• Get everything in writing

• Be clear about risks

🏦 Traditional Loans

• Hard to get for new businesses

• Requires good personal credit

• Need a solid business plan

🌟 Crowdfunding

• Great for product-based businesses

• Tests market interest

• Marketing built into fundraising

Part 5: Setting Yourself Up for Success

Smart Money Management

1. Use accounting software from day one

2. Track every expense

3. Set aside money for taxes

4. Keep personal and business money separate

Protect Your Business

Essential insurance types:

• General liability

• Professional liability (if providing services)

• Property insurance (if you have a physical location)

Build Your Support Team

You'll need:

• A good accountant

• A business-savvy lawyer

• A mentor or advisor

• Supportive entrepreneurial friends

Your First 90 Days Checklist

Month 1:

• Choose your business structure

• Get your EIN

• Open bank accounts

• Set up basic accounting

Month 2:

• Build your online presence

• Set up payment systems

• Get necessary insurance

• Start marketing

Month 3:

• Make your first sale

• Establish business processes

• Set up customer feedback systems

• Plan for growth

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don't mix personal and business money

• Don't skip the legal stuff

• Don't forget about taxes

• Don't try to do everything yourself

• Don't undercharge for your products/services

Ready to Take the Leap?

Starting a business is like learning to ride a bike - it seems scary at first, but once you get going, it's exciting and freeing. The key is to start small, learn as you go, and not be afraid to ask for help.

Your Next Steps:

1. Write down your business idea

2. Talk to potential customers

3. Make a simple budget

4. Contact us for guidance

Remember: Every successful business started exactly where you are right now. The difference between dreaming and doing is taking that first step.

Need help getting started? We specialize in helping new business owners set up for success. Let's talk about your business idea and create a plan that works for you

Please use the link below to schedule a no cost consultation

https://calendly.com/rolandamcduffiecpa/20-min