Welcome | Step One: Getting Started | Step Two: Operating a Business | Step Three: Business Plan

Step One: Research

Research is for your business what the four food groups are for your body: it is fuel; it is nourishment; it is essential for health and growth. Before starting a business, the entrepreneur needs to prepare a business plan. Before preparing a business plan, the entrepreneur needs to do a little homework, otherwise known as research. Research provides the "what," "where," and "how much" that every business owner needs to know to be successful. Keep up with your homework, and the whole process of starting and running a business will go much more smoothly. Your research will also create the foundation for all financial projections that you will make related to your business. Do a thorough job conducting your research and you will create a sound foundation for your future financial projections and for the future health of your business.

What?  Where?  How Much?