✅ STEP 1: BUSINESS PLANNING Start with your vision and validate your business idea. Tasks: - Brainstorm a viable business idea. - Conduct basic market research (target audience, competitors, pricing). - Write a starter business plan (lean one-pager is fine). - Choose a business name that is: Tools: - Lean Business Plan Template (PDF) - Business Name Generator ✅ STEP 2: BUSINESS IDENTITY Establish the foundational digital and legal identity of your business. Tasks: - Register a domain name (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap) - Create a professional email address (e.g.,
[email protected]) - Secure a physical or virtual business address - Set up a dedicated business phone number(Google Voice, RingCentral, Grasshopper) Tip: Ensure your name, phone, address, and email are consistent across all platforms (NAP consistency). ✅ STEP 3: BUSINESS REGISTRATION Make your business official and legal. Tasks: - Register your business with the Secretary of State in your state. - Apply for your EIN (Employer Identification Number) via IRS👉 https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online - Create Operating Agreement or Bylaws (LLC or Corp) - Decide your Entity Classification (LLC, S-Corp, etc.) Templates: - Free Operating Agreement Templates (PDF/Word) - LLC vs. S-Corp Comparison Guide (PDF) ✅ STEP 4: BUSINESS BRANDING Build your brand's visual and digital presence. Tasks: - Complete a Brand Strategy Worksheet (values, tone, audience) - Get a professional logo (Canva Pro, Fiverr, Looka) - Create a website (Wix, Squarespace, WordPress, Shopify) - Set up social media profiles (IG, FB, TikTok, LinkedIn) - Create marketing materials (digital & print) Tools: - Canva (Brand Kit & Templates) - Looka Logo Maker