Owning a business is the dream of many Americans … starting that business converts your dream into reality. But there is a gap between your dream and reality that can only be filled with careful planning. If you are thinking of starting a business, you should begin by weighing the pros and cons so that you can make a wise decision.
- How much financial risk can I assume?
- How do I know if that risk is worth it?
- Is there enough demand to sustain my business?
- Will this fit into my lifestyle?
- How much is it going to cost?
STEP 1:
Attend one of our “Orientation to Starting a Business in Minnesota” workshops. Learn what it really takes to open a successful business and more. Visit our eCenter to view our workshop schedule and sign up for a session near you. Sessions are currently offered in Mankato, Fairmont and New Ulm.
STEP 2:
Do your research and find resources. Visit the SBA web page Thinking of Starting a Business? for a comprehensive guide to help you prepare a business plan, determine if your idea is feasible, identify questions and problems you will face in converting your idea into reality, and to prepare for starting your business.
STEP 3:
Complete a draft Business Plan. To maximize the value of counseling, clients should prepare a draft business plan before meeting with an SBDC consultant. Without a doubt, preparing an adequate business plan is the most important step in starting a new enterprise. It will be your guide to launching and managing a successful business. It should contain all the pertinent information about your business; it must be well written, factual and organized in a logical sequence. Moreover, it should not contain any statements that cannot be supported. Numerous business plan templates are available on the internet. Start here.
STEP 4:
Contact the SBDC team! Once you’ve seriously evaluated your goal and you have a draft business plan, it’s time to tap into the expertise of the SBDC team.
Clients must sign a “Request for Counseling” form and must agree to participate in surveys designed to measure the effectiveness of the SBDC program.
Complete a Request for Services.