Business Startup Checklist

So you came up with an idea for your own business, and you’ve met with a consultant to find out if it’s feasible. It passed the test, and you can’t wait get the ball rolling and get your business open. What’s next?

Use this Business Startup Checklist to cover all the bases, from writing your business plan to mapping out your financing strategy. This will help you create a strong, documented foundation before you rush into any key decisions.

Click Here to Download the Checklist PDF

Here is a checklist of the basic areas you need to cover before opening your business:

  • Write a Business Plan
  • Determine the Financing You Will Need and How You Will Get It
  • Set Up a Relationship with a Banker, if needed
  • Set Up Other Professional Relationships, if needed
  • Set Up a Relationship with an Attorney, if needed
  • Decide on the Legal Form for the Business
  • Choose & Register a Business Name
  • Meet Legal Requirements for Operating a Business
  • Get Licenses and Permits (Local, State, Federal)
  • Get State Sales Tax Permit
  • Obtain your Federal Employer ID Number (FEIN)
  • Obtain company bank account
  • Plan for Risk & Insurance
  • Obtain O ice Space, Equipment and Suppliers
  • Set up Recordkeeping Systems
  • Set up a Financial Management System
  • Develop a Marketing Plan
  • Hire Employees
  • Develop a Day-to-Day Managerial Plan

Looking to start or grow your business?

We at the Orange County Inland Empire SBDC, are here to help you with every aspect of your business to help it grow and become successful.
Give us a call at 1-800-616-7232 or schedule a quick, 15-minute intake appointment at ociesbdc.org/consultation to see how we can help you start, grow, and succeed.

Business Startup Checklist

Mike Daniel is the network director of the Orange County Inland Empire SBDC Network, which assists aspiring entrepreneurs and current business owners throughout Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside counties. Mike was formerly the director of the SBDC office at Long Beach City College. As business owner and entrepreneur himself, he started his career as the owner of a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory location in Manhattan Beach and went on to open a second location in Long Beach in 2001. In 2007, Mike sold the Manhattan Beach store for an above-market offer then invested in several additional locations as a minority shareholder. Mike further expanded his candy empire with venture located in Shoreline Village in Long Beach called Sugar Daddies Sweet Shoppe, based on fill-it yourself candy options.

Mike has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from California State University, Fullerton.