Your Small Business Startup Checklist
Use this small business startup checklist to turn your idea into a practical plan. Test demand, estimate costs, and organize your next steps with the official SBA guide and website resources below.
Small Business Startup Checklist: Before You Spend
- Choose your customer and service. Describe the problem you solve and who would pay for it.
- Test local demand. Talk to potential customers and compare competing services before committing money.
- Build a complete budget. Include equipment, ongoing software, travel, marketing, and the local quotes you need for setup and insurance.
- Plan your schedule. Allow time for sales, preparation, administration, and travel as well as paid work.
- Research requirements. Use official federal, state, and local sources to confirm which rules apply to your business.
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Research Business Registration and Setup
The U.S. Small Business Administration’s guide walks you through business structure, registration, tax IDs, permits, a business bank account and insurance.
Use it alongside your blueprint, which explains the requirements for your type of work. Check local rules and complete required setup and insurance before taking paid work.
Build Your Business Website
GoDaddy Websites + Marketing is one beginner-friendly option for your domain, website and hosting.
Build Your Own WebsiteWatch GoDaddy’s beginner video course ↗Start with the pages your customers need.
Register your domain name—the address customers type to find you—and manage your website in the same GoDaddy account. Hosting is included with Websites + Marketing, so you do not need a separate hosting purchase.
Start with your services, the area you serve, a few suitable photos and a clear way to contact you. Use the website copy in your blueprint’s Forms & Marketing Pack as a starting point.
Explore GoDaddy Website Builder ↗Before you buy: A paid website is optional when starting out. Check plan features, domain charges, renewal prices and email or other extras. A domain may cost extra or be included for an introductory period. Other providers are also available.