BUSINESS START UP

BUSINESS STARTUP ESSENTIALS

1. Business Idea Validation

Define your niche and unique selling point (USP)
Conduct market research (demand, competitors, location)
Identify your target audience (age, habits, spending power)

2. Business Plan Creation

Executive summary
Product or service description
Market analysis
Marketing & sales plan
Operational plan
Financial projections (1–3 years)

3. Brand Identity Development

Business name
Logo design
Brand colors & typography
Tagline or slogan
Brand book or visual guidelines

4. Legal & Government Requirements

Register your business name (in Canada: NUANS, provincial registries)
Choose a structure (sole proprietorship, corporation, partnership)
Apply for a business number and tax accounts (CRA)
Register for HST/GST if needed
Apply for permits/licenses (health, zoning, food service, etc.)

5. Financing Your Startup

Personal capital
Bank loans or credit lines
Government grants (e.g., Futurpreneur Canada, Starter Company Plus)
Angel investors or family/friends

6. Business Setup

Location scouting or lease negotiations
Renovations/interior setup
Purchase of equipment and inventory
Internet, POS system, tools

7. Hiring & Training

Identify staffing needs
Create job descriptions
Draft employment contracts
Train based on SOPs or a business manual

8. Marketing Launch Plan

Create marketing collaterals (flyers, social media, posters)
Build a website or Google My Business profile
Set up social media (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)
Offer launch-day promos
Collect and showcase testimonials

9. Day-to-Day Operations Plan

Finalize supplier agreements
Set up inventory and ordering systems
Develop opening and closing routines
Manage cash flow daily