Starting a new business is no walk in the park.

There’s a reason why roughly half of new small businesses fail within the first five years. However, statistics should not deter you from pursuing your goals. Just make sure you’ve done your homework and understand what you’re getting yourself into. Look at these nine things you’ll need to start a business.

1. Develop a business plan

Create a detailed and well-researched strategy before you start seeking financing or combining resources. This strategy should include an explanation of your company, including what makes you think it will succeed. You should have a detailed overview of the services you’ll provide and who your company will target in this section. After that, you’ll want to offer your market analysis, which will require research. Is the industry expanding or contracting? What is the state of the competition in your region, and how will you stand out or outperform it?

Next, explain how you intend to succeed to possible funders:

• Who will make up your team?
• What are the services and/or goods that you provide?
• What are your projections for growth?

To begin running a business, you must first create a successful plan and persuade financers that you will be a suitable investment based primarily on your business plan.

2. Access to capital

Any investor or lender who is willing to consider financing your new business will want to examine your business plan. However, there are a few choices available to you when it comes to obtaining financing to establish and maintain a business.

The most traditional method is applying for a bank’s business loan from business bank accounts. The interest rates on these loans are modest and fixed. Furthermore, regardless of what occurs in your firm, the bank simply owns the loan, not any stock or cash. However, if you have bad or no credit, securing a bank loan might be tough. They are also frequently backed up with assets, like your home.

Private investors or investment organizations are another possibility. Someone who sincerely believes in your company concept. They might be a venture capitalist, a colleague, or a family member. Shareholder groups are composed of affluent individuals or organizations who will put their money where their mouth is if they believe a fledgling company has worth or promise. The disadvantage of hiring shareholders is that they frequently invest in new businesses in return for stock. Investors will always have a hold on their percentage, even if your company grows to produce millions of dollars.

3. Legal services

When you own a business, you become more exposed to the law. You must follow a number of laws, regulations, policies, and legal requirements. Everything from employing personnel and filing your taxes falls under this category. It’s a good idea to get an attorney on hand to review staff benefits, contractual agreements with other firms or private security contractors, and lawsuit protection.

4. Insurance, permits, and licenses

When you operate a new business, you must ensure that your operations are completely legal. This entails getting a business license within the area, and any permissions or certificates that your particular sort of business may require. Also, be certain that both you and your company are completely insured. Based on your specific business and operations, you may require several forms of insurance.

5. A team

Running a new business is difficult. You might not want to tackle this by yourself. Consider assembling a team of dependable individuals that can assist you in achieving your goals. This might range from a small board of advisers to assist you in exploring and solving challenges, or it might be enlisting the assistance of a company partner to help spread the workload.

6. A recognizable brand

Consumers must be able to recognize a company’s image. The aspects which build your brand include your company name, logo, and general public image. People remember your products or services, how you treat your customers, and the quality of your company. The development of a sound marketing plan and the active engagement of customers also aids in the creation of a distinctive brand.

7. Marketing strategy

When it comes to marketing, the difference between having a new business and having a successful one is primarily determined by your advertising strategies.

Digital marketing is a good way to start out. There was a reason for this: 92% of people purchase online. You’re missing money if your new business doesn’t have a strong web presence. Your website and social media channels will allow people to locate you online. Even learning how to leverage simple SEO tools to your benefit can go a long way.

8. Financial advisor or accountant

Owning a business necessitates a solid grasp of money and budgeting. Many business owners attempt it on their own, but few succeed. Consider employing an accountant to handle the majority of your accounting, tax preparation, and financial management. A financial advisor can help if you need more assistance with setting a budget or a lengthy financial strategy.

9. Exceptional business ethics

Finally, starting a new business requires a lot of time, effort, and commitment. If you want to own a business, you must be willing to put in a lot of time without an immediate payoff. You must maintain a high level of consistency in your work ethic in order to grow your new business and build a solid reputation.