Step 1 - Market research will tell you if there’s an opportunity to turn your idea into a successful business. It’s a way to gather information about potential customers and businesses already operating in your area. Use that information to find a competitive advantage for your business.

Market research will help you learn how much your product will be desired, market size, competitors and how much customers are willing to pay for your product or service.

Step 2 - Write your business plan that talks about the problem you are solving, your mission, vision and revenue generating business model. Your business plan is the foundation of your business. It’s a roadmap for how to structure, run, and grow your new business. You’ll use it to convince people that working with you — or investing in your small business — is a smart choice.

• Create a business plan
• Build atleast 3 business models
• Develope a MVP
  

ZERU capture your ideas, put them on paper, and help with developing a minimum viable product (MVP).

Step 3 - Your business plan will help you figure out how much money you’ll need to start your business. Most new entrepreneurs don’t have that amount on hand, work together with your team to either raise or borrow the capital. There are more ways than ever to find the capital to start or even grow your small business.

• Smart Budgeting: Plan your startup costs and set a sustainable budget
• Funding Pathways: Explore loans, grants, or investors to raise the capital you need
• Cash Flow & Profit: Manage cash flow and maximize profitability for steady growth.

ZERU help secure and manage the resources needed to succeed.

Step 4 - Pick your business location Your business location is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Whether you’re setting up a brick-and-mortar business or launching an online store, the choices you make could affect your taxes, legal requirements, and revenue.

• Revenue Potential: Identify locations that maximize customer access and drive sales.
• Tax and Legal Considerations: Understand how different locations impact taxes, permits, and zoning requirements.
• Growth and Accessibility: Ensure your location supports scalability, logistics, and customer convenience.

ZERU guides you to a location that enhances your business success and sustainability.

Step 5 - Choosing a business structure  for your business will impact your business registration requirements, how much you pay in taxes, and your personal liability.

• Legal Compliance: Understand registration requirements for each structure.
• Tax Efficiency: Choose a structure that optimizes your tax responsibilities.
• Liability Protection: Protect personal assets based on your chosen structure.

ZERU ensures your structure aligns with your business goals for security and growth.

Step 6 - Choose your business name wisely. It’s not easy to pick the perfect name. Work with your team to brainstorm ideas that reflects your brand and captures your spirit. ZERU will help to make sure your business name isn’t already being used by someone else. Remember, your website domain name is also very important to help customers find you.

Step 7 - Register your business once you’ve picked the perfect business name. Protect your small business brand and idea by making it legal. Form a limited liability business to protect yourself. If you choose to do business under a name different than your own, you’ll need to register with the federal government, and your state government.

Step 8 - Get federal and state tax IDs. You will use your employer identification number (EIN) for important steps to start and grow your small business, like opening a bank account and paying taxes. Your EIN number is like a social security number for your business. Most states require you to get a State tax ID as well.

Step 9 - Get help understanding and apply for licenses, permits and certifications to keep your business running smoothly by staying legally compliant. Certifications, licenses, and permits will vary by industry, state, location, and other factors.

Step 10 - Finding the right small business bank is an important part of your financial strategy. A small business checking account is used to seperate your personal income from the business. It can help you handle legal, tax, and day-to-day issues. It’s easy to set one up if you have the right registrations and paperwork ready.