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The Ultimate Idea to Launch Checklist for New Entrepreneurs

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Author: Kae Gruner (Lawyer + Founder of Start Up Heart Up)

Friends,

When I became an intellectual property lawyer, I started seeing friends slip into my DM’s to ask questions about protecting and pursuing their business ideas. I realized quickly that not only did I have the information they needed, I genuinely LOVED talking to them about their new business dreams. I also realized quickly that almost everybody I meet has a business idea lurking in the back of their mind: “one day I’ll open a boutique”, “one day I’ll start meal delivery business,” or “one day I’ll sell these knitted hats instead of just gifting them”…

Do YOU have a new business idea but not sure where to start?

If so, then darling, have no fear! I have put together a master “big picture” checklist of all the tasks you will likely want to complete prior to launching a new business. I create this list from years of experience helping and observing new entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground.

Before we jump into the checklist, do you NEED to check off every single item PRIOR to business launch?

  • No, definitely not… This list was created to span across industries and different types of business models. There may be some items on here that you could skip… BUT I did mindfully craft and curate this list specifically to avoid over-including items, i.e., I promise you that it’s NOT full of fluff.

  • Every task below has a purpose and unique function for building a strong business foundation. (If you want to know what that purpose and function is for any of these, feel free to email me at hello@startupheartup.com!)

  • Do feel free, however, to complete the tasks either (1) out of order and/or (2) any time before / during / after your business launch. You just kinda-sorta-need to get this stuff done around the early stages of starting a new business in order to build a strong business foundation.

  • P.S. a “strong business foundation” is the difference between a hobby and profitable business… if you’re serious about entrepreneurship, you should take this checklist seriously as well!

THE (ULTIMATE!)

IDEA TO LAUNCH

CHECKLIST

[ ] Research & develop your business idea:

  1. Develop your idea into a product

  2. Identify potential competitors &
    customers

  3. Perform market research

[ ] Identify your intellectual property (IP):

  1. File/register for IP protection

  2. Trademark, copyright, patent, etc.

  3. Make a list of confidential information

  4. Put CDA's in place before disclosing


[ ] Start writing a business plan:

  1. Write your Mission & Values

  2. Detail scope & strategy of the business

  3. Calculate the estimated profits & losses

[ ] Consult with experts or mentors:

  1. Identify where you lack time or skills

  2. Financial, legal, technical experts

  3. Manufacturers or developers

  4. Key service or software providers

[ ] Draft business policies & contracts:

  1. Limit your risks and liability potential

  2. Protect your personal and business
    assets

  3. CDA's, Sales Agreement, Services, etc.

[ ] Identify & execute business formalities:

  1. Register your business

  2. File for EIN

  3. Open business bank account

  4. Obtain applicable permits/licenses

[ ] Plan content & marketing strategy:

  1. Create a cohesive brand image

  2. Select various channels for marketing

  3. Create original content

  4. Identify strategic partners

    Starting a new business can be intimidating, scary even! But with the right framework, a little bit of discipline, and a whole lot of heart, I am confident that you can be successful in entrepreneurship. So, are you ready to start checking off these tasks for your own new business ideas?

    Download our FREE fillable Business Success Plan template (.PDF)

    (which includes this Idea to Launch checklist and in a much prettier format!). Good luck, friends! I believe in you and your business dreams, and sincerely hope that you do too!

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