Start with a 1-page business plan
A short plan helps you lock in the idea, and iron out the rough bits. You can make it longer later.
Download Xero’s 1-page business plan template.
Profile your customer
List key characteristics like:
• where they are
• what they care about
• how much they spend
This will help you refine your product and your marketing.
Check out the competition
Figure out who’s competing for the same customer and learn from them. Why have they succeeded? And how could you be better? List their:
Weaknesses
Why you can win.
Strengths
Why winning will be hard.
Do your numbers
Plot your projected costs on a timeline. Do the same with projected income. You'll run at a loss when you first start a business. How will you make up the shortfall?
Most Australian businesses get their money from:
31% owner’s savings • 19% bank loans • 11% friends and family • 22% credit cards
Speak to a pro
Check your numbers with a bookkeeper, accountant, or a business mentor. They know how to start a business and will call out gaps in your thinking.
Find an advisor
Register your business
Register for an Australian Business Number (ABN) and see if you need any special permits at the Business Registration Service.
After starting a business
So now you know how to start a business, but what comes next? Lots of questions, that’s what. Keep your advisors and mentors close. And look for helpful articles in our small business guides.
