Where to next? Tools and guides for your business
Now that you’re in business, you want to stay there. Xero’s got resources and solutions to help.
Free resources for new businesses
Guides
Handy tips and tricks to help you in your new life as a business owner.
Business planning templates
Choose between a 1-page or long-form template and get going.
Business trends report
Get stat-packed insights into the world of small business.
Tech solutions for small businesses
Xero accounting software
You’ll be surprised by how much of your financial admin can be automated.
Xero Payroll with Gusto
Take the stress out of payday
Apps for everything else
Find apps for ecommerce, inventory, POS and more.
Talk to the experts
Need an accountant or bookkeeper? Find one in our directory.
Download the guide to starting a business
Learn how to start a business, from ideation to launch. Fill out the form to receive this guide as a PDF.
Disclaimer
Xero does not provide accounting, tax, business or legal advice. This guide has been provided for information purposes only. You should consult your own professional advisors for advice directly relating to your business or before taking action in relation to any of the content provided.
1. Research your idea
Your business idea is clearly inspired. But it helps to check you’re not the only one who thinks so.
2. Write a business plan
It helps to map your way from having a genius idea to a real business. Your plans don’t even have to be long.
3. Do a budget
You’ll need a rough financial plan so let’s estimate costs vs. sales, and figure out your break-even point.
4. Set prices
Work out what you need to charge to cover costs. And choose a pricing strategy that works for your business.
5. Choose a business structure
Will you be a sole proprietor, a partnership, or a company? And what's the difference anyway?
6. Sort your startup accounting
Get a few things right at the start and you’ll be sweet when it comes to tax time. Let’s demystify accounting.
7. Register your business
Find out who you have to tell about your business. And check to see if your industry is regulated.
8. Create a website
Learn what goes into a website. It’s simple and a great way to get discovered.
9. Get extra support
Once you’ve learned how to start a business, you’ll want help running it. Check Xero’s guides and templates.
10. What starting a business looks like
A Xero survey of 1,000 North American startups reveals why and how they started their businesses.
Start using Xero for free
Access Xero features for 30 days, then decide which plan best suits your business.