Ideas are everywhere. Successful entrepreneurs know that not every idea is a good business opportunity. Before you bet the ranch on your idea, take the time to research who will buy your product or service and what competition you will face.
- 10 Steps to Start Your Business (Entrepreneur Magazine)
- Evaluate Your Idea checklist (Princeton Creative Research)
- Buying a Franchise (Entrepreneur Magazine)
- Franchise Opportunities (International Franchise Association)
- Buying an Existing Business (SBA)
Research
While preparing your startup endeavor, be sure to research and understand the market that you will be entering. Use the Resource Navigator to find programs that provide market research assistance. Local libraries are also a great place to start. Search the West Virginia Library Network to find the public library nearest to you!
Classes
Many support organizations have classes and workshops for all types of entrepreneurs. Be sure to explore the Calendar of Events to find an event near you.
Counseling
The West Virginia Small Business Development Centers (WV SBDC) offer no charge one-on-one business assistance and have a statewide network of business coaches ready to assist entrepreneurs. To find the nearest WV SBDC office and other business coaching and counseling resources, please use the Resource Navigator.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
The IRS provides a free, downloadable primer on starting your business and keeping records. Making sure you get this correct up front at the beginning will save you a lot of time and headaches later on.
IRS Publication 583, Starting a Business and Keeping Records
