Online business setup

Planning across legal, technical, marketing domains.

10 steps across 1 sections

1. Steps Guide

  • Validate idea — Research demand, audience, competitors
  • Business plan — Summary, analysis, financials
  • Choose structure — LLC, S-Corp, sole proprietorship
  • Register business — State filing. IRS EIN
  • Business bank account — Separate finances
  • Licenses and permits — State/city specific
  • Ecommerce platform — Shopify, WooCommerce
  • Domain name — Memorable, brandable
  • Build website — Professional, mobile, secure payments
  • Payment processing — Stripe, PayPal, Square

Common Mistakes

  • Skipping validation
  • Not separating finances
  • Ignoring legal
  • Overbuilding before testing
  • No acquisition strategy

Pro Tips

  • MVP to test demand
  • Dropshipping avoids inventory
  • Business email for credibility
  • Privacy policy from day one
  • Reinvest early profits

Sources

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