Business Essentials

Business Essentials for Setting Up a Business & Brand Development:

Business Foundation & Strategy (Business Creation)

1. Market Research & Analysis: Identify your target audience, understand their needs, and analyze the competitive landscape (competitor strengths/weaknesses).

2. Business Plan & Model: Write a formal plan outlining your mission, structure, financial projections, and operational roadmap (this is the blueprint for your business).

3. Legal Structure: Choose and register your legal business entity (e.g., Sole Proprietorship, LLC, S-Corp).

4. Financing Strategy: Determine startup costs, secure initial funding (loans, investment, self-funding), and open a dedicated business bank account.

5. Licenses, Permits, and Tax IDs: Obtain all necessary federal, state, and local licenses, permits, and an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

6. Product/Service Offering: Clearly define the specific product(s) or service(s) you will offer, including pricing and delivery methods.

Brand Identity & Assets (Brand Development)

7. Brand Strategy & Positioning: Define your brand's unique value proposition (UVP), mission, core values, and how you will be positioned against competitors.

8. Business Name & Tagline: Select a name that is memorable, reflective of your brand, and check for availability (legal and domain/social media). Create a concise, compelling tagline.

9. Visual Identity (The "Look"): Develop your core visual assets:

   • Logo Suite: Primary logo and variations (wordmark, icon).

   • Color Palette: Primary and secondary brand colors.

   • Typography: Approved font selections.

10. Verbal Identity (The "Voice"): Define your brand's personality, tone of voice (e.g., formal, casual, authoritative, friendly), and key messaging.

11. Brand Assets & Style Guide: Create branded documents (business cards, letterhead, invoice templates) and a comprehensive Brand Style Guide to ensure consistency across all touchpoints.

12. Digital Presence: Secure and launch foundational web assets:

    • Domain Name & Website: A professional online hub for your business.

    • Social Media Handles: Secure accounts on relevant platforms that match your brand name.