Small Business Resource Guide

Considering Starting a New Business in Butler County?

The decision to start a business is a big step to take there is no way to eliminate all the risks associated with starting a small business. However, you can improve your chances of success with good planning and preparation. This is where we can help. The information provided in this guide is provided as a resource tool to assist with starting a new business. For additional assistance, contact Butler County Economic Development at (316) 322-4325 or (800) 940-6017.

Please note: The information contained herein is provided for discussion and educational purposes only, and should not be relied on as a substitute for legal advice. Please consult the appropriate professionals for further clarification and for assistance when making legal decisions.

Steps to Success

• Validate License, Registration, and Permits
• Ignite your Business Plan
• Select Business Structure or Organization
• Identify Possible Site Locations
• Options in Financing
• Notable Assistance, Resources, and Links

Getting Started

Before starting out, list your reasons for wanting to go into business. Some of the most common reasons to consider are listed below:

You want to be your own boss. You want financial independence.

You want creative freedom. You want to fully use your skills and knowledge.

Next you need to determine what business is right for you:

What do I like to do with my time? What technical skills have I learned or developed? What do others say I am good at?

How much time do I have to run a successful business? Do I have any hobbies or interests that are marketable?

Then you should identify the niche your business will fill:

Is my idea practical and will it fill a need? What is my competition? Can I deliver a better quality service?

What is my business advantage over existing firms? Can I create a demand for my business?

The final step before developing your plan is the pre-business checklist:

What business am I interested in starting? What services or products will I sell? Where will I be located? What skills and experience do I bring to the business? What will be my legal structure?

What will I name by business? What equipment or supplies will I need? What insurance coverage will be needed? What financing will I need? What are my resources? How will I compensate myself?

Answering these preliminary steps will help you create a focused, well-researched business plan that should serve as a blueprint. It should detail how the business will be operated, managed, and capitalized.