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Seeing your great ideas come to life and turning your passion into a successful business can be exciting. But if you’re ready to make your business dreams a reality, how do you know where to start? At the Federation of Small Businesses, we’ve put together this handy guide to help you take the first steps towards becoming your own boss.

From finances and legal paperwork to business plans and marketing, you’ll learn step-by-step how to start a small business. Get it right from day one with advice and guidance from industry experts.

In this guide:

  • Doing your research
  • Decide on your structure
  • Brand your business
  • Write your business plan
  • Figure out your finances
  • Work out where you’re working from
  • Set up your technology
  • Market your business

Further Reading: Writing SMART Goals

A great follow-up piece to our How to Start a Business guide is our article on writing SMART goals for your small business. It offers practical advice on creating clear and actionable goals to help you stay focused and achieve success. Learn more about SMART goals and how to write them here.

 

More resources from the Federation of Small Businesses

How to prepare a cash flow forecast
Article Thu, 23 January 2025

How to prepare a cash flow forecast

Keep track of your income and expenses with AAT's guide to cash flow forecasts.

Strategies for scaling your small business in 2025
Article Wed, 22 January 2025

Strategies for scaling your small business in 2025

Learn how to scale your small business in 2025 with strategies for growth, partnerships, hiring, marketing, funding, and cash flow management.

Eight benefits of a cyber security policy
Article Wed, 22 January 2025

Eight benefits of a cyber security policy

Learn the benefits of a cyber security policy for small businesses, and why it should be thorough, up-to-date and fit for purpose.