Starting a new business takes a lot of planning. There’s a lot involved if you want your business to grow and succeed. This checklist for starting a new business will help you get started.

Background work

  • Analyze your business idea by doing a SWOT analysis
  • Assess your strengths and weaknesses as an entrepreneur
  • Establish business and personal goals
  • Assess your financial resources and identify potential sources of funds
  • Identify the financial risks
  • Determine the start-up costs
  • Decide on your business location
  • Do a thorough market research
  • Identify your customers
  • Identify your competitors
  • Develop a marketing plan

Business transactions

  • Select a lawyer and an accountant
  • Choose a form of organization (Private Business Corporation, Private Limited Company, for example)
  • Create your business (register your company name, incorporate the business, etc.)
  • Prepare a business plan
  • Select a banker and set up a business checking account
  • Apply for business loans and grants (if applicable)
  • Establish a line of credit (if possible)
  • Select an insurance agent and obtain business insurance

First steps

  • Prepare corporate brochures
  • Build a website
  • Set-up corporate email accounts
  • Get business cards
  • Obtain a lease
  • Line up suppliers (if applicable)
  • Get furniture and equipment
  • Obtain business licenses or permits (if applicable)
  • Register with NSSA to get SSR number (if applicable)
  • Register with ZIMRA to get a BP & PAYE number (if applicable)
  • Join a professional organization or network
  • Choose a starting date
  • Prepare and deploy your communication/marketing strategy
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