Startup Saturdays
Starting your first business can feel like standing at the edge of a mountain—exciting, intimidating, and full of possibilities. When I worked as a business advisor for the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), we helped hundreds of new entrepreneurs in that exact position. We handed them a small business startup checklist, reviewed funding options, and helped sketch out financials—but many still left feeling unsure of what steps to take next.
That’s exactly why I created this simplified version of the checklist. It’s short, strategic, and beginner-friendly—with just 16 core steps to help you move forward without the overwhelm.
Section 1: Business Validation – Before You Get Too Far Into the Weeds…
It’s tempting to dive into logo design or picking out business cards—but the truth is, none of that matters if your foundation isn’t solid. That’s why the first section of this small business startup checklist focuses on validation.
In fact, the first week of the 31-Day Business Startup Challenge is dedicated entirely to these steps. You’ll get guided exercises to define your problem, identify your audience, scan your market, and refine your idea before investing time or money into the wrong things.
1. Define the Problem You’re Solving
Every successful business starts with a clearly defined problem. If your offer doesn’t solve something specific, it becomes hard to explain, harder to sell, and nearly impossible to scale. Your first job is to identify the pain point you’re addressing. A good test? Try finishing this sentence: “My business helps people who struggle with ___.” If the answer is fuzzy or too broad, it’s time to dig deeper. A clear problem creates the foundation for a compelling offer, marketing strategy, and brand message.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
When I launched Backbone America, I wanted to solve a problem I saw constantly at the SBDC—new entrepreneurs were overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take. They had ideas but no real roadmap. I built the 31-Day Business Startup Challenge specifically to solve that gap: it helps first-time founders go from stuck to launched with structure, clarity, and daily action.
2. Identify Your Target Audience
Your business isn’t for everyone—and that’s a good thing. To gain momentum early, you need to focus on a specific group of people who actively want or need what you offer. Think about their demographics, goals, and pain points. Are they busy moms? Retired professionals? Creators with a side hustle? When you speak directly to one type of person, your messaging becomes more compelling and your offer more magnetic.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
I serve first-time founders who want to launch service-based businesses. They’re often balancing family, jobs, or both—and they don’t want to waste time guessing. They want a clear launch path and structure, not generic advice. That’s why every tool I’ve built—from the Business Launch Assessment to the Done-For-You Launch service—is designed with them in mind.
3. Do a Quick Market Scan
Before you build anything, validate that there’s real demand. That doesn’t mean your idea has to be brand-new—it just has to solve a problem people are already searching for. Use platforms like Google, Amazon, TikTok, Reddit, or even Facebook groups. What are people asking? What products or services already exist? Are there gaps you can fill or ways to improve what’s out there?
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
When I was shaping Backbone America, my research focused on the pain points first-time entrepreneurs were talking about online. I kept seeing the same concerns: not knowing where to start, not having enough time, or how to get clients. That insight helped me design tools like the 31-Day Startup Challenge around real struggles—not just theory—so people could move forward with confidence and clarity.
Even before that, I had proof of demand. While working at the SBDC, clients regularly told me I should go out on my own. After I left, people still came to me for advice—former clients, friends of friends, even total strangers. I became the go-to person in my circle for startup questions. I knew then: the need wasn’t theoretical. It was showing up in my inbox.
Section 2: Set Up the Basics – Don’t Skip the “Boring” Stuff
This is the part many new founders want to breeze through—or avoid altogether. But skipping the basics can lead to legal headaches, tax issues, or missed opportunities down the line. You don’t need to love paperwork, but you do need a solid foundation.
In Weeks 3 and 4 of the 31-Day Business Startup Challenge, we guide you through these foundational steps with clear checklists and structured action plans to keep the process simple and stress-free.
4. Choose a Business Structure
Most first-time founders choose between a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation. Each has pros and cons when it comes to taxes, liability, and cost. Sole proprietorships are easy to start but don’t protect your personal assets. LLCs are a popular middle ground for solo service businesses.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
When I launched Backbone America, I formed an LLC. It gave me liability protection while keeping setup simple. I didn’t need a board of directors or corporate bylaws—just a clear, professional structure that helped me grow with confidence.
5. Register Your Business Name
Once you’ve picked your name, make it official. Check with your state’s Secretary of State to confirm availability and file any necessary registrations. At the same time, secure your domain and social handles to ensure consistency across your brand.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
I often heard that small businesses are the backbone of America—and that idea stuck with me. I chose the name “Backbone America” to reflect structure, strength, and support for early-stage entrepreneurs who are building something from the ground up. Once it felt right, I registered the domain, filed the business name with the state, and locked in my social handles. That moment made the business feel real—not just an idea, but something official and rooted in purpose.
6. Apply for an EIN
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is free through the IRS and essential for most businesses—even if you don’t plan to hire employees. You’ll need it to open a bank account, file taxes, and establish vendor relationships.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
Getting my EIN was quick and painless, and it immediately unlocked things like business banking and payment processing. It was also one of the first “official” steps that mentally shifted me from hobbyist to business owner.
7. Open a Business Bank Account
Keeping your business and personal finances separate protects your assets, makes tax time easier, and gives your business legitimacy. You’ll need your EIN and formation documents (your business license) to get started.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
One of my non-negotiables from the start was keeping my business finances completely separate from my personal accounts. Yes, I had to contribute some owner equity early on—but those transactions were labeled properly, and it made all the difference. I could clearly see income, expenses, and profit without digging through personal charges. It made tracking cash flow much easier and gave me the financial clarity I needed to make informed decisions. Opening a dedicated business account also laid the foundation for clean financial records—something I always emphasized when working with SBDC clients.
If you’re seeking more personalized support, the Business Launch Pro service offers in-depth assistance. This includes comprehensive market research, competitor analysis, and a tailored business planning to help you establish a solid foundation for your venture.
Section 3: Build Your Brand Foundation – Look Legit Without Overthinking It
You don’t need a full-blown brand guide, expensive design package, or custom website to get started. What you do need is a professional, cohesive presence that helps people trust you—especially if you’re building an online business.
If you’re seeking more personalized support, the Business Branding Suite offers comprehensive assistance. This includes services like crafting your brand identity, developing a cohesive visual presence, and creating messaging that resonates with your target audience. It’s designed to help you establish a strong, consistent brand that aligns with your business goals.
8. Buy a Domain and Set Up a Business Email
A domain gives your business a professional home base online, even if you’re not building a full website yet. Register your domain and host through Google Domains, Namecheap or other service. Often business email accounts (like hello@yourbusiness.com) are included when you setup your website with your hosting package. Avoid using personal email accounts for business communication—it makes you look less credible and harder to track.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
Registering slategrey-goldfish-671885.hostingersite.com was one of my first official steps. In fact, Backbone America started as a business blog when I was working for the SBDC, long before it became an actual business. After I setup my WordPress site with my host provider, I was able to add emails for free.
9. Create a Simple Logo and Color Palette
Your brand doesn’t need to be fancy to be effective. Start with a clean, simple logo and 2–3 core brand colors. Use free tools like Canva to create a logo that looks professional and feels aligned with your brand’s tone. This will help you show up consistently on social media, in email signatures, and on future marketing materials.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
I created my first logo and color scheme using Canva. I didn’t overthink it—I just picked colors that felt strong, grounded, and trustworthy. Over time, I’ve refined it, but starting simple gave me enough to feel confident and consistent right out of the gate. Eventually, I got an independent eye and worked with a graphic designer to finalize the logo I’ve used for years.
10. Write a One-Liner
This is your elevator pitch—your business in one clear, compelling sentence. It should say who you help, what you help them do, and the result they can expect. A good one-liner helps you introduce your business clearly on your website, social media bio, and conversations without rambling.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
For Backbone America, my one-liner became: “I help first-time entrepreneurs launch automated businesses that create financial freedom.” That line shaped how I talked about my work everywhere, from Facebook posts to landing pages. It made me more confident in explaining what I do and helped ideal clients recognize they were in the right place.
Section 4: Prepare Product/Service Line – Start Simple, Sell Smart
At this stage, it’s all about getting something out the door that solves a problem and generates income. That doesn’t mean rushing or throwing together a dozen offers—it means being intentional. A focused offer, a sustainable price point, and a simple way to reach your ideal clients will give you a much stronger start than overcomplicating your launch.
In Weeks 2 of the 31-Day Business Startup Challenge, we help you define your offer, price it sustainably, and pick the marketing channels that match your bandwidth and audience.
11. Create One Clear Offer
Don’t try to launch with five packages or three tiers. Your first offer should solve one specific problem for one specific type of client. It should be easy to explain, easy to buy, and easy to deliver. You can expand later, but clarity is key when you’re starting out.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
My first offer wasn’t a full suite of services—it was the 31-Day Business Startup Challenge. It solved a very specific problem: helping first-time entrepreneurs get out of idea overload and into structured action. Keeping the offer focused helped me market it clearly and refine it quickly based on real feedback.
12. Set Your Price with Profit in Mind
It’s tempting to start low “just to get your first clients,” but undercharging sets the wrong tone and can drain your energy fast. Factor in your time, tools, taxes, and value. Your pricing should allow you to deliver well and still have a margin that supports your long-term goals.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
When I priced the 31-Day Business Startup Challenge, I didn’t just pick a number based on what others were charging. I looked at the real value it provides—the structure, accountability, and step-by-step clarity that saves new entrepreneurs weeks (or even months) of wasted time. I also considered the fact that this program is scalable. Unlike one-on-one coaching or done-for-you services, I don’t have to recreate the experience each time someone enrolls. That allowed me to price it affordably while still honoring the time, tools, and strategy that went into building it. The result is a high-impact program that delivers real results and supports my business growth.
13. Choose 1–2 Marketing Channels
You don’t need to be everywhere. Pick one or two platforms that your audience already uses—and that you’re willing to show up on consistently. Whether it’s email + Instagram, or Facebook + networking, consistency matters more than complexity.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
I started with email and Facebook. I already had a personal network there, and I knew my audience was active on the platform. As the business grew, I layered on more tools—but in the beginning, staying focused helped me build traction without burning out.
Section 5: Systems & Next Steps – Think Ahead, Even If It’s Simple
At some point, every founder hits a moment where things start to feel messy—client notes scattered in emails, missed follow-ups, or scrambling to remember what’s next. That’s where simple systems come in. You don’t need advanced automation or enterprise software to start building structure. What matters is having the right tools for where you are now.
You don’t need to automate everything from the start, but a little structure now can prevent hours of chaos later. If you’re wondering what to systemize first (and how), The Business Owner’s Guide to Automation walks you through the exact tools and processes I recommend for new entrepreneurs who want to save time without hiring a team.
14. Track Customers and Leads
Start with a simple system to keep track of everyone who shows interest in your business. That could be a Google Sheet, a basic CRM, or even a paper notebook—what matters is that you use it consistently. Later, you can move into tools like Zoho CRM, Airtable, or Notion to automate follow-ups and track engagement.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
My first lead tracker was the free version of Zoho CRM. It wasn’t fancy, but it helped me stay organized—tracking who signed up for what, who needed follow-up, and where people were in the process. I used it for over a year before upgrading to Zoho One, which included the full CRM plus additional apps that streamlined my operations. That gradual transition worked well for me because it allowed me to grow into the tech instead of overwhelming myself too early. Even a basic tool can bring clarity and consistency when used with intention.
15. Decide How You’ll Accept Payments
You don’t need a merchant account to get paid. Tools like Stripe, PayPal, Square, or even WooCommerce make it easy to start collecting payments with minimal setup. Choose the option that fits your audience and keeps things manageable as you grow.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
I started with a separate PayPal business account because it was familiar and easy to set up. It let me start accepting payments right away without needing to learn a new platform. Later, as my business grew and I began using WooCommerce, I added Stripe because of how seamlessly it integrates with WordPress. That combination gave me more flexibility—automating access to digital products, applying coupons, and tracking sales without manual steps. Starting simple allowed me to get going quickly, and scaling up was easy when the time came.
16. Schedule a Weekly CEO Hour
Even as a solo founder, you need time to work on the business, not just in it. Block an hour every week to review what’s working, check in on your goals, and make decisions about what’s next. Think of it as your weekly strategy session—because if you don’t run your business, it’ll start running you.
How I Applied This at Backbone America:
My CEO Hour happens in the morning, when my mind is fresh and I’m already thinking about business systems, content ideas, and what needs to move forward. I use that time to review ad performance, outline blog topics, check in on automation flows, and make strategic decisions that align with my long-term goals. It’s helped me stay focused and avoid the “busy but not productive” trap that so many founders fall into. Carving out that space weekly gives me a sense of control and direction—especially when everything else feels fast-paced.
Wrapping up the Small Business Startup Checklist
Starting a business doesn’t have to be a 50-step marathon. Use this small business startup checklist to focus on what matters most—getting your idea off the ground with clarity and confidence.
When I worked with first-time founders at the SBDC, I saw how helpful a basic checklist and a fill-in-the-blank business plan could be. But I also saw how many entrepreneurs wanted more hands-on help—someone to walk beside them as they built.
That’s exactly what I created the 31-Day Business Startup Challenge for. It’s a guided roadmap designed to help you get your idea out of your head and into the world—step-by-step, day-by-day. Want even more support? The Business Launch Pro is where I help you handle the heavy lifting.
