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How do I start a business on my own?
I am currently in university taking my bachelor's degree in Finance. I enjoy attending Business Management classes because they impact me with the knowledge and skills of how to handle businesses in the future if not today. During my free time, I love to read inspirational books like "Think and Grow Rich" just to mention but a few.
Thank you for your time.
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Aimee’s Answer
I would start within your university. The University likely has a student chapter for Student Entrepreneurs. Most definitely take advantage of such opportunities. Even if you are just at the idea phase or even thinking about starting a business, it is insightful to gain knowledge from experts or people at every phase of the business start-up process. People and experienced entrepreneurs (with LOTS of connections) are willing to share advice and information.
I'm thinking about starting my own consulting business. I searched online on Meetup or Eventbrite for my specific topic (ex: healthcare) and found some free events. I found a "Founders and Funders Pitch Event," ironically hosted by my alma mater. I had no idea what to expect, but it was very much worth it! I made some great connections and got some great information. Everyone was way ahead of me in the process. These folks already had an app, website, service, business, product, etc. created and were pitching it to obtain funds. There were lots of experts and wealthy entrepreneurs there. But it gave me a lot of opportunities to network with like-minded people.
Check out your state's "Small Business Development Center." https://www.sbdctexas.org/ Many states want to promote and grow small businesses. There may be a regional office for your area as well. They can help you with a business plan and contacts for marketing, legal aspects, networking, etc. They may be able to help you with other contacts or even grants.
It's important to be specific about your business and avoid being too broad. Narrow down your focus. Be Humble. Everyone started with the idea phase. One day you will have 100% confidence in your idea/plan, then next day 0%, so be kind to yourself.
I'm thinking about starting my own consulting business. I searched online on Meetup or Eventbrite for my specific topic (ex: healthcare) and found some free events. I found a "Founders and Funders Pitch Event," ironically hosted by my alma mater. I had no idea what to expect, but it was very much worth it! I made some great connections and got some great information. Everyone was way ahead of me in the process. These folks already had an app, website, service, business, product, etc. created and were pitching it to obtain funds. There were lots of experts and wealthy entrepreneurs there. But it gave me a lot of opportunities to network with like-minded people.
Check out your state's "Small Business Development Center." https://www.sbdctexas.org/ Many states want to promote and grow small businesses. There may be a regional office for your area as well. They can help you with a business plan and contacts for marketing, legal aspects, networking, etc. They may be able to help you with other contacts or even grants.
It's important to be specific about your business and avoid being too broad. Narrow down your focus. Be Humble. Everyone started with the idea phase. One day you will have 100% confidence in your idea/plan, then next day 0%, so be kind to yourself.
Updated
Scott’s Answer
Hey Jeff,
Starting your own business while navigating university life can be a bit of a juggling act, but it's also an amazing opportunity for growth. I'll give you some steps to help you out, but keep in mind, it's important to find a balance between your studies, personal life, and your entrepreneurial aspirations. Don't forget to take care of yourself, manage your time wisely, and make sure you're not burning out. It's totally okay to take breaks and ask for help when you need it.
Here are some steps to get you started:
Find Your Niche: Your passion for finance and interest in business management are fantastic starting points. Reflect on what truly excites you and where your skills lie. Your journey will be much smoother if you're genuinely passionate about what you're doing.
Keep It Real: While reading inspirational books like "Think and Grow Rich" is great for motivation, remember that success in business often comes from hard work, resilience, and practical strategies. Don't expect overnight success, but stay committed to your goals.
Start Small: With university commitments, you'll likely have limited time and resources. Consider starting with a small, manageable project or a side hustle that you can gradually grow over time. This allows you to gain experience and learn without overwhelming yourself.
Learn as You Go: Don't feel like you need to have all the answers from the beginning. Embrace the learning process and be open to feedback and new ideas along the way. Every setback is an opportunity to learn and improve.
Use Your Resources: Take advantage of the resources available to you as a university student. Whether it's networking with professors and peers, attending workshops or competitions, or accessing funding opportunities, make the most of what your university has to offer.
Starting your own business while navigating university life can be a bit of a juggling act, but it's also an amazing opportunity for growth. I'll give you some steps to help you out, but keep in mind, it's important to find a balance between your studies, personal life, and your entrepreneurial aspirations. Don't forget to take care of yourself, manage your time wisely, and make sure you're not burning out. It's totally okay to take breaks and ask for help when you need it.
Here are some steps to get you started:
Scott recommends the following next steps:
Anthony Kofi Hene-Amoah
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Anthony’s Answer
Hello!
Please, note the following, concerning how to start a business on your own :-
1. Have a kind of business in your mind.
2. Think of that kind of business.
3. Knowledge in the business.
4. Favourable marketing conditions for the business.
5. Location of the business.
6. Finances/Capital.
Best regards.
Please, note the following, concerning how to start a business on your own :-
1. Have a kind of business in your mind.
2. Think of that kind of business.
3. Knowledge in the business.
4. Favourable marketing conditions for the business.
5. Location of the business.
6. Finances/Capital.
Best regards.
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to hear that you would like to become an entrepreneur. Have you thought about what industry you would like to start your business?
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what industry you have interest or you have strength
2. Do some analysis on the industry, eg entry criteria, completion status, any alternative or substitute, etc
3. Study the industry related courses and management courses
4. Work in the industry some time to understand the operating model and establish people network
5.. Start the business online if possible
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what industry you have interest or you have strength
2. Do some analysis on the industry, eg entry criteria, completion status, any alternative or substitute, etc
3. Study the industry related courses and management courses
4. Work in the industry some time to understand the operating model and establish people network
5.. Start the business online if possible
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Updated
Luke’s Answer
That's fantastic that you're interested in starting your own business! Your finance background combined with your interest in business management gives you a great foundation. Here's a roadmap to get you started:
1. Identify a Business Idea:
Find a Gap in the Market: Look for problems people face or unmet needs in a particular industry. Can you offer a product or service that solves these problems?
Align with Your Interests: Consider your skills, passions, and experiences. What are you good at? What are you enthusiastic about?
2. Validate Your Idea:
Market Research: Research your target audience and the competitive landscape. Is there a demand for your product or service? Who are your competitors?
Talk to Potential Customers: Get feedback on your idea from people who might actually buy from you. This will help you refine your concept and ensure it meets a real need.
3. Write a Business Plan:
This will solidify your concept, identify potential challenges, and develop a roadmap for success. Your finance background will be helpful in crafting financial projections.
4. Secure Funding (if needed):
Bootstrap (use your own savings): This is a good option if you have a low-cost business idea.
Look for loans or grants: There are various government programs and financial institutions that support small businesses.
Consider crowdfunding platforms: These platforms allow you to raise capital from a large number of people.
5. Register Your Business:
Choose a business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.).
Obtain necessary licenses and permits.
6. Build Your Brand:
Develop a strong brand identity that resonates with your target audience.
Create a marketing plan to reach your ideal customers.
Here are some additional tips based on your interests:
Business Management Knowledge: Utilize the knowledge you're gaining in your classes! Learn about operations, marketing, finance, and human resources.
Inspirational Books: While motivational books can be great, focus on practical resources too. Look for books or courses on specific aspects of starting a business, like marketing or finance.
1. Identify a Business Idea:
Find a Gap in the Market: Look for problems people face or unmet needs in a particular industry. Can you offer a product or service that solves these problems?
Align with Your Interests: Consider your skills, passions, and experiences. What are you good at? What are you enthusiastic about?
2. Validate Your Idea:
Market Research: Research your target audience and the competitive landscape. Is there a demand for your product or service? Who are your competitors?
Talk to Potential Customers: Get feedback on your idea from people who might actually buy from you. This will help you refine your concept and ensure it meets a real need.
3. Write a Business Plan:
This will solidify your concept, identify potential challenges, and develop a roadmap for success. Your finance background will be helpful in crafting financial projections.
4. Secure Funding (if needed):
Bootstrap (use your own savings): This is a good option if you have a low-cost business idea.
Look for loans or grants: There are various government programs and financial institutions that support small businesses.
Consider crowdfunding platforms: These platforms allow you to raise capital from a large number of people.
5. Register Your Business:
Choose a business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.).
Obtain necessary licenses and permits.
6. Build Your Brand:
Develop a strong brand identity that resonates with your target audience.
Create a marketing plan to reach your ideal customers.
Here are some additional tips based on your interests:
Business Management Knowledge: Utilize the knowledge you're gaining in your classes! Learn about operations, marketing, finance, and human resources.
Inspirational Books: While motivational books can be great, focus on practical resources too. Look for books or courses on specific aspects of starting a business, like marketing or finance.