Choosing a business structure: LLC, S corp, or sole proprietorship?
Your structure shapes your taxes, your liability, and how you can raise money. Compare the main options and pick the one that fits your plans.
New businesses have a lot of decisions to make early on. This guide breaks the journey into three stages so you can take it one step at a time. Wherever you are, you don't have to figure it out alone.
before you open
1. Plan your business
Get the foundations right: what you're building, how it's structured, and how you'll pay for it.
Read the guide
Write a business plan
Turn your idea into a roadmap that guides decisions and helps you secure funding.
Project costs and secure funding
Know the start-up costs to plan for before you open your doors.
Research your market
Learn how to run a competitor analysis and find your place in the market.
Pick the right insurance policy
The right coverage protects your business financially and legally.
the first six months
2. Launch your business
You're open. Now set up the systems and team that keep you on solid ground.
Build the best budget
Financial forecasting that keeps your small business on solid footing.
Financial records to keep
When money is tight there's little room for error. Keep the records that matter.
Build a good company culture
Five elements that help you attract and keep the talent you need.
Six months in? You may be ready
Take the next step: BBB Accreditation
Once your business has been operating for six months or more, you can apply to become a BBB Accredited Business and put the Seal to work for you.
Get BBB Accredited
See why the Seal matters, confirm you qualify, and walk through the application, now all on one page.
Already BBB Accredited?
Put the Seal to work. Here's what to do next to make the most of your Accreditation.
reach customers
3. Grow your business
With a track record behind you, focus on reaching more customers and earning their trust.
The power of customer reviews
Show customers you're trustworthy and transparent, and turn reviews into growth.
Write engaging social media
Quick tips for writing social posts that get noticed and get results.
Build a website that customers trust
Design a site that earns confidence and turns visitors into customers.
BBB's Code of Advertising
Advertise honestly and avoid common marketing mistakes with BBB's code.
Keep growing with BBB
Tools and resources for every stage of your business.