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Evaluating Your Business Idea FAQ

Questions you should ask yourself before you start your own business.

Questions

Answer

How do I evaluate and develop a business idea?

  • Determine if it's the right type of business. (To learn more about choosing the right type of business for you, as well as how to research and evaluate your business idea, read Start the Right New Business for You.)
  • Use a break-even analysis to determine if your idea can make money. (For more information on performing a break-even analysis and determining the financial viability of your idea, see Will My Business Make Money?)
  • Investigate business financing. (For more information, see the Business Financing FAQ.)
  • Contemplate a basic marketing plan. (For more information, see Marketing Without Advertising, by Michael Phillips and Salli Raspberry (Nolo).)
  • Write a business plan, including a profit/loss forecast and a cash flow analysis. (For more information on writing a business plan, read Business Plan Basics.)

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