How to Start a Business for $1,000

Creativity trumps cash when looking to launch, says Startup Experts at Bizlaunch.ca. Instead of looking for another job, unemployed Canadians should consider starting their own small business. But becoming ‘the boss’ today could have more to do with your creativity with money, then the amount in your wallet - it’s in how and where you spend it.

Toronto, Canada, June 23, 2010 --(PR.com)-- Assuming you want to launch a service-based business (like 75 percent of current Canadian small businesses) and already own a working computer, with $1000 to spend invest it wisely in the following:

$99 to register a business name. Most small businesses in Canada start as sole proprietorships registered with the government. Choose a good business name and register it to obtain your Master Business License, which you can use to open a bank account.

$12 to open a commercial bank account. Separate your business and personal affairs – otherwise you’ll create an accounting nightmare. You’ll also be able to accept payments made to your business name which looks more professional.

$200 for graphic design. Your brand begins with a memorable business name, a catchy slogan and an attractive logo, all designed together to create your business identity. Hire a freelance professional designer and negotiate a good price.

$50 for 250 two-colour business cards. Your business card may be the only marketing piece your prospect sees so invest in good quality card stock.
$15 to register a domain name. Choose a simple one or two-word domain name that is memorable and clearly communicates what your business does. If available, grab both the dot ca and dot com addresses.

$20 monthly on a website. A website lets your prospects check you out 24 hours a day. Everyone needs a basic website for credibility, and it should be built before you print those business cards. Go online to find a do-it-yourself website builder offering customizable design templates and hosting.

$67 monthly for a business telephone line, Internet access and voicemail bundle. Everyone you call will see your business name in the call display, which looks more professional than if you just use your home line. Business lines also contribute to your marketing because they are listed in both the White and Yellow Page directories.

$150 for a smartphone. Create a competitive advantage by responding immediately to any customer inquiries by phone or email, no matter where you are.

$200 on business clothes and a hair stylist. You are your business brand, so you must look sharp while you’re out there drumming up customers.

$100 to register for five networking events. Find out which events your prospects attend and plan to be there. Rehearse your 30-second introduction, listen more than you talk, take detailed notes…and bring breath mints.

$50 for office supplies. Stock up on paper, ink, pens, pencils, file folders, sticky notes or whatever else your business needs to get organized.

$0 on a Media Release. Write something newsworthy about your business and send it to your local newspaper, radio station and TV station. Follow up with each media contact to get them interested in doing a story about your business, what you do for customers or how you’ll change the world.

Earmark any remaining dollars for transportation and coffee. If you have more time than money to spend, use it to get out there and meet with potential customers, suppliers or colleagues. You build a business by building relationships.

For further information and free webinars contact Roger Pierce at www.BizLaunch.ca.

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Bizlaunch
Amanda Sutton
705-791-7209
www.bizlaunch.ca
1-416-581-8880
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