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Business startup decision checklist

Work through these checks with your own evidence. Note what is confirmed, what is an estimate, and what you still need to find out.

1. Name the customer and the problem they will pay to solve.
2. Speak to prospective buyers before signing a lease.
3. Collect dated supplier, rent and equipment quotes.
4. Separate one-time setup costs from monthly running costs.
5. Allow for working capital, losses and slower-than-expected sales.
6. Check required permits with the relevant authority.
7. Calculate contribution per sale and a conservative break-even point.
8. Record the assumptions you still need to validate.
9. Set a small demand test and a clear stop/go decision.
10. Choose a guide for industry context or a custom plan for your own figures.

Use this as a preparation aid. Check current requirements directly with the responsible organisation.