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Starting a business can be a daunting task, but SCORE is here to help simplify it for you. 

There are a number of factors to keep in mind before starting your own business. This module will introduce you to key business considerations, such as the myths and realities of entrepreneurship, different business options to pursue, the components of business ownership, legal and financial considerations, and the business plan basics. 

If you’re thinking about starting your own business, this module will help you feel confident in evaluating your ideas and deciding if business ownership is right for you.

In the full "Simple Steps for Starting Your Business" online program, you will test the feasibility of your business idea and decide whether or not you should move forward or go back to the drawing board. You'll do this by researching industry profile data, customer data, financial projections, and other information. You'll also have a sample feasibility plan to use as a guide. 

Once you've finished this module, make sure to take the remaining workshops:

• Business Concept

• Marketing Plan

• Financial Projections

• Funding Sources

Download the "Simple Steps for Starting Your Business" workbook that accompanies the modules and provides more information on this topic.  

Contact your local SCORE chapter and determine if the in-person workshops are available in your community. At the in-person workshops, you will get more information, learn from local experts, connect with your personal mentor for free answers to your business questions, and meet other aspiring small business owners.

SCORE Volunteer Contributions

Thanks to the following SCORE volunteers who served as subject matter experts in the development of these new Simple Steps for Starting Your Business eLearning modules!

• Bob Breaux - Baton Rouge Area SCORE
• Bill Gill - Charlotte SCORE
• Karl Haug - East Bay SCORE
• Patrick Ingram - Greater Phoenix SCORE
• Mort Harris & Loren Herbst - Minneapolis SCORE  
• Eileen Cummings - West Palm Beach SCORE
• Tom Burgum & Lou Davenport - SCORE Lancaster-Lebanon