Before you start, we recommend you carefully consider the market opportunity and evaluate your idea to fully understand the likely success of your new venture. If your evaluation is positive, we recommend you capture your ideas, forecasted costs and anticipated revenues in a simple business plan.  The business planning section below has some useful templates which will help you draft your plan.

There are regulatory requirements you must comply with before you start trading.  Read these very carefully and complete all the required applications as soon as possible. In most cases, you must obtain regulatory approval before you start trading.

There is a range of financing options available for start-ups. We recommend that you identify the right ones from the outset. The funding your business section will guide you through your options.

Whether you intend to operate your business from home or you require premises, we advise that you consider the various options available to you. Our finding premises section will guide you through these options.

Getting your sales and marketing right will be crucial to the success of your business. Follow our practical advice about establishing successful sales and marketing strategies as well as identifying potential opportunities for trading overseas.