This is a guideline. Not all businesses need to undertake all activities.  The time period may vary from business to business, but these activities are generally undertaken in start-up.  This should serve as a reminder and framework for budgeting time to lay a solid foundation for a new business.

9-12 MONTHS PRIOR TO START-UP

Choose a business based on your skills and interests.

Choose business name, verify right to use name, register the name.  (Not necessary to register business name in Wisconsin).

Determine the amount of time required to obtain business permits.

Research the idea.

Identify helpful membership organizations (e.g. Chamber of Commerce, Builders Association, etc.)

Visit with others in your network:  attorneys, bankers, CPA's, consultants, competition.

Check out community amenities (real estate, schools, etc.).

Subscribe to local papers.

Decide on business location.

Obtain licenses (city, county, state, industry).

Prepare preliminary business plan and budget.

Interview bankers.

Determine when phone book is printed.

6-9 MONTHS PRIOR TO START-UP 

Check zoning ordinances.

Check utility requirements.

Prepare leasehold improvement plan.

Determine office and plant layout and design.

Choose advisors: attorney, CPA, consultant, insurance agents and brokers.

Review leases and contracts with attorney and advisors.

Obtain bids on major business equipment.

Arrange delivery of equipment.

4-6 MONTHS PRIOR TO START-UP

Complete business plan including marketing plan.

Decide on form of business organization (sole proprietor, corporation, LLC, etc.) and file papers.

Select Board of Directors for corporation.

Prepare advertisements.

Prepare final budget and review with banker. Order business systems: receivables, check disbursements, payroll system.

Order sign for office.

0-4 MONTHS PRIOR TO START-UP

Make sure business filings and license applications are complete (trademark, patents, copyright).

Arrange for insurance (business and health).

Arrange for telephone service installation.

Open checking accounts.

Sign up for credit card systems at local bank.

Arrange for business announcement ads in local papers.

Order announcements for office opening.

Arrange to give talks to community groups.

Consider membership in civic and church organizations.

Arrange for movers.

Contact State Department of Workforce Development.

Prepare job descriptions for employees.

Write policy manual for office employees.

Check local resources for personnel.

Begin screening process for new personnel.

Contact IRS for booklets (apply for Federal Employment ID number).

Apply for state ID number.

Find out about workers' compensation if you will have employees.

Apply for seller's permit.

Contact state for tax forms and employer's requirements.

Obtain payroll withholding booklets from tax authorities.

Review tax requirements with your accountant.

Arrange for janitorial service, waste removal, laundry service, grass mowing.

Order supplies: appointment cards, business cards, stationery, deposit stamp for checks, telephone message pads.

Interview and select collection agency.

Determine business hours.

Determine pricing schedule.

Order publications (price lists, brochures, receipt forms, etc.).

Purchase office equipment and furniture.

Start setting up office.

Schedule utilities to be turned on.

Hire and train office personnel.

Establish petty cash fund.

Prepare press release and begin advertisement.

Mail announcement.

Plan an open house.

Call everyone you know and let them know you are in business.