Opening a business?

[tn94z]

My wife and I have come up with a business idea that we (and others) really think will take off in our area. I have never owned a business or even had an idea worthy of getting deep into thought about starting one. So I am kind of clueless as to where we start. I know I need to do some research about the products. My thinking is that I would need to do the research in another town so no one will take my idea and run with it. The idea stems from a national franchise but it is really nothing they could have a patent on. So we were going to use the same principles with a different name.

How do we research?
Where do we start? Etc....Any ideas will be greatly appreciated!!

[dixiechick]

Re: Opening a business?

For years I did volunteer work at our local chamber of commerce, they have a lot of good information. I would start my research with them. Check to see if they have a seminar on small business. Also check with you local college for a small business continued ed class. Another good source is the www.sba.gov. This will help you learn how to write a business plan and projected budget. The basics of a business plan is description of the business, marketing, finances & management.