You’ve got an idea. Now what?
Look, we get it. Branching out to start your own business seems scary. Good thing that part is only in your head. You can DO this. We here at REV are rooting for you. Why? Because we believe small businesses are the fabric of a vibrant community. REV’s Business Growth team offers workshops, coaching and resources for passionate people to more easily start and grow their entrepreneurial dreams. One of those resources is a helpful, 20-step checklist to assist you with making your idea a reality. Check out a few of our tips:
-
Identify your WHY
Consider why you’re starting this business and how your customers will feel about your product. The keyword here is “feel.” People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it. Your personal why is an important piece of building a worthy product, a company and a brand.
-
Solidify your company’s core values.
What do you value and how will your company be a reflection of that? Think about how you’ll build trust with your customers. People buy from companies that share their values and beliefs. Write them down and let them guide you along the way. This will be your north star as you navigate the often treacherous path of entrepreneurs. When you find yourself at a fork in the road, reflect on your core values and then decide.
-
Draft your message, starting with WHY.
Your brand story should start with why. What do you believe and how does your product or service reflect that? What are you selling and how are you selling it? Practice your pitch until it feels super comfortable and then be prepared to test it during the early stages of your business to see what resonates with your customers.
-
Determine your Minimum Viable Product.
Your vision may be huge, but everyone has to start somewhere. Determine the simplest product requiring the least investment and create a plan for getting to your first sale to begin gaining customer feedback quickly.
-
Start with the numbers.
Draft a startup budget to clearly see what it will take to get your small business dream off the ground. Consider your startup expenses first and where you’ll find the resources to get started.
These are just a few tips that our team compiled to get you on track. Want the whole list? Click the button below for access to the rest:
Related News
-
Preservation that pays: How historic tax credits can power a downtown revival
Filed Under: Developer, Downtown Birmingham, Front Page, Historic Preservation
For preservation advocates (or “building huggers,” as we like to call ourselves), historic tax credits are essential. They don’t just help save historic buildings — they support local economies, encourage private investment and breathe new life into spaces that shape the identity of our communities.
-
Date night done right: Romantic outings you’ll fall for in Birmingham
Filed Under: Birmingham Food & Drink, Downtown Birmingham, Family Friendly, Front Page, Residential, Yaysayers
Looking for the perfect way to spend quality time with your special someone? In this guide, we’ve rounded up a variety of Magic City date ideas tailored to different tastes, personalities and interests. So, grab your partner, or even a few friends, and explore some of Birmingham’s best spots for a truly memorable time.
-
Downtown BHM Fitness Trail: 20+ locations to feel the burn!
Filed Under: Business-Proving, Downtown Birmingham, Front Page, Residential
Downtown Birmingham is where fitness meets community in a vibrant urban landscape. In this trail, we’ll take you through locations on both the north and south sides of downtown, highlighting gyms and outdoor destinations where you can connect with others while working on your fitness goals. Ready to break a sweat?