Software / Systems
The Ultimate Resource to
Start & Grow Your Business
Access essential tools, foundational guidance, and expert knowledge to build, grow, and sustain a thriving business brought to you by our Business Blueprint Workshop sponsors:
Business Services to Help You Scale
Discover top tools, software, and trusted service providers—including our Business Blueprint Workshop sponsors—handpicked to help you scale and grow your business. Dive into resources designed to support your business's success!
SOCIAL MEDIA & MARKETING
We help your business turn strangers into loyal clients through strategic social media advertising, content marketing, website development, and email campaigns that connect your brand with the right audience for long-term growth.
Daniel Ovalle
WEBSITES & DESIGN
We bring ideas to life, transforming concepts into dynamic visual experiences that leave a lasting impact. Partner with us to elevate your projects to new heights.
Web Designer & Logo Designer
(520) 820-3800
Zakary King
The Essential 10-Step Plan to Starting Your Business
Get started the right way with essential steps and resources to build a strong foundation for your business. From business plans to securing insurance, find everything you need to launch with confidence!
Ask yourself:
1. What am I passionate about?
2. What problems can I solve for others?
3. Is there a demand for this product or service in my community or online?
Start by brainstorming a business idea that matches your skills, interests, and your market demand.
The key elements to include are:
1. Business concept: What are you selling?
2. Target market: Who are your customers?
3. Revenue model: How will you make money?
4. Basic financial projections:
Startup costs, sales forecasts, etc.
A simple business plan outlines what your business does, who your customers are, and how you plan to make money.
You can search for business name availability using the Texas Secretary of State website’s portal here
If you are not using your personal name for the business (e.g., “John Smith”), you will need to file a DBA (Doing Business As) or "Assumed Name" through your county clerk's office.
Choose a business name that reflects what you do and check its availability.
Option 1: Sole Proprietorship
The simplest business structure for beginners is a sole proprietorship, which doesn’t require formal registration, but you are personally liable for the business.
Option 2: LLC
If you want liability protection, you may opt for an LLC or a Limited Liability Company, which is easy to form and separates personal and business liabilities.
You can file for you LLC (Limited Liability Company) online through the Security of State by submitting Form 205 and paying a co fee.
Decide on a business structure
An EIN is like a social security number for your business, and it’s needed for tax purposes, especially if you plan to hire employees.
1. Texas doesn’t have a general business license, but depending on your industry, you may need local permits or licenses. Check with your city or county to see what’s required.
2. For example, food-related businesses may need health permits, while home-based businesses might need zoning permits.
3. Use the Texas Business Licenses & Permits tool here to identify the permits you need.
Apply for Business Licenses and Permits
1. Separate your personal and business finances by opening a business checking account. This will make accounting easier and help protect your personal assets.
2. Most banks require your EIN and business formation documents (like your LLC paperwork or DBA).
Open a Business Bank Account
1. Even if you’re not hiring an accountant right away, tracking your income and expenses is essential.
You can start with simple, free accounting softwares like Wave Accounting or QuickBooks (offer free trials)
Set Up an Accounting System
1. At a minimum, consider general liability insurance to protect your business from lawsuits. You may also need specific types of insurance depending on your industry (e.g., product liability, professional liability).
2. Shop around for quotes online or through insurance brokers.
Get Business Insurance
You can also:
1. Build a basic website use simple platforms such as Wix or Squarespace
2. - Set up a free Google My Business profile to attract local customers.
Start simple by using social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn, which are free marketing tools.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Business Plan Templates
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Business Formation Guides: Simplified guides on how to form an LLC, register a DBA, and select the right legal structure.
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Best Resource: Nolo’s Small Business Legal Resources.
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Permits and Licenses: Link to resources on obtaining the right business licenses and industry-specific permits.
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Best Resource: Texas Business Licenses & Permits.
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Legal & Regulatory Compliance
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Free Accounting Software: Recommend free or low-cost accounting tools like Wave Accounting, QuickBooks, and Xero.
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Best Resource: Wave Accounting for free bookkeeping.
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Tax Compliance: Provide IRS resources for small business taxes, tax filing deadlines, and deductions.
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Best Resource: IRS Small Business & Self-Employed Tax Center.
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Financial Management & Accounting
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Small Business Loans: Information on how to apply for small business loans, grants, and alternative funding (crowdfunding, angel investors).
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Best Resource: SBA Loans and Grants Guide.
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Grant Opportunities: Provide links to resources for small business grants, particularly for women and minority-owned businesses.
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Best Resource: Grants.gov and Amber Grant for Women.
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Funding & Capital
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Free Marketing Tools: Highlight free or low-cost digital marketing tools such as Google My Business, Canva, and Hootsuite for social media management.
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Best Resource: Google My Business, Canva, Hootsuite.
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Marketing Strategies: Guides on creating a marketing plan, social media strategies, and SEO basics.
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Best Resource: HubSpot Marketing Library.
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Marketing & Branding
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HR Guidelines and Compliance: Resources on hiring employees, payroll, and labor laws (offer a simple payroll software guide).
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Best Resource: Gusto HR Tools and Zenefits HR Library.
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Employee Benefits and Retention: Provide information on setting up employee benefits, health insurance, and how to retain talent.
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Best Resource: SCORE HR Resources.
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HR & Employee Management
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Free Mentorship Programs: Promote free mentoring programs from experienced business professionals.
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Best Resource: SCORE Mentoring, Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs).
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Networking Events and Communities: Information on joining local business groups, chambers of commerce, or online communities for peer support.
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Best Resource: Meetup Business Networking and local Chamber of Commerce directories.
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Mentorship & Networking
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Project Management Tools: Suggest easy-to-use, free or affordable project management tools such as Trello, Asana, and Slack.
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Cloud Storage and Collaboration: Offer recommendations for free cloud storage solutions (e.g., Google Workspace or Dropbox).
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Best Resource: Google Workspace and Dropbox.
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Technology & Productivity Tools
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Insurance Options: Simple guides on selecting the right insurance (general liability, property, and workers’ compensation).
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Best Resource: Insureon Small Business Insurance.
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Business Insurance
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FREE ONLINE RESOURCES
These resources cover a range of small business needs, from financial management and marketing to legal and operational guidance.
Business Education Hub:
Learn From the Experts!
Grow your knowledge with insights from top business experts. Access free resources, recommended books, podcasts, and even connect with experienced mentors to guide you on your journey.
Book Recommendations
PODCASTS
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