Entrepreneurship Programs and Resources
Entrepreneurs are a special breed of people. They are extremely energetic, optimistic, driven to succeed, and have a "fire in the belly" to bring their idea to commercial success. And often, they are not ones to listen, to plan carefully, to explain fully to others. Entrepreneurs are widely thought to be risk takers. In fact, most successful entrepreneurs are not risk takers, but risk minimizers. Starting a new business venture means walking into a world of unknowns, and the shrewd entrepreneur will seek out answers to as many of those unknows as possible - because they can be the difference between life and death of the enterprise.
One of the first things to do in starting a business is to know yourself. You may be strong in all the areas that any entrepreneur would need to be strong, but that is highly unlikely. You need to know areas where you are not so strong so that you can get help in those areas, by hiring the right kind of talent, taking on a partner, or recruiting mentors. Here is a simple self-assessment tool that can help you know yourself better. Self-Biz Quiz
Fortunately there are many sources of assistance to help scope out and set up a new business venture. One of the best is the Startup Guide written by the Athens-Clarke County Human & Economic Development Department, which you can download here: "Start me up Guide." This guide is a source of many elements that should be checked out as you develop your business plan and business model. Nevertheless, it is only a guide and offers first steps toward getting important things done; it is no substitute for the advice of a qualified business consultant.
Qualified business consultants affiliated with the Georgia Small Business Development Center and the US Small Business Administration are active in every county of Georgia. They provide assistance in many areas of starting and growing your business. Many businesses and entrepreneurs approach them asking about financial assistance. With this kind of assistance, and most other assistance, the strongest foundation you can have is a well-thought out, solid business plan. Learn more about these resources by exploring the links below:
Georgia Small Business Development Center
U.S. Small Business Administration
A Brief Guide to Business Plans
The Georgia Deparment of Economic Development maintains a Small Business Directory that will provide resources on almost any topic related to starting, running, and expanding your business.