Work & Finance

3 Ways to Own Your Own Business

Many people aspire to run their own business and be their own boss. It can be very rewarding and also requires a lot of hard work. Funding from a reputable small business oriented bank can help achieve the objective of business ownership. Here are 3 ways to own your own business.

3 Ways to Own Your Own Business

Buy a franchise

Buying a franchise is a good way to have your own business, without doing it all by yourself. A franchise grants the owner the rights to use another company’s successful business model. This includes selling its goods or services in a predefined area. If you own a franchise, your odds of continued profitability may be greater due to the brand and name recognition of the franchise. There are numerous types of franchise businesses. buying a franchise is a wondeful idea as there are just so many around these days. Franchise Info have a list of some great franchises, check them out and take a look at all of the lovely franchises. Some of the most well-known are Subway, McDonald’s, 7-Eleven and Dunkin Doughnuts. Other franchise opportunities include automotive companies, dry cleaners and financial service companies. While running a franchise may be a good fit for some business owners, it may not be the right fit for everyone. While franchisees may have some autonomy they are not totally independent. They are required to follow certain rules and regulations mandated by the franchisor. They may also have to pay ongoing fees and royalties.

Buy an established, non-franchise, business

Purchasing an established, non-franchise, business is another option for people interested in owning their own business. This route offers complete corporate independence, unlike a franchise. Other benefits of buying an established business include inheriting a customer base, trained employees and a functioning operational infrastructure. Before acquiring a business it is always important to do detailed due diligence to avoid any surprises. Some important activities include reviewing all financial records, including tax returns. It may make sense to spend some money to pay an accountant to help with the process to be sure you get an accurate picture of the situation. Visit the business to learn more about it and talk with the employees. Familiarize yourself with major contracts and any outstanding litigation. Ask the owner why they are selling. The continued success of a business can be boosted if the new owner is knowledgeable and interested in the industry.

Start something new

Many entrepreneurs live to start new businesses and would not have it any other way. This route, however, is not for the faint of heart. There are many things to consider and research before embarking on a brand new business venture. Gathering information about competitors, target market, business sustainability and prospective employees is essential. If you need financing, business banking can help. After you have thoroughly researched the basics, you can begin to write a strategic business plan.  A bank may not lend money to a start-up business if they do not have a business plan. Some things that should be included in a business plan are business goals, marketing strategy, market research, management plan and financial projections.

Owning your own business can be very exciting and profitable. It can also provide a way to achieve independence from the daily rat race. Three ways to have your own business are buying a franchise, buying an established, non-franchise, business and founding a brand new company.

Further Resources

Determining Your Capital Needs | Access to Capital

Preparing to Raise Capital | Access to Capital