Creating a new business from scratch is hard work, but it certainly can be done.  New startups take root every single day, and while they vary widely across industries, there are a few things you can do to help set yourself up for success in a new endeavor.

1. Make a Concrete, Realistic, and Comprehensive Plan

There’s no one secret to business success—but a surefire way to fail is to lack a good plan.  One of the first steps you’ll take in designing your enterprise is crafting a formal business plan, which will essentially contain a detailed blueprint for business operation.  This includes an executive summary outlining your proposal and business idea, market research, financial projections, and a funding request (among other sections).

Aside from serving as a template for prospective lenders, a plan will help you stay focused, organized, and oriented on the work that needs to be done.  Ultimately, it will ensure you’re prepared for the obligations of business ownership, and the work ahead, and serve as a template once your business opens.

2. Proactively Seek Out Funding

Many startups begin with a commercial loan from a bank or credit union.  That sort of funding may be accessible to you, but if not, it’s worth considering varied and alternative lending options.

Venture capitalists and angel investors increasingly invest in startup enterprises.  They often have a lot of cash to put down, but will likely require an ownership stake in the business.  Alternatively, hard money loans, and bridge loans, can be effective short-term ways to raise capital, potentially helping you get going on a new venture before finding a more secure means of long-term financing.

Consider how much money you need, and how fast, and be considerate in your choice of financing.

3. Find Great People To Work With

Startups thrive on dynamic relationships.  Whether you are starting a venture alone or with others, you’ll be collaborating every step of the way.  Don’t cut corners with personnel.  Seek out the best for whichever position you’re trying to fill.  Cast a wide net, reach out to networking contacts and advertise as needed.

A great team will ultimately make the difference between success and failure.  Reliable employees and co-workers can help carry the load, identify budding problems, and ultimately help creatively grow a new business.

While starting a new business is difficult, people continue to do it all the time.  With thorough planning, sufficient capital, and creative collaboration, you’ll be well on your way to developing a thriving enterprise.