Starting a Business: Tools, Templates & Expert Guidance
Turn your business idea into a thriving reality with step-by-step help from Accion Opportunity Fund.
Whether you’re just exploring a business idea or ready to register your LLC, we’ve got your back. From planning and legal setup to licenses, branding, and funding – we offer free resources and real-person support to help you launch with clarity and confidence.
Launch Your Dream With a Clear Business Plan
Starting a business can feel overwhelming – but with the right structure and support, it doesn’t have to be. At Accion Opportunity Fund (AOF), we simplify the process. Our free, founder-friendly tools walk you through each step of the startup journey, from idea validation to your first customer. Everything here is designed to help new business owners avoid costly mistakes, build efficiently, and start strong.
Key Startup Business Topics
What to Know Before Starting a Business
- Is entrepreneurship right for you?
- Understanding risk, resilience, and startup time commitments
- Setting smart business goals that match your lifestyle and values
How To Start a Legal Business: First Steps
- Choosing a business structure: LLC, sole proprietorship, partnership
- Registering your business name
- Getting an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
- Licenses, permits, and zoning
How to Write a Simple Startup Business Plan
- Clarify your value proposition and ideal target market
- Plan your budget, startup costs, and revenue projections
- Set realistic 6-month and 12-month goals
Opening a Business Bank Account & Managing Finances
- Why business and personal finances should be separate
- Choosing a business bank account
- Basic bookkeeping and tax readiness
Building Your Brand & Online Presence
- Picking a business name and securing your domain
- Setting up Google Business Profile and business social media pages
- Logo, visual identity, and basic marketing plan
How To Get Funding For Your Startup
- Different types of Business Loans; Self-funding, microloans, and grants
- Business Loan Borrower Checklist
- What investors and lenders look for in new businesses
Real Success Story: Starting a Business with Purpose
How Coolhaus Grew from a Side Hustle to a National Brand
Natasha Case turned a playful idea – combining food and architecture – into Coolhaus, a bold ice cream brand launched during the Great Recession. With no business experience, she and her partner sold architect-themed ice cream sandwiches from a towed truck at Coachella. When traditional lenders wouldn’t help them grow, Accion Opportunity Fund stepped in to finance their fleet. That early support helped Coolhaus expand nationally. Now in 6,000+ stores, Natasha credits AOF for helping her start and scale a purpose-driven business.
Pro Business Tips from AOF Advisors
AOF Advisor Tip: Don’t wait for everything to be perfect – start with what you have and test fast.
AOF Advisor Tip: Even small side hustles should be set up properly to avoid tax or legal issues later.
AOF Advisor Tip: Set 30-day, 90-day, and 1-year goals to keep your launch focused and measurable.
Top Startup Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the Legal Setup
Don’t operate without registering. It protects you and makes you eligible for funding.
Not Budgeting for Start-Up Costs
Even a lean business needs capital. Plan ahead to avoid early cash flow problems.
Doing Everything Alone
Find mentors, join support groups, and talk to advisors. Entrepreneurship doesn’t have to be lonely.
Waiting Too Long to Launch
Start small, test your idea, and iterate. Waiting for perfection can kill momentum.
FAQs About Starting a Business
How much money do I need to start a business?
It depends on your industry, but even small startups should plan for 3–6 months of expenses.
Do I need to write a business plan?
Yes – a simple plan helps clarify your ideas and prepare for funding.
How do I know which business structure is right for me?
Our free quiz and guide can help you decide between LLC, sole proprietorship, and more.
Can I get funding without a business history?
AOF provides funding for early-stage businesses. We also help you build a loan-ready profile.
Where can I get help with my startup plan?
Schedule a free session with an AOF business advisor.
Ready to Launch Your Business?
Start smart. AOF gives you free tools, expert guidance, and step-by-step support – so you can build with confidence
What Makes AOF Different from other Startup Business Lenders?
Practical Business Help for Real Entrepreneurs
Starting a business isn’t just about vision – it’s about execution. Our resources are made by people who’ve been in your shoes. You won’t find corporate jargon or gatekept tools here – just practical help that works.
Business Coaching from Real People
Talk to a real person, for free. Our advisors offer guidance on launching, registering, planning, and marketing. You get personalized support – no pressure, no pitch.
100% Free and Transparent Business Resources
All our resources are free. No subscriptions, no paywalls. And if you’re exploring business loan funding, our nonprofit lending model means fair terms and honest advice – always.
AOF by the Numbers: Trusted by Business Entrepreneurs Nationwide
67% of subprime borrowers become near-prime or better by loan payoff
$1B+ deployed in loans to small businesses
35,000+ entrepreneurs supported with coaching and training
4.5M+ business owners served through our free resource library
100% of tools and templates available for free
107,000+ jobs supported through lending and NMTC
