🚀 MKA Entrepreneur

Action Steps

• Define the problem you're solving in one clear sentence — if you can't, the idea isn't ready
• Identify 3–5 potential customers and have honest conversations with them
• Research whether competitors exist and how they're positioned
• Run a simple landing page or survey to gauge real interest before building
• Define what success looks like in 90 days

Resources

Action Steps

• Choose a business structure (LLC is most common for small businesses — simple and protective)
• Register your business with your state (most states have an online portal)
• Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS — it's free and takes minutes
• Open a dedicated business bank account — never mix personal and business funds
• Understand your tax obligations: quarterly estimated taxes, sales tax if selling products

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Action Steps

• Calculate your actual startup costs — include 6 months of operating expenses as a buffer
• Start with your own savings; only raise external money when you've proven something
• Explore SBA loans and microloan programs (often lower rates than commercial loans)
• Research local and national grants — especially for minority-owned businesses
• If seeking investors, build traction first: customers, revenue, or strong waitlist

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Action Steps

• Define your MVP (minimum viable product) — the simplest version that solves the core problem
• Set up basic operations: tools, processes, and communication systems before you're overwhelmed
• Acquire your first 10 customers manually — don't rely on marketing automation yet
• Collect feedback from every early customer — build a feedback loop from day one
• Set up basic bookkeeping from day one (even a simple spreadsheet beats catching up later)

Resources

Action Steps

• Identify your best-performing acquisition channel and double down on it before adding new ones
• Define your 3 most important KPIs and review them weekly
• Build a referral or repeat-purchase system — it's always cheaper to retain than acquire
• Consider hiring or contracting help once you've validated that a role pays for itself
• Explore strategic partnerships, local business groups, and community networks for warm leads

Resources