But cooking up a concept and actually launching a company are two very different things. Startup businesses require dedication, knowledge, and capital. Every year thousands of people chase this dream—and just a few succeed. The difference between those who sink and those who swim is preparation—financial as well as strategic.

The Ohio Small Business Development Center at Columbus State Community College, has developed the Business Startup Model, a step-by-step assessment tool that asks the critical questions any successful business owner should be able to answer. Based on input from business owners, lenders, financial experts, and other resources, this interactive series of quizzes and guidelines reveals the issues every budding entrepreneur will face when seeking funding and hanging the proverbial shingle.

The model may indicate aspects to entrepreneurship you may not have considered, and can help identify areas where your business concept needs additional research or development. To aid you, most chapters of the Model contain references to additional print, Web, and institutional resources that provide even more valuable information.

Of course, no two businesses are alike, and this interactive experience may not address all your needs, or may address more than concern your service or industry. But the more of these issues you understand, the better the odds of impressing potential lenders, partners, distributors, clients, and the many other parties you will inevitably encounter. Start with the first stage and proceed in linear fashion through the entire Model, or jump directly to the stage of most urgency, using the navigational curve at the bottom of all Model pages. If you encounter a Model question or subject you need additional assistance with, contact the SBDC at (614) 225-6910 or via e-mail. (The SBDC cannot field questions regarding technical issues related to Internet usage.)

Good luck, and here's to the beginning of a great business!