Steps to follow to take your business from idea to reality.

Steps to starting

Follow these steps to help guide you through the early stages of establishing your business.

Essential business skills

Identify the skills you need to improve or develop so that you can succeed in business.

Business planning

A business plan is a blueprint to your business's future and outlines your objectives, strategies, target market and financial forecasts.

Licences and permits

You may require licences or permits to operate a business in Western Australia. Our free Business Licence Finder can help identify what you need to get started.

Business structures

One of the key decisions you'll make when starting a business is which legal structure to use. 

Business names

The name of your business will shape its identity and image. Choose one that reflects what your business is about and will continue to be relevant as the business grows and evolves.

Buying a business

Discover the key factors to consider when buying an established business and how to make an offer to purchase.

Franchising

Franchising is an alternative to setting up your own business, allowing you to operate under an established brand and sell their products and services.

Tenders

You can grow your business by using tenders to supply goods and service to government and private sector organisations.

Importing

Importing can provide opportunities to grow your business attract new customers.

Exporting

Exporting allows you to reach new markets by expanding the reach of your products and services.

Support for business owners

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Small business workshops

Our practical workshops are packed with key information and useful hints and tips to help you start and grow your business.

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Photo of an SBDC business adviser providing guidance to a client over the phone.

Advisory services

Access free, confidential and trusted advice from our experienced small business advisers.

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SBDC Blog

Get the latest small business news and practical tips to help you along your business journey.

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Templates, tools and guides

Our free business templates, tools and guides have been designed to assist you to create essential documents for your business and build your knowledge.

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