Business Lifecycle

Planning is critical to successfully starting and building a business. That’s why we’ve dedicated a section for it. Here you’ll find guidance on the tools and resources necessary to write a winning business plan. From sample plans to a business plan primer, we’ll get you started on this very important activity. Once your business is up and running, you’ll need to regularly review and update your plan to manage growth.

Starting a business requires you to complete a number of steps and make some key decisions. Though part of your overall plan, you’ll need to select a location, decide on a business structure, and obtain the necessary licenses and permits. In addition, determining which financing options will meet your short-term needs and long-term goals is crucial. Within this section, we’ll provide information on these topics along with guidance on buying an existing business, copyright and trademark issues, and getting support from an outside expert.

Successfully managing a business requires specific management skills in addition to knowledge of key business practices. Within this section you’ll learn about leadership traits, decision-making skills, and how to manage your employees. Additionally, we’ll walk you through a host of important topics to manage your business including: marketing basics, setting prices, filing your business taxes, legal considerations, forecasting for future growth, and financing options.

Getting out of your business may not be important to you at this point. However, planning your exit strategy often involves more than just closing down. Within this section we’ll discuss practical options that include selling your business or transferring ownership. In the event that you decide it is time to close your business, you’ll learn about liquidation, filing bankruptcy and reviewing the IRS guide on shutting down.

The Business and Entrepreneurship Center at Cuesta College is funded by Economic and Workforce Development through the California Community Colleges. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the California Community College Chancellor’s Office. Reasonable accommodations will be made for handicapped individuals upon their request.