1. Conduct the appropriate research on your industry, target market and competition.

2. Develop a business plan.

3. Determine your organizations business structure. Sole Proprietorship, General Partnership, Limited Partnership, LLC, Corporation C / S

4. Choose and register your business name.

5. Contact the North Carolina Business ServiCenter to determine if your business is subject to any state licensing. http://www.nccommerce.com/servicenter/blio/startup/

6. All businesses operating within Charlotte are required to obtain a Privilege License from the Office of the City/County Tax Collector - 700 North Tryon Street., Charlotte, NC 28202 http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Tax+Collections/Home.htm

7. Contact the city / county to obtain any necessary occupational licenses and / or permits.

8. Verify any operating restrictions that your business location may have; for example, Homeowners Associations Codes, Covenants and Restrictions and city/county zoning laws.

9. If necessary, acquire a Federal Employer Identification Number.

10. If you have or plan to have employees, familiarize yourself with state and federal labor regulations.

11. Explore any necessary financing options for your business.

12.Meet with an accountant, attorney and insurance agent to ensure your business success.