Business 2.0: Bulletproof Startup

Got a great idea? There's never been a better time to turn it into a great company. Here's a 16-step guide to help you do it right.

For entrepreneurs, now is the time

New technologies are creating new business opportunities, and radically reducing costs for startups. Still, success is as difficult as ever. (more)

Phase one: Establish a company

In order to get started you�ve got to test your idea, build a founding team, get a business plan together and pick a company name that will take you to the top. Here�s what to keep in mind. (more)

Phase two: Prototype the product

Finally the rubber meets the road, as you stake out your intellectual property and assemble the demo that will help you sell your idea. (more)

Phase three: Develop the beta product

Now is the time to start installing your staff -- hire the best you can afford. They�ll help you perfect your company's product and begin the beta testing process. (more)

Phase four: Launch the product

Now that the testing is done and the product has been refined, you need to find paying customers. So stop fiddling and start selling! (more)

Searching for angel investors

Here is what every aspiring business-owner should look for in early-stage backers. Remember, it's not just money you want; you also want brainpower, connections, and experience. (more)

What a VC wants to see in you

You too can woo even the fussiest venture capitalists. Be sure you�re pitching to the right partner -- and expect them to present you with a deal sheet that has some tough terms. (more)

Download the PDF

See �How to Build a Bulletproof Startup� exactly as it appeared in the June, 2006 issue of Business 2.0 Magazine. (more)

More for entrepreneurs

5 deadly mistakes when starting a business

Becoming your own boss can be a dream come true - if you're willing to learn from other people's nightmares. (more)

Ditching the daily grind - 5 who did it

Former executives say that it was rough at times, but that starting their own business was the ultimate promotion. (more)

Can entrepreneurship be taught?

Classes for would-be entrepreneurs are a hot trend at America's universities. But can risk taking and originality be learned? (more)

More small business

25 Hot startups

A new Web revolution is picking up steam, and the next Google or Microsoft could emerge from the companies that are in the vanguard. (more)

The entrepreneur�s guide to the galaxy

Prepare for liftoff: The space business may be the most incredible new opportunity of your lifetime. (more)

The 2005 FSB 100

FORTUNE Small Business' list of America's fastest-growing small public companies. (more)

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CNNMoney

Most stock quote data provided by BATS. Market indices are shown in real time, except for the DJIA, which is delayed by two minutes. All times are ET. Disclaimer.