3 things every new company needs (and how to get them for free)

There are no limits on who can become a great entrepreneur.

You don't need a college degree, a bunch of money in the bank or even business experience to start the next big thing. What you do need is a strong plan and the drive to see it through.

If you're an Entrepreneur, odds are you already have the drive, but you might not know where to start. That's why we're here.

Here’s a list of 3 things you can do to help turn your big idea into a successful business.

1. Company Name

Your company name has a big impact on how customers view you. It’s also used on all your branding, marketing and company documents. It can be a difficult decision but here’s a few tips to help you:

• Keep it simple, easy to pronounce and remember.
• Avoid unusual spellings.
• Make it relevant to what your company does but not too specific that it boxes you in.

To get some ideas here’s a nifty online tool to generate company names and our own tool to check if your company name is available.

2. Company Logo

Great logos make great first impressions. A well designed logo makes you look professional and builds trust with customers. It also helps you stand out from your competitors.

Paying a professional designer to make your company logo is a good idea if you have the money. But if you’re like most entrepreneurs trying to save every cent then you can do it yourself.

Here’s a free app to make a professional looking logo in minutes.

3. One Page Business Plan

A business plan is an important strategic tool for entrepreneurs. It’s not only a requirement for tenders and funding. It’s a valuable exercise to help you clarify what you are trying to achieve and how you are going to do it.

The good news is the days of writing a 60 page document have passed. Simpler, to-the-point plans are becoming the norm. Most entrepreneurs are now using a 1-page business plan to get their business off the ground faster.

Get started with this step-by-step guide on how to write a one page business plan.

Now go out and make it happen :)