Launch Your Business the Smart Way
Start Smart. Grow Faster.
Everything You Need to Start and Scale
Our comprehensive 5-phase approach breaks down the complex process into manageable, actionable steps.
Phase 1: Foundational Setup
Choose a Business Name
Make sure it’s easy to spell, say, and remember.
- Check availability in your state by searching your Secretary of State’s business registry.
- File your Articles of Organization with your state.
- Appoint a Registered Agent (yourself or a service like Northwest Registered Agent).
Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required to open a business bank account and hire contractors.
Open a Business Bank Account
Get Business Insurance (optional but smart)
Phase 2: Compliance and Automation
- Choose a bookkeeping solution to track and categorize expenses automatically.
- Use tools like QuickBooks, Bench, or Lettuce to stay on top of quarterly filings.
Register for State & Local Taxes
Check your local requirements as they vary by state.
- Check for sales tax permit requirements.
- Check for local business licenses and permits.
Keep Business Documents Organized
Keep your legal and financial documents in one secure, easy-to-access place using tools like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Notion. If you registered through Northwest Registered Agent, many of your essential documents will already be available in your dashboard.
- Store Articles of Organization, EIN letter, S Corp election, and tax filings in a secure place.
Create a Digital Filing System
Keep your legal and financial documents in one secure, easy-to-access place using tools like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Notion. If you registered through Northwest Registered Agent, many of your essential documents will already be available in your dashboard.
- Suggest naming conventions (e.g., “2025_Q2_Expenses.pdf”) to keep docs searchable This helps long-term operations, not just startup tasks
Phase 3: Launch Essentials
Build a Simple Website
- Choose a platform like WordPress + Elementor, Webflow, or Wix
- Include key pages: Who you are, what you offer, and how to contact you
- Short on time? Consider a Launch-Ready Website from Hey CMO
Design a Logo & Branded Materials
See our recommendations on the Branded Materials and logo design page).
Create Core Messaging
This supports branding, sales, and content consistencySet Up Scheduling Tool
Make it easy to book calls with tools like Calendly or SavvyCal
Bonus: Connect to Zoom or Google Meet
Phase 4: Nice to Haves
Get Professional Headshots
- Use high-quality photos on your website, LinkedIn, and sales materials to build trust.
Set Up a Lead Capture System
- Add a form to your website to collect leads (Typeform, Getformly).
- Bonus: Connect to a free CRM like HubSpot to track leads.
Start Cold Outreach
Hire Support (When You’re Ready)
- Offload admin, content scheduling, research, and more.
- Explore Virtual Assistant Support from Hey CMO.
Phase 5: If You Elect S-Corp Status
Make the S Corp Election (if it’s the right fit)
S Corps can save you thousands on self-employment taxes if you’re earning $60K+ per year.
- File IRS Form 2553 within 75 days of forming your LLC.
Set Up Payroll
This is required for all S Corps, even if you’re a solo founder. (Hint: Use Lettuce to automate payroll, tax withholdings, and compliance)
Recommended Partners, Tools, and Services
LLC Filing
Professional LLC registration and registered agent services.
Business Banking
Modern business bank accounts with no fees
Design & Branding
Professional logos and brand materials
CRM Systems
Manage leads and customer relationships
Email Outreach
Find prospects and automate outreach
Bookkeeping & S-Corp
Automated bookkeeping and S-Corp setup
Website Building
Professional websites without coding
Get Started Fast
Complete setup package with all tools integrated
Need Help Setting It All Up?
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Virtual Assistant Support Professional VAs who understand consulting businesses and can handle administrative tasks.
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Website and CRM Setup Complete website design and CRM configuration tailored to your consulting services.
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S-Corp Filing & Bookkeeping Expert handling of S-Corp election and ongoing bookkeeping to maximize tax savings.
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Done-for-You Email Outreach Professional lead generation and email outreach campaigns that book qualified calls.
