{"id":36085,"date":"2025-01-20T12:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-01-20T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/?p=36085"},"modified":"2026-04-15T17:43:39","modified_gmt":"2026-04-15T15:43:39","slug":"how-to-start-a-startup","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ie.edu\/uncover-ie\/how-to-start-a-startup\/","title":{"rendered":"How to start a startup: Tips for entrepreneurs from idea to launch"},"content":{"rendered":"<\/span> 6<\/span> min read<\/span><\/span>\n

Every mother’s son calls themself an entrepreneur these days. Instagram’s full of it\u2014get-rich-quick experts<\/a> looking for a quick buck without the hard work. At IE Business School<\/a>, however, we champion the true entrepreneur. And that’s why you’re here. Some part of you wonders how to start a startup. We salute you. And we’d like to help. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Read on to see our startup business tips for entrepreneurs and the obstacles you’ll face along the journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is a startup?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

First things first, what is a startup? We tend to think of a “startup” as any company in its earliest operations. They’re makeshift enterprises where one or two entrepreneurs are pedaling a hot new product for niche demand. A startup takes a lot of money to launch and doesn’t usually bring in much money. As such, startups have to look to angel investors and venture capitalists to get off the ground. It’s risky business. In fact, we feel obligated to give you a grim statistic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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90% of startups fail.<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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There. Here’s the reference link<\/a>, change your pants and let’s move on. In fact, let’s focus on the positives: AirBnB, Instagram, Pinterest, Pandora, Uber. Recognize these names? They were all startups once upon a time. Now Uber has generated over $37 billion<\/a> in revenue. So\u2014the odds may not be in your favor, but fortune favors the brave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to create a startup?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

So, it’s all very exciting in theory. But how to start a small business from idea to operations? Here are a few tips that will really make a difference as you throw you hat in the ring. The last part may surprise you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plan for change<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When learning how to create a startup company, it’s paramount that you stay adaptable. Stay adaptable by listening to feedback and keeping up with industry trends. Businesses that evolve with customer needs are more likely to thrive in the long term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make a great idea your starting point<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To start, identify a problem and offer a solution. Your idea doesn\u2019t have to be completely new; improving existing products, like Apple does with regular updates, can lead to success. From there, create a solid business plan covering products, market analysis, finances, and operations\u2014this is crucial for securing funding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Put the work in<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Now it’s time to put the work in. Get funding wherever you can. Loans, investors, friends and family. Make sure your cost estimates are solid, as this tends to be where most startups fail. Get a team of advisors, lawyers and accountants together that you trust. Then, finally, apply for a business license, get it registered and set up your contracts. With a digital or in-person location secured, you’re ready to go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Do I need a business plan to start a startup?<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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You’d be surprised. Some think a business plan is essential, others think it slows things down. But research shows businesses with a plan grow 30% faster and have better chances of success. A plan doesn’t equal success. But it does provide you with a roadmap to fall back on when things get turbulent. Potential funders will also feel reassured by your having one. We suggest you keep plans flexible in the early stages and adjust as things change. The main thing is taking action\u2014to which a plan is only a precursor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n