4 Important Things You’ll Need to Start a Business

Julie Starr • October 30, 2020



Starting a business is a big decision that requires careful planning to get it off the ground. Many people find it extremely challenging and fail to follow through with their plans. Have you thought of starting a business of your own? Maybe you already did – or maybe you tried and failed and feel the same as  84% of small business owners  who admit that they are willing to do it all over again. Whatever the case may be, here are four things you’ll need to get your business started on the right foot.

  • A business plan

Writing a business plan is the first step to starting a business. Creating a business plan makes it easy for you to identify solutions and provide solutions before experiencing them. You need to figure out the type of business you want to start. Would it be a partnership or sole proprietorship? Maybe it is a 3D printing service you want to create. Then you can learn more  from experts such as RapidPSI. By projecting your results when you commence, you can stay on track and focus on your objectives.

It’s important when you’re creating your business plan that you know how to be flexible. Be an opportunist. Learning to take opportunities that are good for you is important if you want your business to be successful. Franchise opportunities can be a good way for you to get ahead with your business, and they provide a bit of extra security. Some of these opportunities even offer training, so you have a lot to gain!

  • An understanding of your inherent strengths and skills

One of the most important tasks to outsource if you can’t do it alone is your finances. As said above, obtaining help from an accountant will ensure that your business’ finances are always up to date no matter what. It doesn’t matter what type of business you own – finances are important! Whether you’re in the food industry, the fashion industry, or even a nonprofit organization – there is no exception to having your books in order. If you’re a nonprofit, this is even more applicable to you, because having your finances in order will determine the length you can go to make a difference. That said, there are nonprofit bookkeeping services that can assist you with all your bookkeeping needs while you focus on making a lasting difference in the world.

  • Passion for your new business

Being a business owner can be tiring, frustrating, and stressful.  In addition to that, you may be spending all your hours working but unable to accomplish enough. The drive you need at this point is passion. That is what keeps you motivated to achieve results even when you face failures and disappointments.

  • Start small and focus on growth

Perhaps, you do not wish to commit all your financial resources to this new business , so you decide to begin small. Fortunately for you, this is a safe strategy for start-ups. Starting small allows you to monitor progress until you are certain it’s time to go full-time and big. When you start small, you can usually choose to break it up while funding the early stages. For example, if your business is the retailing of skincare products, you can choose to go with one product on social media- slowly introducing your products and attracting clients. Over a period, you may have gained a more considerable following, making it easier to introduce more products.

You may also get all the financial resources you need to kickstart your business by pitching your idea to potential investors. For any startup, the ability to present a solid pitch to investors is crucial to bringing in the financial resources your business needs. Although several factors may determine the success or otherwise of your presentation, having a solid and well-packaged pitch, overall, can capture the attention of investors. Use a startup pitch deck to ensure that you give your startup business a better chance of attracting the right investors.

  • An understanding of your inherent strengths and skills

What are your limitations, strengths, and weaknesses? Knowing how to use each one and translate it into business success is a mark of a good entrepreneur. For example, you should know when to engage external help services such as a lawyer, accountant, or marketing expert. Understanding that you cannot do it all on your own is a character trait you will need when your business becomes a popular one.

It is a good thing to start a business, but you would not succeed without the right tools or skills. Take precautionary steps to ensure that you carry out your operations efficiently and productively. Do not be frightened by big companies within your industry. They all had to go through a grueling process of initialization, understanding the customer, moving past failures, and an unflinching determination to do better over the years. Start with your plan now to start that fantastic business idea.

A Greener Supply Chain with Micro Fulfillment

By Julie Starr • May 23, 2025
A sustainable supply chain is made possible with some major shifts and minor changes that you may not consider at first. One of these is micro fulfillment, where strategically placed warehouses provide streamlined services to a smaller area. So, what are some of the benefits of changing your logistics? From consolidated deliveries to minimal eco-impact, here are a few. Closer Customer Proximity There are a few ways that micro fulfillment centers are revolutionizing the courier industry. Reduced emissions, local sourcing, and support for urban stability are just three of the many examples. Compact logistics are quickly becoming a solution for businesses that want to make a difference, and through small warehouse space for rent , as and when needed, environmental footprints are diminishing as companies deliver services and goods to a smaller customer area. Consolidated Delivery Options Efficiency is everything in business, but it is even more critical when a company is looking to reduce the environmental impact of its operations. Through a micro-fulfillment system, a business is able to reduce the overall number of trips that a courier has to make. With consolidated deliveries concentrated in a smaller geographic area, there are many more options available that contribute to a lower impact, including efficient use of fuel for lower emissions. A Greener Supply Chain with Route Efficiency A company can make many changes when becoming the green link in the supply chain for a healthier logistical operation. However, an average home delivery round for a standard courier service is 50 miles, with 0.42 miles between each drop-off, producing 181g of carbon each. Focusing on a smaller area through micro fulfillment reduce the associated issues with couriers: Being closer to delivery routes reduces the need for extra shipping options. Electric delivery vehicles can be used as there is no need to recharge them. Knowledge of the area helps with routes as drivers can avoid congested areas. Lower Environmental Impact Of course, all efforts to go green and become more sustainable through logistics are to reduce the environmental impact that a business has on the area. Micro fulfillment contributes to this in a way that a wider operation cannot. Shorter routes and enhanced inventory management actively reduce waste. There is also much less energy used, as micro fulfillment centers are designed to be energy-efficient, and EVs and less transport contribute to emission reduction. Enhanced Socioeconomic Benefits There is also a social and economic impact of a business. An enhanced and more sustainable business using local micro fulfillment centers instantly creates more jobs, helping to prop up the local economy. Of course, the efficiency of this type of logistical operation also results in happier customers, increasing the chance of repeat business. From a business perspective, you demonstrate a commitment to ongoing sustainability , appealing to eco-conscious customers. Summary Being closer to customers for delivery helps create a greener supply chain when used with micro fulfillment centers. Local couriers and employees also know the area and can avoid congested areas for streamlined operations. However, there are also social and economic benefits such as job creation, improved customer experiences, and enhanced brand reputation.

Sustainability in Ecommerce: 3 Ways to Make Progress Where It Matters

By Julie Starr • May 21, 2025
Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have—it's essential. That’s true across every industry, and ecommerce is no exception. But let’s be honest: building a more sustainable ecommerce business isn’t always straightforward. From packaging to supply chains to last-mile delivery, the challenges are real—and often feel like they’re outside your control. But here’s the good news: sustainable ecommerce is absolutely possible. And it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Small, strategic shifts can make a meaningful difference—not just for the planet, but for your customers and your brand’s longevity. Here are three actionable ways you can move the needle toward a more environmentally responsible ecommerce business. Choose Sustainable Packaging That Works for People and Planet Packaging is often one of the most visible and wasteful—aspects of ecommerce. From oversized boxes to plastic fillers, the impact adds up fast. But it doesn’t have to. Thoughtful, sustainable packaging design can dramatically reduce your environmental footprint. Start by right-sizing your shipments to reduce excess material and emissions. Opt for recycled, recyclable, or compostable materials that align with circular economy principles. Better yet, one option is to design custom boxes with sustainable materials, for example. These custom packaging solutions eliminate unnecessary layers while enhancing your brand’s presentation. These aren’t just more sustainable choices, they’re smarter ones. Today’s customers care about where materials come from, and where they end up. Your packaging can reflect your commitment to both. Partner with Purpose: Choose Sustainable Suppliers Your supply chain is an extension of your brand and one of the most powerful levers you have to reduce your environmental impact. You could end up using more than a few suppliers when you’re running an ecommerce company . It’s always worth making sure these are as sustainable as possible . While you may not control every aspect of your suppliers’ operations, you do control who you choose to work with. Prioritize suppliers who share your commitment to sustainability. Look for transparency in sourcing, third-party certifications, and a clear track record of environmental and ethical practices. Ask the right questions: Are their materials responsibly sourced? Do they minimize waste and emissions? How do they treat their workforce? Choosing partners who align with your values not only improves the sustainability of your products—it strengthens your brand’s integrity and resilience. When your supply chain reflects your mission, it creates trust and long-term value across your business. Lead with Impact: Promote Environmental Awareness Sustainability doesn’t stop at your supply chain. As an ecommerce business, you have a unique platform to elevate environmental causes and inspire meaningful change within and beyond your operations. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of highlighting and supporting various sustainable initiatives and causes around the world. One powerful way to do this is by supporting organizations and initiatives that align with your values. Whether it’s donating a portion of your profits, partnering with mission-driven nonprofits, or amplifying important causes across your website and social channels, your advocacy matters. By shining a light on solutions and inviting your customers to participate, you strengthen your brand’s purpose and build a community rooted in shared responsibility. This isn’t just good for the planet; it’s good for business. Sustainable ecommerce is entirely possible. With the right mindset and a few strategic shifts, your business can lead with integrity, reduce its footprint, and become part of a much-needed transformation in the digital economy.