How to Start a Successful Financial Business: A Guide for Your First Steps

Julie Starr • July 8, 2022



Are you thinking about starting a business venture related to financial services? You aren’t the only one. The financial services industry is growing rapidly, and new businesses are constantly emerging to meet the rising demand for financial products and services. If you have a passion for helping people manage their money and invest wisely, opening your own financial business might be the perfect opportunity for you. But starting any business can be challenging, especially if it’s in an industry you’re not overly familiar with. To succeed as a financial advisor, consultant, or agent, you’ll need to do your research, plan ahead and follow best practices. This article will help you understand why now is the right time to start your own financial business. Additionally, we will explore the pros and cons of becoming an independent contractor vs. an employee at another company; outline some ideas to consider when choosing what type of business entity is right for you; delve into what kind of licenses and permits you may need to operate your new business, and offer advice on coming up with a name that sticks as well as other branding tips.

Why Now Is the Right Time to Start a Financial Business

For several reasons, the financial services industry has been experiencing rapid growth and high demand for years. Firstly, the population is growing and aging, and more people need financial guidance. Additionally, people are working longer into retirement and therefore have more money to invest. People are also saving more for retirement, which is a great sign. This, in turn, makes it an excellent time to start a financial business and has never been easier. Years ago, a financial advisor who wanted to create their own company would need to get a broker-dealer license. This process was expensive and could take a considerable amount of time. Today, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has created a new regulatory framework called the Investment Advisor Regulation (IAR) that allows financial advisors to operate as fiduciaries with less administrative overhead. Becoming an IAR-registered advisor is cheaper and easier than obtaining a broker-dealer license, which means more people can start their financial businesses . There is also more competition among financial services providers than ever before — making it more likely that you will be able to attract customers.

Another reason now is a great time to start a financial business is that technology has made it easier to serve your clients. You can provide your clients with financial advice, help them manage their money, and even design a financial plan for them all online — saving you time and money.

The Advantages of Starting a Financial Business

Starting your own financial business has many advantages. First and foremost, it allows you to pursue a career you are passionate about. Many people employed in the financial services industry become tired of working with clients who are struggling financially. Working for yourself, you can work with clients who are where they want to be in life financially and are happy to have your support. You will be able to help people — and make a living doing it — which will make you feel good and give purpose to your work.

Another advantage of starting a financial business is choosing the type of clients you work with. If you are sick of the type of clients that big banks and other financial companies employ, you can choose to work with clients who are similar to you and want the same kind of help that you want to give. You can also choose to work with clients in a different place in life than the ones you worked with when employed. For example, you can work with young people who are just starting out or with retiring people who have many questions about their finances. Another advantage of starting your own financial business is the flexibility it offers. You can set your schedule and decide on your hours. This can be incredibly helpful if you have children or other dependents. You can choose when they need you the most and plan your work accordingly.

The Disadvantages of Starting a Financial Business

There are also a couple of disadvantages to starting your own financial business. First and foremost, it is challenging. Starting a new business is never easy, and you will likely face many challenges. You will need to put a lot of time and effort into marketing your business and getting the word out about who you are and what you do. You will need to spend time on administrative tasks, such as filing paperwork, getting licenses and permits, and ensuring that your company complies with all the necessary regulations and laws. You will need to find clients, which can be difficult if you don’t know where to look, and keep them loyal to your business — a challenge every financial advisor faces. You will also be responsible for paying all your business’s expenses and taxes, which can be costly.

When You Should Not Start a Financial Business

There are a few situations where it is probably not the best idea to start your own financial business. First, if you don’t have any experience in the financial services industry, it might be challenging to get clients and succeed as a financial advisor. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try, but having realistic expectations and a backup plan is essential if it takes longer than expected to get your business off the ground. Another situation in which you might not want to open your own financial business is if you don’t have much money to invest. A financial business is an ongoing expense, and it might take a long time to start seeing a return on your investment. It might be better to find a job in the financial industry, where you will get a steady paycheck and only have to worry about investing enough time and energy into your work.

Determine Which Type of Entity is Right for Your Company

There are various types of companies that you can form as the legal entity that houses your financial business. Common business entities include sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies, and corporations. A financial business is likely to be a sole proprietorship or a block if it is just you running it. Of course, you can also set up an LLC or corporation for your business, but there are a few factors you will want to consider, such as how much money is your company making? What are the risks associated with your business? What legal factors do you want to consider?

Pick Which Licenses and Permits Are Needed for Your Company

Depending on the type of financial services business you decide to open, you will need to obtain various licenses and permits. This is especially important if you provide financial advice and want to protect your clients and yourself from being scammed. You’ll want to research debt and asset-related licenses, investment advisor licenses, general solicitation licenses, etc., to ensure you get the right ones for your business.

Come up with a Company Name and Branding Strategy

When it comes to naming a financial services company , it is imperative to come up with a good name since the name of your company is the first thing people will see when they look at your website or come across you on social media. It will help them decide whether they want to work with you or not. When naming your company, remember the following: 1. Make it memorable, 2. Make it easy to spell, 3. Make it easy to pronounce.

Summing up

Starting a financial business is a challenging undertaking but can be very rewarding. You will be able to help people manage their money, set up financial plans, and build wealth through wise investing and saving decisions. The first step to starting your own business is to assess if the financial services industry is right for you and if you are prepared for the challenges of running a business. Next, you will need to choose which type of business entity will work best for your company. Finally, you will need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits, develop a company name, and develop a branding strategy to help your clients know who you are and trust you as their financial advisor.

The financial services industry is growing rapidly, and new businesses are constantly emerging to meet the rising demand for financial products and services. If you have a passion for helping people manage their money and invest wisely, opening your own financial business might be the perfect opportunity for you.

Eco-Friendly Garden Prep: Summer Tips for a Greener Business Space

By Julie Starr • June 5, 2025
If you're lucky enough to have a garden as part of your business, taking some time to set it up for summer is a great investment of your energy. Not only will it be ready for your customers to spend time in, but you can also incorporate some eco-friendly elements into it. Many people just think about the property and what eco-friendly updates they can make , but there are plenty that you can implement in your garden. This gives you the best of both worlds. You own a sacred and beautiful place for your customers to spend their summer, and at the same time, you can do your part for a better planet. If this is the route you want to take, then you also need to consider how to do this with the different seasons. To help you on your journey, here are some top tips for preparing your garden for summer. Plant trees and flowers Planting trees and flowers in your garden is a must. It will make a beautiful scene of nature for everyone to enjoy. Trees will provide people and animals with shade, as well as provide a habitat for wildlife. More trees are needed in the world because they purify the air that we breathe. Flowers, especially if you plant with pollinators in mind, can be an excellent way to attract bees and butterflies, which contribute largely to the earth. Use natural pest control When preparing your garden for summer, you can do this more sustainably and kindly by using natural pest control. Simply by planting trees and flowers, you are likely to attract lots of different wildlife, some of which may destroy your efforts. While all wildlife should be considered, you may need to take measures. Some better and more eco-friendly ways you can do this, as opposed to spraying toxic chemicals onto your plants and into the air, you can implement companion planting, using protective nets over your crops, choosing resilient plants, using natural repellents, and encouraging natural predators so nature can do its thing. Maintain your garden Maintaining your garden in itself can make it more eco-friendly. Composting your garden waste regularly, and kitchen waste can help you to reduce overall waste and create nutrient-rich soil. This is a great cycle of sustainability. You can also keep on top of things that need cleaning and replacing, so you can recycle the materials for other garden structures and projects, and repurpose things around your garden before they become waste. If you have features in your garden like a swimming pool, then a regular pool maintenance service is going to be vital in keeping your water consumption to a minimum, as when it is cleaned and maintained, it will need to be drained and refilled less as well as using less energy. You could also consider how you can use natural purification methods to reduce chemical usage and support biodiversity right in your backyard. Your garden is just an eco-friendly project waiting to be built. Use these top tips to help you get started.

The Impact of Sustainable Practices on the Food Service Industry

By Julie Starr • June 3, 2025
Sustainability is no longer something that can be considered optional in many businesses, including the food industry. From fast casual to fine dining, businesses face pressure to reduce waste, cut emissions, and use resources responsibly. Customers noticed, so too did regulators. This shift isn't about trends; it's about long-term business health. Operators now rethink everything: ingredients, packaging, equipment, and even furniture. The choices that they make affect cost, reputation, and the environment. Forward-thinking brands see sustainability as a chance to stand out, align with customer values, save money, and future-proof their business. Let's look at how sustainable practices are shaping the future of food service and why furniture choices matter more than ever. Sustainable Sourcing and Supply Chains Restaurants are choosing local, seasonal, and organic ingredients. More often, this reduces transportation emissions and supports nearby farms. It also appeals to customers who want food with a story. Sourcing matters; a restaurant that serves organic produce imported from thousands of miles away loses credibility. Local sourcing, when possible, keeps the supply chain shorter and more resilient. They also build community relationships. Sustainable seafood, fair trade coffee, and certified humane meat are becoming menu standards. But it's not just food; suppliers that use low-impact materials, avoid single-use plastics, or operate zero-waste facilities are getting more attention. Working with responsible vendors reduces environmental impact and strengthens the restaurant's reputation. It also makes it easier to meet sustainability benchmarks and certifications. Reducing Food Waste and Single-Use Plastics Food waste is expensive. Restaurants are responding with better forecasting, smaller portions, and creative ways to repurpose ingredients. Many now donate leftovers or compost scraps. Smart kitchen systems have reduced waste by tracking usage and spoilage. Front of house, more places encourage guests to take home leftovers or offer flexible portion sizes. Single-use plastics are also being phased out; straws, cutlery, and containers are switching to compostable or reusable versions. Many cities now require this, but even without mandates, customers expect it. Small changes make a big difference, such as swapping plastic lids for fiber-based ones or using reusable containers for takeout. In the long run, it also sends a clear message about your brand Energy Efficiency and Equipment Choices Energy use is a major cost for food service businesses. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and HVAC systems can contribute significantly. Induction cooktops, LED lighting , low-flow faucets, and energy-saving refrigeration reduce the environmental footprint. Some kitchens are even going all-electric to reduce reliance on gas. Smart energy monitoring systems provide real-time insights; this helps operators find waste, track trends, and make better decisions. Beyond the kitchen, some restaurants invest in solar panels or purchase renewable energy. It shows leadership and appeals to customers who care about climate action. Designing with Sustainability in Mind Interior design now plays a role in sustainability. Choosing eco-friendly materials and modular furniture reduces waste and supports the circular economy. Furniture companies that sell food service furniture offer tables, chairs, and booths made from recycled or responsibly sourced wood, metal, and plastics. Their products are durable, stylish, and built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Long-lasting furniture means fewer items in landfills. Plus, some suppliers offer take-back programs or extended product life. The right furniture also supports flexible layouts, which is important for adapting to changing service models like outdoor dining or shared spaces. Aligning with Customer Expectations More diners care about sustainability than ever before. It’s something that is extremely prominent in today’s dining experience. They want to support places that reflect their values. Transparency matters too , diners want to know exactly what businesses are doing to be more sustainable. Posting sourcing details, using certifications, and showing behind-the-scenes efforts builds trust. Sustainability isn't just a back-of-house concern; it should be visible throughout the customer journey. Guests notice packaging, signage, cleaning products, and even furniture. If your chairs are made from reclaimed wood or your tables are built from recycled metal, it becomes part of the story you tell. Employees also want to work for businesses that care; sustainability efforts can boost morale, improve retention, and create a strong workplace culture. Being consistent across all touchpoints helps turn sustainability from a checklist into a core part of your brand identity. Tracking Progress and Measuring Impact To stay on track, businesses need to measure what matters. Sustainability isn't guesswork; it's data-driven. Many restaurants now set goals for waste reduction, water usage, and carbon emissions. Digital dashboards, smart meters, and waste tracking apps provide clear feedback. Certifications like LEED , Green Restaurant Association, or B Corp can help validate progress, but the real value comes from aligning with goals and quickly reporting results. This transparency involves sharing results with staff and customers. This builds trust and shows accountability. Food service brands that track their impact tend to improve faster; they spot problems early and share wins more confidently. A culture of measurement helps maintain steady progress and keeps sustainability top of mind. Collaborating Across the Industry No restaurant can do it alone. Real change happens through partnerships. Food services need ot consider teaming up with local farms, recycling programs, and talking to local councils about any green schemes . This collaboration speeds up progress and helps avoid mistakes. Industry groups and supply networks now host workshops and certifications focused on sustainability. These shared resources help smaller businesses catch up and stay competitive. Technology platforms also make collaboration easier. Apps that connect surplus food with charities or tools for joint purchasing of sustainable goods are helping restaurants work smarter together. By building strong networks, the industry strengthens itself. Working together, sustainability leads to better outcomes and stronger communities. Conclusion: Building a Sustainable Future in Food Service Sustainability touches every part of the food service industry, from menus to materials. The shift toward responsible choices is clear. Restaurants that act now gain a competitive edge; they reduce costs, attract loyal customers, and stay ahead of regulations. The transition doesn't have to be all or nothing; small steps lead to big changes. Choosing eco-friendly furniture, like the options from food service furniture, is one of the smart steps. It shows commitment, supports long-term value, and elevates the dining experience. Sustainability is no longer an add-on; it’s a business essential. For those who embrace it, it can be a source of growth, loyalty, and resilience.