BUSINESS START-UP TOOLKIT
The City of Millersville welcomes your entrepreneurial spirit and hopes to partner with you for a successful business venture. To help you succeed, we have provided a Business Start-Up Toolkit, below. Our goal is to make it easier for you to prosper as you create your vision.
Whether this is a home-based business or a full commercial endeavor the following information will be helpful as your plan the business of your dreams.
1. Gather Information- To start a business is a major undertaking and a huge commitment. Be sure you are well informed.
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Contact the Business Licensing Department at the City of Millersville, (615) 859-0880, Ext. 102
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Depending on your business type, you may need to contact the Health Department in the county (Robertson, Sumner) in which your business will be located.
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Forward Sumner can assist with site specific information and offers economic development services for Sumner County.
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Instructions for opening a business in Tennessee can be found on the Department of Revenue web page.
2. Create a Business Plan - This is one of the most important steps.
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Write out your mission statement;
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Pinpoint your target audience;
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Know what your objectives are and how you plan to meet them; and
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Consider the demographics and the market.
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Use tools such as writing a SWOT “Strengths”, “Weaknesses”, “Opportunities” and “Threats”. Using these tools will provide valuable insight into areas that directly affect your business.
3. Assess Your Employment Needs - Plan your employee schedule and hire qualified workers. For information on Employer Identification Number visit the IRS website. Keep in mind that if you add employees to your new business, additional Federal, State and Local regulations may apply.
4. Find Start-Up Financing - Find a lender willing to help new businesses get started; be prepared to share your business plan. The City of Millersville has one financial institute, The Farmers Bank, but there are a vast number of lenders in close proximity.
5. Find Real Estate - Meet with the City Planner to discuss a location for your endeavor.
6. Register your Business - Most new businesses require a Tax Identification Number and registration of the Business Name.
7. Obtain Permits and Licenses - Most likely you will need to obtain a Business License from the State of Tennessee and a Business License from the City of Millersville. Once you have completed the application for a business license with the city, the application is sent to the Codes Department for a zoning review and a possible change of use inspection.
Consider the Four P’s of Marketing - Product, Place, Price, and Promotion.
