Do you know how to open a company? Have you ever thought about becoming an entrepreneur? The answer is yes, but are your ideas a bit confused?
This guide will offer an overview of the main information you need to know to open a business.
We will ask ourselves questions and provide answers, so everything will be clearer.
IN WHICH SECTORS IS IT POSSIBLE TO OPEN A COMPANY?
The company is an economic body that produces goods or provides services. Our economic system places companies according to the sector in which they operate:
- Primary (e.g. agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry and fishing);
- Secondary (e.g. manufacturing, mining, manufacturing, construction industry);
- Tertiary (service activities, e.g. public administration).
WHAT KIND OF COMPANY IS POSSIBLE TO OPEN?
Another key distinction between business types is profit-making. There are companies that work to make a profit, which is destined for the owner or shareholders of the company.
But there are also ” non-profit ” companies, ie non-profit companies. Onlus, non-profit organizations of social utility, are an example of this.
They are companies managed by managers, which operate with the constraint of cost coverage, but do not distribute profits to owners or partners. You decide what kind of company you want to open.
WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF COMPANIES IN WHICH COMPANIES ARE DIFFERENT?
The companies are divided into partnerships (Snc and Sas) and joint-stock companies (Srl and SpA). If you want to open a company of this type, you need to know the main characteristics.
nc – General partnership
They need a written document registered with the Business Office. It must contain particulars of the shareholders, company name of the company, indication of the representation of the company. Furthermore, the corporate purpose, indication of the registered office, contributions, mandatory services, duration of the company and methods of distribution of profits and losses.
The members are indefinitely and jointly liable for the corporate obligations, sums cannot be distributed among the members if not actually profits obtained.
aS – Limited partnership
In this type of company, the partners are divided into general partners and limited partners. The former have greater obligations and responsibilities. The limited partners are liable for joint and several obligations limited to the share conferred, while the general partners are liable without limitation. However, the latter can represent the company and have their names appear in the company name.
rl – Limited Liability Company
It is a capital company and responds to social obligations with its own assets. The characteristic of this company is the presence of a single shareholder.
pA (Joint Stock Company)
It is a capital company with financial autonomy and the qualification of shareholder is obtained through the purchase of shares. The shareholders, however, do not manage the company nor can they take direct knowledge of the documentation relating to the administration activity. The meeting is convened only in particular cases of loss. It is possible to establish a joint stock company by unilateral act, that is with a single shareholder.
Limited partnership by shares
It presents elements of the SpA and the Sas The shareholders are divided into general partners, or directors who are jointly and unlimitedly liable for the corporate obligations, and limited partners, who must only make the contributions to which they are obliged to subscribe for the shares.
Cooperative
Type of company with variable capital, non-profit type. They are non-profit organizations, but which provide members with services at favorable conditions. The cooperative must be established by public deed and 9 is the minimum number of members.
WHAT IF I CHOOSE THE INDIVIDUAL BUSINESS?
Opening a company as a sole proprietorship means that there will be a single person, who will be the owner of the full management of the company.
To do this, the opening of the VAT number is mandatory. And the appropriate licenses will also be required, depending on the type of company you intend to open.
THE FUNDAMENTAL STEPS TO OPEN A COMPANY
- Get an idea
It may seem trivial, but before making a risky move, you need an idea for setting up the company. The ideal is that this is an activity that you are passionate about, since it will be YOUR company.
- Consider whether it is achievable
Ask yourself about the validity of your idea. Would people really pay for what you sell? Will your work pay off? Is it a realistic and innovative project? Or are there already too many similar ones?
- Make a business plan
It is important to determine the cost of the operation, also to determine if the business is profitable. You also need to determine your potential market, in the most realistic way possible, and not underestimate the impediments and contingencies. And know the regulations and laws regarding the industry. Especially when it comes to taxes and permits. Ask the authorities in your area and read the legislation in force.
- Write a marketing plan
You will need to establish a budget to devote to promotion and advertising. Decide on what spaces and when to invest, or choose to use social networks. Everyone will need to know the company you intend to open.
- Get funding
Contact your bank to find out about the types of loans offered to start-ups. And how they can benefit your business. If bank loans aren’t enough, look for investors where you live (venture capitalists, angel investors, friends, relatives …) or use crowdfunding.
- Building the infrastructure
Look for an office, a space from which to manage the business, buy equipment and set up a system to record income and expenses.
- Create a customer base
Focus on marketing and public relations, especially in the beginning. Also open a website, it has now become almost mandatory to make yourself known.
- Get paid
Firmly request payments due to you, do not ignore delays or failures. It also accepts credit cards and sets up a web-controlled payment system.
Now you have all the main information to understand how to open a company. You just have to figure out what the best strategy is and be determined towards your goal. These guidelines will lead you on the path to success.
