From idea to first dollar, one step at a time.
Each step gives you one decision to make and one next action. Work through them in order — skip ahead only if you have already done the earlier steps.
- 1
Step 1 of 5Start here
Choose your business model
Pick what you'll sell and how you'll make money. Affiliate marketing is one option here, alongside services, products, content, and others.
TimeAn afternoonFinish lineYou know what you'll sellBegin step - 2
Step 2 of 5
Get your domain and website foundation
Register a domain, set up hosting, and get a basic site online so customers can find you.
TimeA weekendFinish lineYour site is liveOpen step - 3
Step 3 of 5
Set up your business structure
Form an LLC (or other entity), get your EIN, and open a business bank account.
TimeA few hoursFinish lineYou're a real businessOpen step - 4
Step 4 of 5
Build your audience
Set up an email list and start building an audience you own, instead of renting reach from social platforms.
TimeOngoingFinish lineYou own a listOpen step - 5
Step 5 of 5
Get paid
Pick a payment processor, send invoices, and get money from the customer to your business bank account.
TimeAbout an hourFinish lineYou can take moneyOpen step
The finish line
You're live — and open for business
Finish all five and you have a real business online that can take money. More steps — marketing, and getting your first customers — land here as they're written.