In this chapter, you will start a business from the ground up. Non-profits are businesses, so this information applies 501c3s as well as for-profit side hustles. The only difference between the two is that a non-profit has a tax-exempt designation from the IRS.

Every side hustle needs an ‘identity’. It needs a name, a legal structure, licenses (maybe several), insurance (probably), and a bank account. Your company might need a patent, or a trademark. Everything on your website will be copywritten. And yes, you do need a website.

The contents of this chapter are a matter of public record. You can search ‘how to start a business’ and get dozens of clear and concise instructions. The Small Business Administration (SBA) includes a wealth of information and a step-by-step guide. I just explain things from my perspective.

Brainstorm good business names then ask friends and family to weigh in. Do internet searches on the name. Go to a website hosting provider (SiteGround, GoDaddy, etc.) and search for the name to see of a domain is available. Once you determine if the name is available from a public standpoint, head on over (online, not in person) to your Secretary of State’s website to see if the name is available for registration.