Future-Ready Entrepreneur Checklist

Looking to take control of your career and go from employee to entrepreneur? This checklist helps you to get started on your business journey

Foundation Readiness

• [ ] Clear business concept with defined target market

• [ ] Market research conducted to validate demand

• [ ] Unique value proposition articulated

• [ ] Business model with clear revenue streams defined

• [ ] Initial financial projections completed (12-24 months)

• [ ] Personal emergency fund established (3-6 months of expenses)

• [ ] Business registered with appropriate Canadian authorities

• [ ] Business banking accounts established separately from personal accounts

Operations Infrastructure

• [ ] Core business processes documented

• [ ] Project/task management system implemented

• [ ] Customer relationship management (CRM) solution selected

• [ ] Digital tools for productivity and collaboration identified

• [ ] Payment processing system established

• [ ] Accounting system implemented

• [ ] Data backup and security protocols established

• [ ] Virtual or physical workspace optimized for productivity

Skills & Knowledge Assessment

• [ ] Industry-specific technical skills inventory completed

• [ ] Financial literacy self-assessment conducted

• [ ] Digital marketing capabilities evaluated

• [ ] Sales process knowledge assessed

• [ ] Time management and productivity systems established

• [ ] Leadership and team management approach defined

• [ ] Negotiation and contract management skills evaluated

• [ ] Customer service philosophy and standards established

Growth & Scaling Preparation

• [ ] Growth metrics defined and tracking system established

• [ ] Client acquisition strategy documented

• [ ] Networking and partnership opportunities identified

• [ ] Content strategy for thought leadership developed

• [ ] Automation opportunities for routine tasks identified

• [ ] Delegation strategy for non-core activities planned

• [ ] Contingency plans for various growth scenarios prepared

• [ ] Exit or succession planning considerations documented

Canadian-Specific Considerations

• [ ] GST/HST registration requirements understood

• [ ] Provincial business regulations researched and addressed

• [ ] Canadian tax obligations and potential deductions identified

• [ ] Canadian grants and support programs for entrepreneurs explored

• [ ] Local business networks and resources identified

• [ ] Industry-specific Canadian regulations understood

• [ ] Canadian intellectual property protection needs assessed

• [ ] Canadian privacy laws compliance requirements addressed

Digital Presence Development

• [ ] Domain name secured

• [ ] Professional email established

• [ ] Website or online presence created

• [ ] Social media accounts established on relevant platforms

• [ ] Google Business Profile optimized

• [ ] Online review management strategy developed

• [ ] Digital content creation process established

• [ ] Analytics set up to track online performance

Financial Management Fundamentals

• [ ] Startup costs fully calculated

• [ ] Pricing strategy established

• [ ] Cash flow projection created

• [ ] Invoicing system implemented

• [ ] Expense tracking system established

• [ ] Tax obligation schedule created

• [ ] Financial review cadence established

• [ ] Financial contingency plan developed

Work-Life Integration Planning

• [ ] Working hours and availability defined

• [ ] Boundaries established with clients/customers

• [ ] Physical workspace ergonomically optimized

• [ ] Support network of fellow entrepreneurs established

• [ ] Health and wellness maintenance plan created

• [ ] Productivity rhythms identified and leveraged

• [ ] Family/personal commitments protected in schedule

• [ ] Regular business performance reviews scheduled

How to Use Your Score:

• 56-64 checks: Entrepreneur Ready – You've built a solid foundation for success

• 40-55 checks: Nearly There – Focus on addressing your unchecked items

• 24-39 checks: Building Momentum – Prioritize foundational elements first

• 0-23 checks: Early Stages – Consider working with a business advisor to develop your readiness plan

Next Steps: Contact Intero Solutions for a comprehensive Operations as a Service consultation to address your specific operational gaps and accelerate your entrepreneurial journey with confidence.

This checklist is provided by Intero Solutions as a free resource for aspiring Canadian entrepreneurs. For personalized operational support, contact our team at info@interosolutions.ca