Entrepreneurial Journey Map Phase 2: Launch

The goal of this stage is to begin business operations and gain traction (customers buying product/service).

Milestones

The milestones of this stage are outlined below along with a clear purpose and description as well as a list of support partners who offer resources for each milestone. 

Minimum Viable Product

To finalize a minimum viable product or service which could be purchased by a customer. This may include manufacturing of a product, formalizing a service line, or launching of a new application or platform.

Operational Start-Up Administration

To formalize the establishment of a new business. This may include foundational administrative tasks necessary for starting a business, such as registering the company name, achieving insurance and setting up essential legal documents.

Branding

To create a brand to represent you and your company. This may include visioning, customer engagement, logo development and/or branding guidelines. This often extends to an online presence such as website, sales portal and/or social media channels.

Intellectual Property

To protect your innovations through patents, trademarks, or copyrights as appropriate.

HR Practices/Policies

To develop human resources. This may include the development of policies and practices to manage your team effectively. This may include the development of human resource policies and procedures, the retention of staff and preparation of employee training programs.

Legal/Contract Development

To develop the necessary documents and contracts to safeguard your business interests. This may include the development of sales contracts, non-disclosure agreements, employment contracts and/or legal compliance review.

Networking

To build relationships with the intention of expanding your customer base. This could include networking in communities where your audience is present and/or building relationships with other businesses to create opportunities for partnerships and growth known as "Business to Business" or B2B networking.

Sales Development

To facilitate the sales of products and services. This may include the building or recruitment of a sales platform, creation of a sales pitch and development of a sales strategy to generate revenue.