WANT TO DEVELOP AN ABA AGENCY?: 10 TIPS ON HOW TO GET STARTED

Congratulations on wanting to take the first steps to develop your own ABA agency!  This can be a rewarding yet overwhelming endeavor if you do not know where to begin.  In this blog I look to offer you some tips on how to develop your agency.

1. COME UP WITH YOUR ABA AGENCY NAME.

Before you get started with your ABA agency, you will want to research and come up with your name.  It is possible that someone else might have already picked the name you wanted.  The best way to check is through your state's business registry website.  You can then find out if someone currently has your business name and adjust it accordingly.  Remember to think about what might drive an audience or client to your ABA agency and do not select a name that is either too ambiguous or specific.  You also want to think of something that might catchy and easy for someone to remember.

2. DEVELOP A BUSINESS PLAN.

In order for any business to be successful there must be a clear roadmap of where the organization is going.  You will want to figure out what is your organization's mission, what services are being offered, what services are being offered, who your competitors will be in the area, etc.  The U.S. Small Business Administration has some great resources on business plan development and often have local offices where you can meet with professionals for coaching for developing your business.

3. SPEAK WITH AN ATTORNEY and accountant.

To begin your agency you will need to complete paperwork to register your business in your state and with the federal government.  You can do this on your own, but it is advisable to have an attorney and/or an accountant involved to assist you with this process to ensure that you have done everything correctly.  Also, determine all of your insurances that will be needed (e.g., general liability, worker's compensation, professional liability, etc.)

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