Guy Kawasaki likes to start his speeches with a top-ten list based on the topic he is speaking about.  When it comes to the list of most important things an entrepreneur must accomplish, his list has only five.

1. Make Meaning – create a product or service that makes the world a better place.

2. Make Mantra – take your meaning and make a mantra out of it.  This will set the right course.

3. Get Going – start creating and delivering your product or service.

4. Define Your Business Model – figure out a way to make money.  The greatest idea, technology, product, or service is short-lived without a sustainable business model.

5. Weave a MAT (Milestones, Assumptions and Tasks) – compile three lists: (a) major milestones you need to meet; (b) assumptions that are built into your business model; and (c) tasks you need to accomplish to create an organization.

In a list of FAQ (Frequently Avoided Questions) in Kawasaki’s The Art of the Start

Q: Should I share my secret ideas with anybody other than my dog?
A: There is more to be gained – feedback, connections, opened doors – by freely discussing your idea than there is to lose.

Q: How far along should I be before I start talking to people about what I’m going?
A: Start right away.  By doing so you’ll be constantly mulling over your idea.  The more people you talk to, the richer your thoughts will be.

Q: I think that I have a great idea, but I don’t have a business background.  What should I do now?
A: Assuming that you have an idea you can implement, recruit a mentor, someone who is willing to coach you from time to rime but never actually do any work.

Q: When should I worry about looking like a real business, with business cards, letterhead and an office?
A: Make business cards and letterhead immediately.  Get an office when the time is right.

Q: Do I need a Web site?
A: Yes, particularly if you’re going to raise money, serve lots of customers, change the world in a big way, and achieve liquidity.  Customers, partners, and investors will look for your Web site from the very start.

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Did you know that the Center for Business Innovation at the Cumberland Business Incubator is the “one-stop-shop” created specifically to address the issues I’ve included above?  Here are a few examples:

• One-to-one business coaching for startups and existing businesses
• Co.Starters – a 9 week program to validate and refine your business idea right out of the gate – before you spend time developing a business plan
• Social Media Marketing Framework – to develop your social media marketing plan
• Networking and Numbers at Noon – understand your financial statements one bite at a time
• CEO Roundtable – the business owners’ discussion group
• Office space, manufacturing space, labs, co-working spaces, conference rooms and classroom
• ….any many more workshops, classes and Lunch and Learn programs

Check out the calendar that you’ll find elsewhere in this newsletter to learn more about the spaces available and the programs we have planned including dates, times and registration information.

I look forward to seeing you at the CBI – Center for Business Innovation at the Cumberland Business Incubator.