8. Create and Register a Business Name
After you’ve had a conversation with your accountant and lawyer, it’s time to register your name. The process will differ by country and even regionally, learn more about how to register your business name in Canada here.
First, ensure your name is available. The quickest way to find out is through an online search. Type your desired name into every major search engine. Check social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Then, reference your state and national registries.
If you plan to conduct business in multiple countries, be sure to check for the name’s use in those countries as well. There are local government services you use to double-check that the name isn’t owned by someone else as well. Again, you’ll need to conduct an online search to find each of those services, depending on where you’ll operate.
Then you should register that name (to make sure it’s accepted) before creating business cards, logos, websites, and more. It’ll save you stress and likely a major headache later. Again, registration sites differ based on which regions and countries.
Finally, if you decide to register your name as a trademark, you’ll need to do so at this point as well. Your lawyer can guide you through this process. Keep in mind, there are additional costs associated with every registration you do.