The first step towards building any successful long term business is a great business idea. But a good idea is where the work starts, not stops. While a great idea may be essential, the intense legwork needed to turn that into a real business is substantial.

There is no one right way to transform an idea into a business, and new companies get started in all sorts of different ways. That said, if you have a good business idea and are looking to make it into something more, the tips below may offer some avenues to help you in your path.

Dig Into the Idea

There is no substitute for inspiration, but a good idea isn’t enough. Once you have an idea, spend time substantially digging into it. What will it look like in practice? Are there other businesses centered around similar ideas? What will you need to get started?

Questions like these can direct you towards filling in the gaps that will inevitably exist around the plan to transform your idea into reality. You will want to conduct substantial market research, talk to owners of similar businesses, make detailed financial projections, and inventory your own assets. This substantive work will help determine whether your idea is practicable.

Collect Your Research Into a Business Plan

All that background research should go towards filling in your business plan, which will be a blueprint for your business. It will also serve as a pitch to prospective lenders, so it needs to be thorough, well-sourced, and realistic. 

Among the most important sections is your request for funding, which should be the result of sound math estimating how you can realistically put your idea into practice. The better the plan, the more faith prospective lenders will have in your ability to create a thriving business.

Seek Out Funding

Ultimately, you will likely need a loan or loans to transform your business idea into a workable business. Carefully consider the myriad loan options you may have at your disposal.

Commercial term loans from a bank or credit union are a great place to start, but are hardly your only option. SBA loans are another, and alternative methods of funding — like crowdfunding — may be applicable to your situation. Take some time to determine plausible ways to seek out the financing you need.

Ultimately, through hard work, research, and a lot of planning, great ideas become healthy businesses all the time. The tips above may help you as you work through the process.