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Get practical, country-specific startup guides and downloadable PDF checklists for the UK, US and beyond. Clear steps. No fluff. Just what you need to move forward.

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Plain English, written for first-time founders
Practical, up-to-date country guides
UK and US checklists available
From idea to incorporation.
London Big Ben UK Guides
UK guides
Your first company starts with a plan.
  • Understand the requirements
  • Follow the right steps
  • Avoid common mistakes
  • Get to launch with confidence
Statue of Liberty US Guides
US guides
Clear steps.
Brighter futures.

Featured PDF Checklists

Step-by-step checklists to help you start with confidence. Practical, up-to-date and country-specific.

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UK Startup Checklist

UK Startup Checklist

A complete, step-by-step checklist to start your business in the UK.

£19
US Startup Checklist

US Startup Checklist

A practical checklist for US founders, from formation to taxes and beyond.

$19
Freelancer Launch Checklist

Freelancer Launch Checklist

Everything you need to start and grow your freelance business.

€15

Latest from the blog

Practical advice, real examples and step-by-step guides to help you on your journey.

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How to start a business in the UK
UNITED KINGDOM

How to start a business in the UK

A step-by-step guide to setting up your company, from choosing a structure to registering with Companies House.

 Sole trader vs LTD
BUSINESS BASICS

Sole trader vs LTD

What's the difference, and which is right for you? A practical comparison to help you decide.

 First steps for US founders
UNITED STATES

First steps for US founders

Tailored information from choosing a business structure to getting an EIN, here's what to do first in the US.

 What to do before you register a company
PLANNING

What to do before you register a company

Key steps to take before incorporation so you can start on the right foot.

Why choose FirstCompany?

We make starting a business simpler, clearer and more achievable.

Practical steps

Actionable guidance you can follow.

Country-specific

Tailored information for the UK, US and more.

No fluff

Straight to the point. No jargon.

Beginner-friendly

Written for first-time founders, not experts.